09/10/2026
Do you know who cuts your gemstones, or what conditions they were working in? These are important questions to ask because knowing the origin is only part of understanding a gem’s journey.
These photos show what could be happening behind the scenes if you’re not asking these questions. A workspace without proper personal protective equipment, ventilation, silica dust controls, or cutters working in makeshift spaces that lack basic safety measures. In some cases, even children may be exposed to hazardous working conditions.
When gemstones are cut, silica dust can settle on skin and become airborne. Prolonged exposure can cause silicosis, an incurable lung disease, that can be prevented through proper precautions and safer working conditions.
This is why our 𝘾𝙪𝙩𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙏𝙤𝙬𝙖𝙧𝙙 𝘾𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙜𝙚 fundraising raffle supports the Peoples Training & Research Centre (PTRC) and its work to address and prevent silicosis, improve worker safety, and support affected workers, families, and communities.
Every $25 raffle ticket will be donated PTRC’s work.
Link in bio.