SMO_brochure

INTRODUCING SMO GOLD

A NEW GLOBAL STANDARD Traceability | Responsibility | Transparency

RESPONSIBLE GOLD AT SCALE

By choosing to work with Single Mine Origin Gold, makers, manufacturers and investors are taking a stand, adopting a new global standard for responsibly sourced gold, and accessing a community who are passionate about making mining a force for good.

SMO represents the future of the gold mining industry – offering full traceability, responsibility and transparency.

SMO GOLD

WHAT IS THE SMO COMMITMENT?

TRACEABILITY

RESPONSIBILITY

Before SMO, a tiny proportion of gold in the world

Gold mining can be a force for good and the World

was traceable, due to the nature of how it is mined,

Gold Council’s 51 Responsible Gold Mining Principles

refined and sold.

(RGMP’S), along with the Initiative for Responsible

The origin of SMO Gold and its segregated journey is fully traceable by way of a QR code and single batch number.

The Chain of Custody, f rom the mine to approved LBMA refinery, where it is refined in segregation under independent supervision, to the onward shipment to manufacturing partners globally, for each batch is externally audited.

Mining Assurance (IRMA) and International Council on Mining and Metals (ICMM) principles provide valuable f rameworks for best practice.

Member mines have a positive impact on the communities in which they operate, driving initiatives to address environmental, health, educational and social concerns.

An independent annual assurance audit ensures conformance.

TRANSPARENCY SMO only works with carefully selected member

SMO's creation of a robust ESG benchmark, both

mines, that adhere to the strictest ESG principles

globally and regionally transparently highlights

and undergo an annual assurance audit, compliant

the ESG performance of gold mines and reinforces

with internationally recognised responsibility

the belief that transparency acts as a catalyst for

standards.

continuous improvement across the entire sector.

SMO member mines are committed to transparency through the sharing of comprehensive, independently audited ESG data annually. Commentary on initiatives to improve environmental and social performance adds depth to this commitment.

SMO GOLD

RISING CONSCIOUS CONSUMERISM

WHERE DID MY GOLD COME FROM? SMO was founded to address the growing demand for gold with detailed provenance, and to highlight those mines adhering to the highest ESG standards.

Demand is growing, the opportunity is now.

■

Jewellery houses and brands require responsibly sourced gold, in volume, to satisfy conscious consumer demand

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Jewellery houses and brands want to assure customers that they are sourcing and manufacturing as responsibly as they possibly can and want to be able to show this.

“Now is the time to throw out the rulebook that has guided the industry for years, in legacy processes and legacy ways of working, and try the new thing - that’s hitting the gas on sustainability and diversity. This is a once-in-a-lifetime moment when we can rewrite the rulebook.”

Tyler Harris McKinsey, Associate Partner

CONSCIOUS CONSUMERISM Products making sustainability related claims are growing faster than than products that make no claims (McKinsey, 2023). Detailed provenance matters more and more.

CUSTOMER CONFIDENCE Each piece of finished jewellery is accompanied by a QR code, enabling consumers to trace their gold’s origins and to discover the positive environmental and social impacts of their purchase.

SMO GOLD

DRIVING INDUSTRY CHANGE

Through making with SMO Gold, you will be supporting

SMO member mines improve the lives of their workers,

local mining communities with education, healthcare

wider communities and their environments, showing

and alternative livelihoods, funding environmental

that gold mining can be a force for good.

projects, and helping to transform the gold industry.

Together, we are driving change within the entire

SMO member mines are committed to positive

industry and encouraging continuous improvement

initiatives in areas such as education, health, social

for mines to protect and promote their environments

and environment, investing in people of today and

and wider communities.

tomorrow.

“We can only thank Single Mine Origin who have actually provided us with a platform for the entire world to see what we are doing and why it matters.”

