When Beyoncé told dudes the world over that they should have put a ring on it, she didn’t specify what kind, but knowing Bey, I bet she’d suggest getting one that’s conflict-free and environmentally conscious. Whether you’re looking for a ring that will signify your betrothal, buying a fancy bauble for yourself, or simply dropping hints to a loved one about what you might want for V-day, feeling good about what a ring represents is just as important as the cut, the setting, and the size. From conflict-free diamonds to non-traditional stones and vintage pieces, there are a number of ways to score a high-end ring you can be proud to rock.
In order to understand why you’d want an ethically sourced ring, it’s important to know the potential consequences that come from choosing one that isn’t. According to the New York Times, conflict diamonds “refer to gems that have been used by rebel groups to pay for wars that have killed and displaced millions of people in Africa, the source of an estimated 65 percent of the world’s diamonds.” In 2007, Amnesty International estimated that 3.7 million people had died as the result of conflicts fueled by diamonds. And though a set of tracking regulations known as the Kimberly Process was implemented in 2003, an outdated definition of “conflict” has rendered its effects unreliable according to the lobby group Global Witness. In a 2012 New York Times article, the group asserted that, “consumers could still not be sure where their diamonds came from, or whether they were financing armed violence or abusive regimes.”
Human rights violations aren’t the only ethical concern when it comes to buying luxe jewelry. According to the Washington Post, “the mining watchdog group Earthworks estimates that a standard 18-karat wedding band leaves behind 20 tons of ore and waste rock.” Not only does this process guzzle up a ton of energy, but gathering gold and other precious metals can also lead to toxic mine drainage which wreaks havoc on the environment. Not necessarily what you want to be reminded of when admiring that sparkling number on your appendage.
Luckily, quite a few jewelers are working hard to avoid these detrimental affects. “It didn’t seem right that a ring meant to last a lifetime would have human and environmental costs that last for generations,” says Kristin Coffin, who uses recycled gold, conflict-free diamonds, and alternative gemstones to create her simple, stunning, nature-inspired pieces. Valerie Kasinskas of VK Designs and Tamara McFarland of McFarland Designs do the same, and also donate five percent of their sales to Earthworks “No Dirty Gold” campaign and a variety of charities, respectively. “The stones I work with fall into three categories,” says McFarland. “Lab-created stones, stones that are mined and cut in the US, and stones obtained from outside the US through channels that can be verified to be promoting environmental health, worker safety, and local communities.”
The most popular conflict-free and eco-friendly alternative to diamond is a stone called Moissanite. One look at its brilliant, sparkly façade makes it easy to see why. McFarland explains that the gemstone, which was originally discovered in a fallen meteorite but is now produced in laboratories right here on Earth, has “2.4 times the fire of diamond and 10 percent more brilliance and luster.”

Lavender diamond bezel set in a white gold octagonal setting topped with a brilliant trillion cut sapphire.
Amethyst, ruby, sapphire, and citrine are just a few of the colored stones that can be sourced according to fair trade principles, and many of these stones can be created in a lab, which bypasses the worker- and environmental-exploitation problems found in the mining industry altogether. “Lab-created stones have a significantly smaller carbon footprint than even the most ethically sourced mined stones,” McFarland points out.
Avoiding new materials altogether is another route ring-shoppers with ethical and environmental concerns can take. Buying a vintage piece is “reusing and recycling in its simplest form,” says Erin of Addy’s Vintage who has a gorgeous collection of old-European-cut diamonds and Art Deco styles. Gold Adore’s Gillian Griffiths agrees: “No new resources are expended and no new chemicals are added to our environment.” Plus, she says, vintage diamonds are guaranteed to be conflict-free since the practice of using diamond wealth to fund wars began in the early 1990s.
Buying vintage has appeal outside of simple ethics as well. “It’s like buying a beautiful snapshot from a specific time period,” says Somewhere in Time’s Kathryn. “Each ring has its own personality and uniqueness.”
The advantages of buying an ethical, eco-conscious ring can hold even more weight when a wedding is involved. “Marriage is about lasting love, happiness, dedication, and problem-solving,” says Coffin. “What better way to show your commitment than through rings which exemplify a sustainable and loving future?”
5 Featured Comments
Karen Brown from blainedesign said 8 years ago Featured
This is a beautifully researched piece on an important topic. I have also seen stone-free rings of great beauty and personal meaning. A few years ago, a couple I knew commissioned an exquisitely crafted engagement ring made with a tiny fragment of the groom's family's fourth-generation heirloom china. It cost them only a couple of hundred dollars, but was more "precious" than anything they could have purchased.
