Merrell Casting Expands Ethical Gold Offering with Introduction of Single Mine Origin Gold

28 Oct 2025

Merrell Casting, the sister company of Hockley Mint, is proud to announce the introduction of Single Mine Origin (SMO) gold as part of its commitment to offering responsibly sourced and ethical metals for the jewellery industry. This addition strengthens Merrell Casting’s portfolio of metal choices, which already includes Fairtrade gold, Fairmined gold, and bespoke alloys such as green gold and champagne gold.

SMO gold is fully traceable back to a single responsible mine - from the mine site all the way through refining, processing, and delivery - ensuring not only the highest standards of environmental stewardship but also positive social and economic impact for the communities where it is mined. This aligns with Hockley Mint’s and Merrell Casting’s shared belief that jewellery should be made with respect for people and our environment.

Every batch is segregated and audited via an independent chain of custody and is delivered with its own unique QR code, ensuring it never gets mixed with gold from other sources.

SMO member mines follow internationally recognised responsibility standards and share independently audited sustainability reports each year, along with quarterly updates on how they are improving their environmental and social practices.

In addition, Merrell Casting continues to support two respected ethical gold schemes: Fairtrade Gold and Fairmined Gold. Fairtrade Gold ensures that artisanal and small-scale miners receive a fair price, work under safer conditions, and contribute to environmental and social development in their communities. Fairmined Gold is an assurance label that certifies gold mined by organised artisanal and small-scale mining associations which meet rigorous social, environmental, and organisational standards.

Merrell Casting ensures that all gold waste and offcuts are fed right back into production and therefore its gold is 100% repurposed, minimising raw extraction and closing the loop on the production process.

Gary Wroe, managing director at Hockley Mint says,

"Adding SMO to the portfolio of metals we supply ensures we are offering the full range of choice for our clients. The company has been at the forefront of ensuring the respected gold schemes are accessible to all."

The introduction of SMO gold builds on the wider sustainability efforts of Hockley Mint and Merrell Casting. The company has installed over 500 solar panels across its factory roof, generating renewable energy that directly powers production. This solar farm initiative has already delivered measurable results, including:

• Equivalent of 146 trees planted.
• 60,000 litres of rainwater harvested.
• 105 tonnes of standard coal saved.
• 262 tonnes of CO2 emissions saved.

These milestones demonstrate Merrell Casting’s dedication to minimising environmental impact while maintaining the highest quality of British jewellery manufacturing.

By expanding its ethical metals range, Merrell Casting empowers jewellers, designers, and retailers to offer their customers greater choice in sustainable luxury. Whether choosing SMO gold, Fairtrade, Fairmined, or bespoke alloys, Merrell Casting ensures that every piece of jewellery tells a story of responsibility, traceability, and transparency.

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Source: Merrell Casting