Pandora Introduces Carbon Footprint Labelling for Lab-Grown Diamonds
Pandora has introduced carbon footprint labelling for its lab-grown diamonds, adding what it describes as the “5th C” alongside the traditional diamond grading criteria of Cut, Colour, Clarity and Carat.
The new initiative provides customers with detailed information about the climate impact of each Pandora Lab-Grown Diamond, with carbon footprint data now displayed on product pages across pandora.net. The footprint covers emissions generated throughout the diamond crafting process, from raw material production to cutting and polishing.
According to Pandora, a one-carat lab-grown diamond produces 12.58 kg of CO2e emissions — around 90% lower than a mined diamond of the same size.
Berta de Pablos-Barbier, CEO of Pandora, said: “We believe the future is about making diamonds more accessible while giving customers clarity on what they’re buying. We craft our jewellery with sustainability in mind and by introducing the 5th C, we’re empowering consumers to make informed choices.”
Pandora stated that all of its lab-grown diamonds are produced using 100% renewable electricity and are set in jewellery made from 100% recycled silver and gold. The company stopped using mined diamonds in 2021 as part of its broader sustainability strategy.
The lower environmental impact means some products have a relatively modest carbon footprint. Pandora highlighted that a 14k gold Infinite ring featuring a one-carat lab-grown diamond has a carbon footprint comparable to that of a pair of jeans.
The company also confirmed that the carbon footprint calculations were conducted by external life-cycle assessment experts and independently verified by auditing firm EY. The methodology follows recognised ISO standards, including ISO 14067, ISO 14040 and ISO 14044.
Pandora said it plans to share its findings and methodology with other jewellery manufacturers in an effort to encourage greater transparency across the sector.
“As consumers demand greater knowledge of how their products are made, transparency is becoming a defining force for brands. We are happy to share our learnings with others,” added Berta de Pablos-Barbier.
Pandora Lab-Grown Diamonds are currently available in the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Denmark, with further international expansion planned.
