I met this source online during the pandemic in 2021.  The owner sent out an email to crystal stores around the world introducing his company.  While most of the email talked about the quality and price of the stones, I was immediately drawn to his fair trade principles, which included legal contracts, health insurance and pension plans, safety standards, etc.  This kind of language is very rare!  I immediately contacted him and place an order.  We have had many conversations on What’s App about ethical issues in Peru and around the world.  I love speaking with him because he thinks like a scientist and an environmental activist.  So we don’t have to tread cautiously, we can speak boldly.

He asked if I thought the world would support an ethical crystal mine.  I told him I couldn’t speak for the world, but that I personally would.  A few weeks later I became a financial investor.  My first crystal order would include Black Tourmaline and Epidote that came from “my” ethical mine.