Emily and Amy from matesrubbish said 8 years ago Featured
what a great article, and what perfect timing! i've spent the past month scouring for the perfect conflict-free ring for my big day, and honestly, my choices are endless. there are so many amazing rings out there that we can purchase guilt-free! it's heartwarming to know that many have switched from salivating over huge chunks of conflict diamonds to wanting something that is both meaningful and ethical.
shannakeaton from AntebellumVintage said 8 years ago Featured
My great grandmother's ring was just a simple gold band, it was so beautiful and worn from the many years she wore it. My sister has a simple gold band as well to honor her. I think sentimentality is so much more important than a flashy stone. Especially if that stone comes at a cost. What a wonderful article! Thank you for sharing! I'll be keeping my eye out for a beautiful vintage ring.
Maddie from labellejewel said 8 years ago Featured
Interesting article, Lisa, and one that is close to my heart. As Keats said "a thing of beauty is a joy forever" and that is especially true with a special piece of jewelry. I have always been an advocate of genuine fine antique and vintage jewelry. Although it is getting harder to find as families keep their heirloom jewelry to pass on to the next generations. I like to own jewelry that was treasured by someone in the past. The care and skill of the craftsmen who hand-crafted these lovely designs is obvious when you look at an antique ring or pendant. As you mentioned, all of the older European or mine cut diamonds were conflict free, and it's a wonderful idea to recycle them, reducing environmental waste. Personally, I would not choose lab-created stones, as I like to know that what I am wearing is precious and formed under the earth thousands of years ago.
Sara Schroeder from ToosDetectiveAgency said 8 years ago Featured
I love my engagement ring more than I thought I would. We found it in an antique store in New Orleans, which jives with my recycling values. It's silver (I don't like gold), topaz, and - I just learned the other day when we took it to be sized - Moissanite. I love that this ring has a history, didn't require any additional resources, is unique, and (the best part!) cost $125.
216 comments
Megan from MegansMenagerie said 8 years ago
Thanks for sharing! Great educational post :)
Genise Park from genisepark said 8 years ago
This super good information, so many beautiful choices that are Eco friendly!
Chris Evans from Plastidermy said 8 years ago
Definitely the way to go!
Coco Jukz from JukzJewels said 8 years ago
Very informative....thank you
Karen Brown from blainedesign said 8 years ago Featured
This is a beautifully researched piece on an important topic. I have also seen stone-free rings of great beauty and personal meaning. A few years ago, a couple I knew commissioned an exquisitely crafted engagement ring made with a tiny fragment of the groom's family's fourth-generation heirloom china. It cost them only a couple of hundred dollars, but was more "precious" than anything they could have purchased.
Priscilla from Gardenmis said 8 years ago
Love that there are options to do this!
Ami Marie Reist from LMLovelyVintage said 8 years ago
Loved this article! Well done!
Joel and Erika Snayd from ShopRethink said 8 years ago
So excited about the debut of Etsy's new Fine Jewelry section! Look at these gems!
Mary Lezcano from BellaBboutique said 8 years ago
Beautiful jewels and nothing to feel bad about!
Emily and Amy from matesrubbish said 8 years ago Featured
what a great article, and what perfect timing! i've spent the past month scouring for the perfect conflict-free ring for my big day, and honestly, my choices are endless. there are so many amazing rings out there that we can purchase guilt-free! it's heartwarming to know that many have switched from salivating over huge chunks of conflict diamonds to wanting something that is both meaningful and ethical.
Jess Masters from RefinedRock said 8 years ago
great article! beautiful selections-true works of fine art!
April Swiger from BrooksideDesigns said 8 years ago
What a fantastic article, and gorgeous jewelry! I, also, am very passionate about sourcing all my jewelry supplies from businesses that practice fair trade. I don't have any diamonds in my shop, but I make sure all my beads and stones have been cultivated through fair trade practices. It's a beautiful thing to know that my suppliers are helping many people around the world take steps out of extreme poverty.
D George from GeorgieGirlLLC said 8 years ago
Great article and beautiful jewelry.
Lynsey from lmouer said 8 years ago
This is such a fantastic article to put on Etsy. Educating yourself on what you are buying is so important -- whether it be jewelry, clothes, or food. It is important to take steps to improve the way we live and the first step is through education and sharing information with each other. Thank you for this post. I will be passing it on to my friends and shoppers.
Alisa from AlisaDesign said 8 years ago
Great!
Scott from vinylclockwork said 8 years ago
Nice Rings
Patti Trostle from PattiTrostle said 8 years ago
Great article and beautiful jewelry!
Shola from YarningKnots said 8 years ago
Those rings are really shiny. I like shiny...SHINY!!!!
Dawanna Young from peacesofindigo said 8 years ago
Fabulous article. Sourcing ethical gemstones and using only recycled precious metals is a cornerstone of my business. It's awesome to see this philosophy becoming a trend!