D jaria Traore Endeavour Mining, Executive VP, Supply Chain and ESG

SMO GOLD

THE SMO CHAIN OF CUSTODY

MINE

TRANSPORT

REFINERY

AUDIT AT REFINERY

Gold is extracted f rom

Secure segregated

Fully segregated refining

Independent auditors

SMO member mine,

transport f rom mine

process only using

conduct process

with independent

to refinery by renowned

approved LBMA certified

assurance and

reconciliation of mine

3PL partners

refineries

independently verify

output vs export

segregation through

volumes

refining process

SMO stands for Single Mine Origin Gold which is an initiative established to trace gold f rom responsible sources all the way through to the consumer. I passionately believe mining is a force for good and if done responsibly it can leave a positive impact on the places where it operates.”

Dan Betts speaking to New York Times Co-Founder, SMO

TRANSPORT

END OF JOURNEY

Secure segregated

Vault or Manufacturer

transport f rom refinery to vault or to manufacturers by renowned 3PL partners

SMO MEMBER MINES SPOTLIGHT

ITY MINE, CÔTE D’IVOIRE

KEY METRICS CHECKLIST Mercury-f ree production

✔

Conflict-f ree sourcing

✔

Child labour-f ree operations

✔

Operating in area of low water scarcity

✔

Low greenhouse gas emissions (2023: 0.45 tCO2-e/oz)

✔

Annual social investments $3.6M(2023: $11.25/oz)

✔

External assurance of conformance with RGMPs

✔

At Ity, excellence is not just a goal; it’s a way of

Endeavour Mining Corporation, the owner

life. Renowned for its unwavering commitment to

and operator of the Ity mine, is committed to

environmental, social, and governance principles,

upholding the highest social and environmental

Ity sets the gold standard for responsible mining.

standards. As a member of the World Gold Council,

From pioneering safety measures to fostering

Endeavour adheres to the Responsible Gold

vibrant communities and preserving nature’s

Mining Principles (RGMPs), ensuring sustainable

bounty, Ity’s dedication ensures that every ounce

mining practices that align with the United Nations

of gold mined enriches society while safeguarding

Sustainable Development Goals. Ity’s dedication

our planet for generations to come.

to local empowerment, community development,

The Ity mine stands as a beacon of sustainability and responsible mining practices in Côte d’Ivoire, with a legacy spanning over 25 years. Since its inception in 1991, Ity has been a major gold producer in the country, surpassing 1.4 million ounces of gold mined.

and environmental conservation sets it apart as a leader in responsible gold production.

SMO MEMBER MINES SPOTLIGHT

SABODALA-MASSAWA MINE, SENEGAL

KEY METRICS CHECKLIST Mercury-f ree production

✔

Conflict-f ree sourcing

✔

Child labour-f ree operations

✔

1,500-hectare ‘No Go Zone’ for wildlife protection

✔

Low greenhouse gas emissions (2023: 0.60 tCO2-e/oz)

✔

Annual social investments $2.2M (2023: $7.38/oz)

✔

External assurance of RGMPs conformance

✔

The Sabodala-Massawa mine is recognised for its

Endeavour Mining Corporation, the owner and operator

dedication to biodiversity and responsible mining

of the Sabodala-Massawa mine, is committed to

practices. Known for its environmental, social, and

upholding the highest social and environmental

governance (ESG) principles, Sabodala-Massawa leads

standards. As a member of the World Gold Council,

initiatives to protect the West Af rican Chimpanzee and

Endeavour adheres to the Responsible Gold Mining

other native wildlife, making biodiversity a cornerstone

Principles (RGMPs), ensuring sustainable mining

of its operations.

practices that align with the United Nations Sustainable

Located in Senegal, the Sabodala-Massawa mine is a pivotal asset of Endeavour Mining's portfolio.

The mine has been a significant gold producer and is distinguished by its commitment to environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and governance standards.

Development Goals. Sabodala-Massawa’s dedication to local empowerment, community development, and environmental conservation sets it apart as a leader in responsible gold production.

