Mineral Studio  Use granite dust generated by the stone extraction and cutting industry, which would otherwise be destined for landfill, to create unique and sustainable alternative ceramic pieces. The goal is to repurpose unused materials from industrial processes into a new raw material.

The supply of residual dust includes granite, glass, and marble. Using these inert second-hand materials, Studio Minéral creates virtually unbreakable porcelain pieces. If a piece gets damaged, the jewelry is dismantlable and repairable. All actions are carefully considered to reduce the company's ecological footprint, aligning with its environmental values.

However, using recycled materials poses a significant challenge: unpredictable availability. A synergy with companies must be established to develop a resilient infrastructure for a sustainable supply chain. This business network requires increased cooperation and collaboration among the various actors in the supply chain. Quebec facilities may not always have the capacity to process the residual materials on a large scale.

Studio Minéral has been supported in its journey by the CTTEI (Center for Technology Transfer in Industrial Ecology), based in Sorel-Tracy, which aims to assist companies in their research and development of innovative technologies in industrial ecology.

Studio Mineral's strategy is to keep its entire manufacturing process in-house, giving it control over its inputs and outputs. Plaster molds, after wear and tear, are sent to the city's recycling center. Product packaging is done without extravagance, using reusable or recyclable components. Not only is the complete life cycle of the product analyzed to minimize its environmental footprint, but also its locally focused production network.

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Through the creation of high-perceived-value necklaces made from underutilized materials, Studio Minéral has developed its expertise. Future goals include sourcing primarily local materials from residual sources. The idea of starting a collection using clay collected from nature is being planned for upcoming projects, and the founder has her sights set on integrating other residual materials.

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The distribution of this article is made possible by the contribution of Détail Québec, the retail sectoral workforce committee.