Posted by Sherri Caudell Brennan, Shopping and Fashion Market Expert
Choosing a socially-responsible diamond for your engagement ring or wedding band may not be the first thing on your mind, but it's nice to know that you can find style and substance all in one place. Purchasing responsible diamonds not only benefits the environment, it also benefits the people that work in diamond mines. I recently came across two jewelry companies that do just that!
Brilliant Earth has its own conflict-free guarantee that promises their diamonds originate from ethical and environmentally responsible sources, meaning free from violence and human rights abuses, and are produced with minimal environmental impact, turning to recycled gold, silver, and platinum. They track all their diamonds from mine to market and donate 5% of their profits to directly benefit local African communities harmed by the diamond industry.
I especially like their twist band above--such a great shape!
Photo courtesy of Ruff and Cut
Ruff and Cut also uses conflict-free diamonds. They consider themselves a socially-responsible jewelry company, using recycled metals in organic shapes to create stylish rings. They've even partnered with famous designers like Me & Ro, Tod Reed and Tracy Matthews Designs to create their collection. I love the organic cut of their diamonds; rings like the one above feel like one-of-a-kind creations.
The best part: 10% of the wholesale cost for each piece goes to nongovermental organizations (NGOs) working in Africa to improve the lives and livelihood of communities involved in metal and gemstone mining and jewelry manufacturing.
Think about checking these companies out when searching for your ring!
From: Meghan | 1/4/10 at 6:39 pm
You should add C5 to your list of jewelry retailers offering the best in conflict-free diamonds. Our diamonds are actually ethically sourced, which means less social and environmental impact than just conflict-free. http://www.C5company.com. You can also shop the largest selection of designer conflict-free jewelry at http://www.Sulusso.com.
From: Dawn | 1/5/10 at 5:10 pm
Don't forget about Canadian diamonds. They are completely conflict-free and are of extremely good quality!
From: p | 1/5/10 at 8:48 pm
I am so happy to read this, I was not going to use a stone for this reason, being of African Descent or go canadian. Thanks for the info.
From: Joe | 1/25/10 at 12:47 pm
Dawn, youre wrong. Canadian diamonds are not conflict free, that is a myth. Check this article:
http://www.diamonds.net/news/NewsItem.aspx?ArticleID=16235
From: Saori C. | 2/11/10 at 12:38 am
I'm glad to see that people are paying more attention to the environmental impact of their actions when it comes to mining and extracting. I'm hoping this mentality will rub off on jewelry manufacturers as well, and get folks to use more environmentally-friendly techniques and processes when they create their designs.