SMO MEMBER MINES SPOTLIGHT

BELLEVUE GOLD MINE, AUSTRALIA

KEY METRICS CHECKLIST Mercury-f ree production

✔

Conflict-f ree sourcing

✔

Child labour-f ree operations

✔

Renewable energy

✔

With a steadfast commitment to sustainability,

Bellevue Gold recently transitioned f rom a developer

Bellevue Gold is at the foref ront of responsible

to producer, with the first gold pour on 25 October

mining practices, striving to achieve net zero (Scope

2023. Bellevue Gold has cemented itself as one of

1 and Scope 2) greenhouse gas emissions by 2026.

the few gold mines in a Tier 1 jurisdiction, forecast to

This pioneering new mine is leading the way in how

produce >200,000 oz / year, with a headgrade of >5g/t.

sustainable practices can be embedded in how

Driven by a vision of sustainability, Bellevue Gold

to do business, setting a new benchmark for

has set an ambitious target to achieve net zero

decarbonisation in the mining sector.

(Scope 1 and Scope 2) greenhouse gas emissions

Nestled in the Northern goldfields region of Western Australia, the Bellevue Gold mine emerges as a beacon of promise in the realm of gold mining.

by 2026. This proactive approach aligns with global efforts to combat climate change and positions Bellevue Gold as a pioneer in responsible mining practices.

SMO GOLD

THE ESG BENCHMARK

RAISING THE BAR

CHAMPIONING RESPONSIBLE MINING

By collating and analysing disaggregated ESG

Single Mine Origin’s ambitious ESG benchmark

(Environmental, Social, and Governance) data f rom

systematically evaluates sustainability credentials

mining companies’ annual reports, sustainability

across the gold mining sector. By introducing a

reports, and other publicly available sources, the

dedicated ESG values-based benchmark, with metrics

SMO ESG Benchmark offers ground-breaking

reported annually, SMO is increasing transparency

insights into the gold industry’s responsible mining

and accountability in the industry.

credentials. The benchmark is hosted and curated

by Virtua Research, a financial services database company with over ten years’ experience providing financial and operational data for leading companies in the precious metals and mining space.

The Responsible Mining Index's 2022 report highlighted a concerning trend. The majority of the 250 assessed sites, spanning 53 countries, failed to demonstrate public reporting or engagement with communities and workers on basic ESG risk factors and public interest issues.

SMO addresses this gap by collating and analysing

The SMO ESG Benchmark acts as a catalyst

disaggregated ESG data against fundamental ESG

for continuous improvement across the sector.

themes. These themes are mapped back to the UN

By consistently raising the bar and fostering

Sustainable Development Goals (SDG's) and relevant

competition based on responsible practices,

SASB and GRI standards, providing a comprehensive

SMO aims to inspire positive change, contributing

overview of each mine’s sustainability performance.

to the overall betterment of the gold mining

The SMO ESG Benchmark serves as a critical tool for assessing how SMO-accredited mines compare with other gold mines, both regionally and globally, ensuring that its members stand at the foref ront of responsible mining practices.

industry.

SMO GOLD

THE SMO FOUNDATION

The SMO Foundation is a philanthropic initiative

We aim to elevate environmental conservation, social

established by Single Mine Origin Limited (SMO) to

equity, and healthcare access in these regions and will

support the mining communities.

focus on the following key areas:

Our mission is to enrich & empower the lives of all, within wider communities of mining operation, with

ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION

the foundation complementing the already

Working with SMO member mines to implement

world-class ESG initiatives undertaken by SMO

projects aimed at preserving biodiversity, mitigating

member mines.

climate change, and promoting sustainable land use.

By strategically directing resources and fostering partnerships, we aim to enhance and amplify the transformative effects of these existing endeavours, ensuring a more sustainable and equitable future for all.

Amplification of existing conservation efforts will foster a more resilient ecosystem and minimise environmental impacts.

SOCIAL EMPOWERMENT

FUNDRAISING & SUPPORT

Supporting initiatives that promote gender equality,

The SMO Foundation welcomes donations f rom

access to education and healthcare, economic

individuals, organisations, and businesses committed to

empowerment and social inclusion in the wider mining

making a positive difference for mining communities.

communities. Through targeted interventions and strategic partnerships, we aim to enhance the well-being and increase opportunities for those in mining areas.