Stephanie from KitchenCulinaria said 8 years ago
Lovely! My husband proposed with a beautiful vintage Edwardian ring several years ago. Not only did it remove worry about conflict gems and modern environmental problems (history offers its own challenges, naturally, though a century after the fact there is little to be done), but it is also completely and utterly unique - just like our relationship.
Monica from ThreeBarDGifts said 8 years ago
Very interesting article! Beautiful collection of jewelry!
ApronStringVintage from ApronStringVintage said 8 years ago
All beautiful pieces...thank you for this article.
Emily Wirt from emwi said 8 years ago
Really interesting article. I never really was too aware about the ethical issues behind fine jewelry, and this was such a well-written and educational article. Thank you for sharing such an important topic and showing off some great rings while you're at it. :)
BreatheCouture from BreatheCouture said 8 years ago
Great article! Thank you for sharing and educating us.
Adam Lawler from LawlerDesign said 8 years ago
I appreciate your revealing of responsible stone harvesting practices. I don't know how unethical stone harvesting continues today.
Amanda Gynther from CafePrimrose said 8 years ago
My husband got me an antique ring some years ago when we got married. I was really happy that no slave labor went into it that no children were tortured to get it and that no further damage to the environment had been done. I love this little ring so much now that I have been wearing it for several years I can not imagine my life without it. It has become a part of me. And so too has the mindfulness that went into the choosing of this particular ring. Thank you Etsy, for this article. It is so important now perhaps more than ever that we take some time and pay attention to what we are spending our money on, nothing exists in a vacume and everything affects everything else. That stone at your local jewelry store may have caused several lives already, and the method by which it was mined may contribute to what will one day take all our lives. It is so important that we start paying attention.
baconsquarefarm from baconsquarefarm said 8 years ago
Oh wow, I'll take one of each, these rings are beautiful, enjoyed my read of your article too, thanks.
Una Stigsdottir from Unaberries said 8 years ago
Word to the Bird. Love from Iceland.
Natalie Fanell from LittleMissDressUp said 8 years ago
I really had no idea. I have always loved vintage pieces and selected them over the new stuff out there. Now I realize that there is more to just falling in love with a vintage dazzler. Ethics play a huge role.
HandiworkinGirls from HandiworkinGirls said 8 years ago
Lovely pieces! These are beautiful selections from amazing Etsy artists. :)
Patrick from EdelweissPost said 8 years ago
I love the idea of buying a vintage ring, or having one handed down. It reminds me of one of my favorite movies: The Family Stone. I have thought about that film a lot, and have come to the conclusion that the 'Stone' in the title refers to three things: 1) The family wedding ring 2. The family's last name and 3. The mother, Cybil -- she was the rock which held the family together. Its stone, if you will.
shannakeaton from AntebellumVintage said 8 years ago Featured
My great grandmother's ring was just a simple gold band, it was so beautiful and worn from the many years she wore it. My sister has a simple gold band as well to honor her. I think sentimentality is so much more important than a flashy stone. Especially if that stone comes at a cost. What a wonderful article! Thank you for sharing! I'll be keeping my eye out for a beautiful vintage ring.
hubinshow from hubinshow said 8 years ago
The exquisite craftsmanship, praise!
Linda from lovelygifts said 8 years ago
Interesting article.
Giselle from MyArtAndFashion said 8 years ago
Great article, beautiful jewelry, thank you for sharing!
Sara Brazil from SararaVintage said 8 years ago
Very well thought out and interesting article, the choice for me was a simple 1915 platinum diamond ring. I knew I wanted the historic feel and that great cut that produces a flash and clarity some of the newer bigger stones just don't have. No matter what the size or shape, gold diamond or not I love the history behind an older ring. If you are lucky enough to have a family piece that's even better. You know where it came from and that no one or nothing was harmed in the making. And hey, my friends went even more eco friendly and just had simple designs inked on their fingers-now that is eternal:)
Jenna and Erik from BrightWallVintage said 8 years ago
Thank you, I am sharing this article!
Pine from GoodOldVintageOnline said 8 years ago
Insightful and informative...thank you!
Dahlila S. from dahlilafound said 8 years ago
Nice article. The whole "Diamonds are a girl's best friend" idea is completely lost on me. I don't need a rock; I want a partner & yes, something beautiful to wear on my finger, but vintage would be my style, definitely. I wouldn't want to wear a ring that came from conflict & blood shed. That's just really bad karma.
Natalia Snemis from expressyourself said 8 years ago
Nice selection:O)
Ruth Claydon from MothandMagpie said 8 years ago
Ah yes-guilt free and gorgeous is the way to go. I'd choose vintage diamonds all the way as hand cut stones also have a personality to them, and the settings are often of a higher quality too. Great article!
Nicole Leone from LEFTright said 8 years ago
Great article on an important topic!
