It’s shopping season. But before you head out to the jeweler, there are a few things that you should consider before making your purchase. There is absolutely nothing wrong with getting the special woman in your life something shiny for the holidays. The key is to ensure that your gift isn’t provided at the expense of others.
From the Eiros collection at Blue Nile
Selecting conflict-free diamonds is a good place to start. Why?
- Conflict diamonds promote a cycle of violence, warfare, and lawlessness in some of the world’s most pillaged and impoverished countries.
- Miners are often children who are coerced (either by desperate situation or by cruel adults) to descend miles into the earth without proper ventilation, supplies, emergency evacuation plans, or anything to protect them.
- These children or their families are not paid a living wage, often less than a dollar day.
- Buying a blood diamond won’t save you money. Costs are generally the same with the added price of blood on your hands. Yeah, I just went there.
- There is an array of gorgeous stones that weren’t mined by children! Why not buy those?
Blood diamonds suck. I shouldn’t need an eloquent way to ask you not to support psychotic businessmen that exploit children and families who are in precarious situations. The end.
From the Ikuma collection, at Ben Ridge.
You agree? Excellent. Here are a few jewelers that distribute no-conflict diamonds and other stones. This isn’t an exhaustive list, and some distributors who claim to sell certified diamonds are deceptive. The important thing is to try to do what is right to the best of your ability.
Brilliant Earth is one of the most prominent, conflict-free jewelers on the market. Their stones are of ethical origins and they use recycled metals. They also donate 5% of their profits to communities that have been effected by unethical mining and manufacturing practices. Check out their mission here.
Another option is Blue Nile, a jewelry company that has received numerous accolades for their quality products and services. Their stones are ethically mined throughout the world. I also really appreciated their resource center (about the 4Cs, certifications, and such).
Ikuma diamonds are mined just north of us in Canada, eh! They’re available through Ben Ridge, a company that has been around for over a century. In 2000, the company began an overhaul to embrace more ethical and conscious practices. Their diamonds are environmentally sustainable and AGS certified.
From the Embrace Collection, at Diamond in the Rough
For a step outside of the ordinary, consider Diamond in the Rough, which specializes in raw, conflict-free diamonds. These stone are excellent for the unconventional bride, or the gal who loves the unexpected. The company began in 2005 and has skyrocketed, pleasing clients with their unique offerings.
Know of other conflict-free jewelers and resources? Let me know and I’ll add it to this post!