HEALTHCARE ACCESS Improving access to quality healthcare services will be a cornerstone of our work. Collaborating with SMO member mines and healthcare organisations, we seek to address health disparities & promote preventive care to enhance overall well-being.

Community Engagement:

By supporting the foundation, donors will not only be contributing to the existing ESG initiatives of SMO member mines, but amplifying their positive impact.

Together, we can make a lasting difference and contribute to building a more sustainable and equitable future for all.

SMO GOLD

REASONS TO MAKE WITH SMO GOLD

FULLY TRACEABLE With all SMO selected mines operating to the

GUARANTEED Our mines guarantee to mine legally, in conflict-f ree

highest ESG standards, customers can learn about

areas, without any human violations

the positive impact the mine has on local communi-

AVAILABILITY

ties through a QR code

Responsibly sourced f rom large corporate mining

AUDITED

operations with deep reserves

Transparent data to demonstrate environmental

AFFORDABILITY

social, health and cultural support for communities

Economies of scale keep premiums to a minimum

100% MERCURY FREE

OFFER

Clean mining extraction processes, avoiding

We offer both depth and breadth in colours, alloys

mercury poisoning

and forms, and can supply specific bespoke

FREE FROM

requirements

Segregated journey ensures that no recycled gold of unknown provenance or Russian gold is present

SMO GOLD

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is SMO Gold?

Does SMO Gold cost more?

SMO stands for Single Mine Origin. We offer

By working with corporate mines, SMO is able

responsibly sourced gold to the jewellery and

to achieve economies of scale and keep costs

investment sectors.

to an absolute minimum. There are costs

Our gold comes f rom SMO approved mines which means they have been selected as member mines. These mines process to the highest possible global standards and they undergo annual independent assurance.

associated with keeping SMO Gold segregated throughout the supply chain and independently auditing this segregation to ensure the chain of custody is robust, however, for most products, there is very little extra cost to jewellers or investors to work with SMO Gold as opposed to other gold.

How does SMO differ f rom others?

Where did my SMO Gold come f rom?

Fairtrade and Fairmined gold are both great

All SMO Gold is presented with a batch

responsible initiatives working within the

number and a QR code that allows you to trace

artisanal sector. Similarly, recycled gold offers

your gold back to the member mine it came

a responsible alternative. However, the

f rom. Simply scan the code or visit our website

majority of gold consumption is derived f rom

and trace your gold by entering the batch

large-scale corporate mining and SMO targets

number, which will reveal the name of the

this sector to ensure metals are sourced f rom

SMO member mine, f rom where your gold was

the best and most progressive mines, and are

sourced.

fully traceable, affordable and available. For

You can read about the mine and the social

SMO, we are driving positive change within the gold mining industry.

and Environmental initiatives taking place local to the mine.

SMO GOLD

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How is SMO Gold traceable?

SMO Gold is kept separate f rom all other material through the entire supply chain, f rom mine to finished product. We work with SMO approved mines (member mines), world-class logistics partners and LBMA refiners to ensure the integrity of this chain of custody.

Unlike most metal, which is comingled with material f rom multiple sources at the point of refining, SMO is refined in segregated batches in a process independently overseen by

Is SMO Gold available in all alloys and colours?

Yes. We offer a comprehensive range of SMO Gold alloys. We can also manufacture custom alloys to specific customer requirements.

Is there a special SMO hallmark?

Yes. All assay offices can apply the hallmark.

You will need to be registered on the 'approved SMO' list at your chosen assay office.

Do SMO member mines use Mercury ?

auditors - Bureau Veritas, the leader in

Never. SMO member mines are 100% mercury

testing, inspection and certification.

f ree in their extraction process.