Valerie from valeriestitchery said 8 years ago
Vintage jewelry is my preference anyway. There's just nothing that beats the craftsmanship and detail. But if it's a vintage ring, I'd still dip it in holy water, just to be safe!
Kimmy Duong from LittleCottonStudio said 8 years ago
Wonderful article and absolutely beautiful and unique jewelry! It would be a dream come true to be able to own something so gorgeous one day!
mazedasastoat from mazedasastoat said 8 years ago
I'm always very sceptical about so-called "conflict free" diamonds. I have a friend whose father was a diamond dealer, & he says it's virtually impossible to tell where a stone came from so you have to trust the paperwork, which can easily be falsified. Lab created seems the way to go if you really want some sparkle.
Sloanester from Sloanester said 8 years ago
I'm so glad you covered this topic, thank you. I have never been a fan of diamonds and the whole "bling" thing due to these issues. Thinking about a little kid with no arm in the name of a shiny rock is not beautiful. You give some great alternatives and remind people that their dollar spent ethically is their biggest political statement. That is beautiful.
Ele from minouette said 8 years ago
Today diamonds mined here in Canada (obviously conflict-free) are laser-etched with a polar bear - which does give a means of determining their provenance. I would have chosen a Canadian diamond, or a vintage one, but my engagement ring came down in the family. I do try to always be concious of buying habits, and these sort of rings can be the sort of investment which warrants doing one's homework! I would think that anyone would want to know that their ring could not be linked to carnage.
gingergirl113 from TheSunSurrendersRed said 8 years ago
I am an admirer of many of the artists featured here! So cool to see them all in one place!
Stephanie Maslow Blackman from metalicious said 8 years ago
What a great and revealing article about the truths of jewelry. It's nice to see so many jewelers who are conscious about the future of our planet! Thank you for sharing them with us.
aressa from OriginalBridalHanger said 8 years ago
Interesting post! Love your jewelry too...Very unique....Thanks for sharing...
GardenAngels from GardenAngels said 8 years ago
Gorgeous!
Fabiola Friedman from HuellaHuella said 8 years ago
Lovely article!
iammie from iammie said 8 years ago
Gorgeous! Love them!
Nicole from KarmaCodeOne said 8 years ago
Terrific article so happy to see the alternative choices shining bright ! True classics, well seasoned with a bit of the back bone to their history ~
Jane Priser from JanePriserArts said 8 years ago
Wonderful article! I have enjoyed looking at the shops featured. I am now accepting man made minerals.
Naomi Martnick from DancingMoonDesign said 8 years ago
beautiful article...love all the rings!
Sharon Moores from slathered said 8 years ago
Thank you for educating. There are so many conflict-free options for jewelers now, and all are so easy to obtain, I can't understand why some artists don't do it. The smallest effort on our part saves lives. It's unconscionable not to do it.
Prayer Notes by Cynthia from PrayerNotes said 8 years ago
I love the jewelry and the article. I believe all of the precious stones should be conflict-free, but we live a conflict-expectant world. Your stone artwork, from all of the different shops, is absolutely beautiful and to be applauded. I am tweeting this to all of my friends and family. Continue the great work and we will change the world, little by little, until it is all-encompassing. Thank you, so much! This article has touched my heart. ~Cynthia
Maddie from labellejewel said 8 years ago Featured
Interesting article, Lisa, and one that is close to my heart. As Keats said "a thing of beauty is a joy forever" and that is especially true with a special piece of jewelry. I have always been an advocate of genuine fine antique and vintage jewelry. Although it is getting harder to find as families keep their heirloom jewelry to pass on to the next generations. I like to own jewelry that was treasured by someone in the past. The care and skill of the craftsmen who hand-crafted these lovely designs is obvious when you look at an antique ring or pendant. As you mentioned, all of the older European or mine cut diamonds were conflict free, and it's a wonderful idea to recycle them, reducing environmental waste. Personally, I would not choose lab-created stones, as I like to know that what I am wearing is precious and formed under the earth thousands of years ago.
Rachel from 2TrickPony said 8 years ago
an important topic, and one that I am gratified to see etsy writing about; in the US it is illegal to trade in any diamond that is not "conflict free".
CHRISTINE SHMISTEEN from TheArtOfFinerThings said 8 years ago
ugh... I'd rather buy "used" than pay debeers for their inflated value of diamonds by hoarding.
Hilary Hahn from PinkPianos said 8 years ago
Beautiful ideas. I am married, but we have yet to exchange wedding bands. Will be sure to browse these shops when considering the perfect fit.
Aran from AideMemoire said 8 years ago
Great article. Thanks for writing it. I'm so happy to see this information becoming common knowledge.
Nguyen Le from KnitKnit said 8 years ago
Really happy to see ethical jewelers. Thank you for sharing!
Stacie from StacieFamilyTree said 8 years ago
I love this article. