A UK-based jewelry company, Cred, is leading the way in pioneering links with Colombia to set up a trade in ethical precious metals such as gold and platinum.

The company was founded by Greg Valerio, a campaigner for social justice and poverty aid, who works with fashion designers and advised independent jewellers on ethical practise, reports the BBC.

Cred has developed ties with Green Gold in Colombia and is now among the first jewellers to offer precious gold and platinum jewelry that is guaranteed to be ethically sound.

Fairtrade Foundation's Chris Davis told the news provider: "There is absolutely a need for greater support for artisan and small scale miners and the work Cred is doing with Green Gold is very pioneering."

Cred insists that the ethical grounding of its products does not lead to a compromise in design or quality, and the pieces are stunning in their contemporary forms, whether for a wedding or an engagement.

The collections are available from a limited number of retailers, with the flagship headquarters in Chichester, West Sussex.