SMO GOLD

WHAT EVERYONE’S SAYING

VANITY FAIR

FINANCIAL TIMES

“Boodles commitment to using SMO Gold is indicative

"Charlie and Dan Betts are brothers on a mission: to

of a luxury sector that is evolving at a rapid pace

improve responsible sourcing in the jewellery sector, by

and adding compassion as well as aesthetics,

changing the mining industry. Through their Single Mine

integrity and profits to the list of essential corporate

Origin brand, the two Britons aim to provide a mass-

characteristics. By partnering with an innovative

market service that addresses the traceability of gold."

mining company, the firm has capitalised on the advantage of flexibility that family businesses have over listed companies in terms of operationalising ideas.”

VOGUE BUSINESS “Several jewellery houses, f rom independent designers such as the UK’s Stephen Webster and Brazilian born Fernando Jorge, to big international names such as Messika and Bulgari, are transitioning to 100% traceable gold. A new industry standard called Single Mine Origin (SMO), which first launched in 2018, is gaining traction.”

SATURDAY TELEGRAPH

GEORDIE WAINWRIGHT , BOODLES

“Having been running a family business in the

“More and more we are finding our customers love

jewellery industry for over a quarter of a millennium,

the fact that our gold is SMO, and often this makes

spanning nine generations, I think our outlook is

an impact on their buying decision.”

naturally very long term. I think we brought this approach into the mining sphere as well by trying to consider the impact of our activities on communities and environments well beyond the lifespan of a single mine. SMO’s vision is to drive the jewellery and mining industries toward ever better accountability and sustainability over the long term.”

Charlie Betts

FERNANDO JORGE, SPEAKING TO VANITY FAIR “I was really pleased to see how local people are benefiting f rom the mine, being employed by the mine, given choices as to how things are done.”

SMO GOLD

ORIGINS OF SMO GOLD Single Mine Origin was founded in 2017 by Dan and

It quickly became apparent that barely any of the

Charlie Betts, in response to a growing demand for

world’s gold supply is fully traceable, due to the

responsibly sourced gold.

nature of how it is mined, refined and sold.

While alternatives such as Fair Trade, Fairmined and recycled gold have existed for some time, there are limitations due to artisan production, pricing premiums and small quantities, all insufficient to satisfy the growing global demands of conscious consumerism. The provenance of gold came into question, amongst a rising consciousness of the

Without this traceability, there was little accountability, and a lack of assurance as to the social and environmental standards being upheld.

For those that were mining responsibly and with transparency, a coming together was needed, to unite and connect them to the growing demands of conscious consumerism.

social and environmental impact of the mining

In 2017, Hummingbird Resources, together with

industry.

Betts Metals, formed “Single Mine Origin” offering

A new global standard of scalable responsibly sourced gold was required. In 2012, in search of a solution, Dan Betts left the family business, concentrating solely on Hummingbird Resources,

gold that was not only responsibly sourced and mined with transparency, but fully traceable to a single mine, with reserves. This was an industry first for the jewellery and investment sectors.

a gold exploration business previously set up with

In 2024 Hummingbird Resources fully divested and

his father, Stephen Betts.

SMO is solely owned by the Betts Group, and Charlie Betts is the Managing Director.

ORIGINS OF SMO GOLD

Dan Betts

Charlie Betts

Co-Founder

Co-Founder and Managing Director

Dan Betts is Executive Chairman of Hummingbird

Charlie Betts represents the ninth consecutive

Resources PLC; an AIM-listed multi-asset gold

generation of the Betts family to manage Betts Group;

company. Dan is actively engaged with the

a business focusing on refining precious metals and

challenges of developing socially and environmentally

manufacturing jewellery and investment products.

responsible gold mines, adhering to internationally

Charlie is also the managing director of SMO.

recognised responsibility standards and ensuring such initiatives are not only beneficial to their host communities, but continuously improving and evolving.

Charlie has experienced first-hand the recent surge in consumer engagement with responsible sourcing in the jewellery industry. He has expert understanding of the challenges faced by jewellers in reliably and cost-effectively acquiring materials with detailed provenance.

© SMO 2025

A NEW GLOBAL STANDARD Traceability | Responsibility | Transparency singlemineorigin.com

Enquiries: info@singlemineorigin.com