Policies & IssuesMay 12, 2021
WJA Launches Responsible Sourcing, Sustainability Education FundSourcingMay 27, 2021
WJA Foundation to Air Documentary, Director Q&A on Gold Mining
“River of Gold” covers destructive and illegal gold mining in the Amazon.
One of the Women’s Jewelry Association Foundation goals is to strengthen education around sustainability and responsible sourcing.
New York—A new documentary charts the destructiveness of gold mining in the Amazon, and the Women’s Jewelry Association Foundation is making it available to the industry.
On June 3, the WJA Foundation will host a free, private online screening of “River of Gold.”
The film shows how illegal gold mining creates “apocalyptic destruction” of the Amazon rainforest. The documentary’s trailer can be viewed online.
In addition to the foundation, Amazon Aid Foundation and Ethical Metalsmiths are presenting the film.
Afterward, the screening will turn to a livestream Q&A with “River of Gold” Co-Director Sarah duPont; WJA Foundation President Brandee Dallow; sustainable business strategist Christina Miller; and Pulitzer Prize-winning reporter and co-author of the book “Dirty Gold,” Nicholas Nehamas.
They’ll touch on mining in the Amazon, opportunities for responsible sourcing and how to create positive industry change.
The WJA Foundation was created as a separate charitable organization from WJA to promote education and business opportunities for women in the industry to reach their full potential. The foundation recently announced a specific Sustainability Education Fund.
Related stories will be right here …
On June 3, the WJA Foundation will host a free, private online screening of “River of Gold.”
The film shows how illegal gold mining creates “apocalyptic destruction” of the Amazon rainforest. The documentary’s trailer can be viewed online.
In addition to the foundation, Amazon Aid Foundation and Ethical Metalsmiths are presenting the film.
Afterward, the screening will turn to a livestream Q&A with “River of Gold” Co-Director Sarah duPont; WJA Foundation President Brandee Dallow; sustainable business strategist Christina Miller; and Pulitzer Prize-winning reporter and co-author of the book “Dirty Gold,” Nicholas Nehamas.
They’ll touch on mining in the Amazon, opportunities for responsible sourcing and how to create positive industry change.
The WJA Foundation was created as a separate charitable organization from WJA to promote education and business opportunities for women in the industry to reach their full potential. The foundation recently announced a specific Sustainability Education Fund.
Amazon Aid Foundation, meanwhile, spurs action to protect the Amazon rainforest through various mediums, including science, multimedia and film. “River of Gold” co-director duPont is the founder of Amazon Aid Foundation.
“Our aim with ‘River of Gold’ is to show the impact of illicit and unregulated gold mining in order to inspire change,” she said.
“It’s only through a collaborative process with incredible organizations like WJA Foundation and Ethical Metalsmiths that industry transformation will happen. We are honored to present the film at this special event.”
Ethical Metalsmiths connects and educates buyers, jewelers, designers, and suppliers united by a desire for responsible sourcing opportunities. The organization will donate five copies of “Dirty Gold” to five film screening attendees.
Registration is free and can be done online.
WJA Executive Director Jennifer Markas commented, “WJA Foundation is pleased to kick-off our Responsible Sourcing and Sustainability Education Fund with a private free screening of ‘River of Gold.’
“We are thrilled to partner with leading organizations, including Amazon Aid Foundation and Ethical Metalsmiths, to provide WJA members with access to educational materials, insights and resources on responsible sourcing practices. A portion of donations from this event will go directly toward funding education scholarships to advance best practices in our industry.”
“Our aim with ‘River of Gold’ is to show the impact of illicit and unregulated gold mining in order to inspire change,” she said.
“It’s only through a collaborative process with incredible organizations like WJA Foundation and Ethical Metalsmiths that industry transformation will happen. We are honored to present the film at this special event.”
Ethical Metalsmiths connects and educates buyers, jewelers, designers, and suppliers united by a desire for responsible sourcing opportunities. The organization will donate five copies of “Dirty Gold” to five film screening attendees.
Registration is free and can be done online.
WJA Executive Director Jennifer Markas commented, “WJA Foundation is pleased to kick-off our Responsible Sourcing and Sustainability Education Fund with a private free screening of ‘River of Gold.’
“We are thrilled to partner with leading organizations, including Amazon Aid Foundation and Ethical Metalsmiths, to provide WJA members with access to educational materials, insights and resources on responsible sourcing practices. A portion of donations from this event will go directly toward funding education scholarships to advance best practices in our industry.”
More on Sourcing
The Latest
PodcastsApr 15, 2026
Episode 4: The Natural Diamond DilemmaSally Morrison and Mark Klein discuss De Beers’ first beacon in 16 years and the mistake the industry made with lab-grown diamonds.
MajorsApr 15, 2026
Spark Creations’ Randy McKenzie Dies at 72 McKenzie spent 45 years with Spark Creations and is remembered for being kind, dedicated, and hardworking.
WatchesApr 15, 2026
These Are the New Rolex Watches for 2026Rolex focused exclusively on the Oyster Perpetual this year, as the model is celebrating its 100th anniversary.
Brought to you by
Discover Timeless Treasures: A Showcase of Antique Jewelry & Timepieces in Las VegasGain access to the most exclusive and coveted antique pieces from trusted dealers during Las Vegas Jewelry Week.
FinancialsApr 15, 2026
Kering’s Jewelry Shines in Q1, Gucci’s Struggle ContinuesThe luxury giant discussed the Middle East conflict and its transformation plans, hinting at a stronger jewelry presence in North America.
Weekly QuizApr 09, 2026
This Week’s QuizTest your jewelry news knowledge by answering these questions.
TechnologyApr 15, 2026
This Jewelry Brand’s Video Series Is Up for a Webby Award“Diamond Divas,” a social media reality series by Shahla Karimi Jewelry, is nominated in the “Best Social: Fashion & Beauty” category.
FinancialsApr 14, 2026
LVMH’s Q1 Sales Sink 6% Amid Middle East ConflictPlus, how Saks Global’s bankruptcy affected the luxury giant’s first quarter.
Brought to you by
Las Vegas Antique Jewelry & Watch Show: Showcasing the Most Collectible Merchandise from Across the GlobeGain access to the most exclusive and coveted antique pieces from trusted dealers during Las Vegas Jewelry Week.
SourcingApr 14, 2026
International Jade Summit to Return to MontereyPresented by Mason-Kay Jade, the summit, in its second year, will again be held during the Monterey Bay Jade Festival.
Events & AwardsApr 14, 2026
CBG Releases Details for Las Vegas ShowThe group has announced its lineup of speakers and a new “Rising Stars” pavilion.
CollectionsApr 13, 2026
Uniform Object’s New Jewelry Collection Centers on the ‘Carbon Form’The “Carbon Form” collection explores the contrast between high and low materials, using rubber cord alongside 18-karat gold and gemstones.
Events & AwardsApr 13, 2026
JA Accepting 2026 Impact Initiative ApplicationsThe program provides essential funding to organizations for projects that enhance the jewelry industry.
Events & AwardsApr 13, 2026
Couture Announces New Show in MiamiThe jewelry trade show is launching its first open-to-the-public event in Coconut Grove this November.
CrimeApr 13, 2026
JSA Offers Reward in Oregon Jewelry Store Armed RobberyJSA is seeking information about the gunpoint robbery of a Kay Jewelers location in Oregon’s Washington Square Mall.
WatchesApr 10, 2026
These Watches Have Increased in Value the Most Since 2018, Says Chrono24The top-performing watch models may be surprising, with Rolex and several popular pandemic-era picks notably absent from the top 20.
CollectionsApr 10, 2026
Ophelia Eve’s Toggle Pendant Holds Your SecretsThe “Scroll” toggle pendant, our Piece of the Week, opens to reveal a hidden message, mantra, or love letter written on washi paper.
ColumnistsApr 09, 2026
Jewelry Demand Isn’t Stronger, Prices Are Just Higher Jewelers who misinterpret the state of the jewelry market risk employing the wrong retail strategy, cautions columnist Sherry Smith.
MajorsApr 09, 2026
Tiffany & Co. Promotes Nathalie Verdeille to SVP, Chief Artistic OfficerIn her newly expanded role, she will continue to oversee the jewelry category, as well as watches, home, and accessories.
WatchesApr 09, 2026
Jacob & Co. Rolls Out Its Sequel to ‘The Godfather’ Musical Watch“The Godfather II” watch plays two melodies from the mob film’s score, “The Godfather’s Waltz” and “The Godfather Love Theme.”
Events & AwardsApr 09, 2026
JCK Announces Jesse Itzler as 2026 Keynote SpeakerOrganizers have also introduced the new JCK Talks Signature Series, as well as an offering of watch-focused workshops and lectures.
SourcingApr 09, 2026
AGA To Honor ‘Quiet Leadership’ With New AwardThe Alan Hodgkinson Medal recognizes gemologists who are consistently generous with their time and expertise.
WatchesApr 09, 2026
Oris Names New CEO, CFOThe Swiss watchmaker is changing up its executive leadership team as part of a restructuring.
CollectionsApr 08, 2026
Hearts On Fire Celebrates 30 Years By Asking a QuestionThe “What’s Your Signature?” campaign invites women to think about how they see themselves.
SourcingApr 08, 2026
Sale of 42-Carat Blue Diamond Gives Petra a Boost in Q3The big diamond’s sale added to the company’s revenue though the market remains “challenging” overall, particularly for smaller goods.
Events & AwardsApr 08, 2026
AGS Confluence Returns with AI, Sustainability SessionsRob Bates of The Jewelry Wire will also moderate a panel on the state of the jewelry industry during the virtual event.
Events & AwardsApr 08, 2026
TJS to Honor 2 Longtime Former Stuller EmployeesThe Jewelry Symposium will honor two industry veterans with lifetime achievement awards at its upcoming May event.
TrendsApr 08, 2026
Amanda’s Style File: April’s Brilliant Birthstone With their durability, brilliance, and beauty, diamonds are the perfect stone for everyday birthstone jewelry.
