Gold is one of the world’s most valuable metals, serving as a cornerstone of economic stability and investment portfolios. However, not all gold is sourced ethically. Some gold originates from unregulated mines where child labor, human rights abuses, and environmental destruction are rampant. Today, both consumers and jewelers are increasingly concerned not just about the purity of gold but also about its origin.
To address this issue, the London Bullion Market Association (LBMA) has introduced the Gold Bar Integrity (GBI) standard, aimed at tracking the provenance of gold and promoting responsible mining practices. The GBI platform went live in February 2025, with the goal of integrating all refiners into the system by the end of the year.
ASGM and Unregulated Gold Mining
Artisanal and Small-Scale Gold Mining (ASGM) is a widespread practice, particularly in Africa, South America, and Asia. However, this type of mining often comes with severe ethical and environmental consequences:
- Child labor and human rights violations: In some unregulated mines, children and underpaid workers are subjected to hazardous conditions.
- Smuggling and money laundering: Unregulated gold can be processed and sold under well-known brand names, making its illegal origins undetectable.
- Environmental destruction: Mercury and cyanide are commonly used, contaminating water sources and causing deforestation.
Gold extracted from these sources can enter the supply chain, refined and sold under reputable brands, making it difficult for buyers to distinguish between ethically sourced and illicit gold.
What is the GBI Standard and Why Does It Matter?
The Gold Bar Integrity (GBI) standard, developed by LBMA and the World Gold Council, aims to enhance transparency in the gold supply chain and promote responsible mining practices.
Key Goals of the GBI Platform (Launched in February 2025):
✔️ Digitally track the origin of gold.
✔️ Secure data storage using blockchain technology.
✔️ Require refiners to prove compliance with responsible sourcing criteria.
✔️ Implement automated risk detection to prevent illicit gold trade.
✔️ Ensure all LBMA-certified refiners are integrated into the platform by the end of 2025.
By focusing not only on the physical purity of gold but also on its ethical sourcing, the GBI system enhances trust in the global gold trade.
Steps for Consumers and Jewelers to Support Ethical Gold Sourcing
For those looking to make informed choices about their gold purchases, consider these steps:
Choose Fairmined and Fairtrade Gold-certified products.
Buy from LBMA-certified refiners.
Support brands that prioritize supply chain transparency.
Work with manufacturers that comply with the GBI standard.
Conclusion: A More Transparent and Ethical Gold Market
The gold industry is entering a new era of transparency and sustainability. The GBI standard helps ensure that gold is traceable to ethical sources, reducing the risk of illegal gold entering the market.
By supporting refiners and manufacturers that adhere to GBI and responsible sourcing standards, both jewelers and consumers can contribute to a more ethical gold trade.
As MİDAS, we prioritize applications that support transparency and ethical mining principles in our supply chain. Systems like GBI enhance trust in the industry by ensuring not only the physical purity of gold but also its ethical integrity.
Want to learn more about ethical gold sourcing? Stay informed and choose responsibly!
Source: https://www.lbma.org.uk/articles/lbma-launches-gold-bar-integrity-gbi-database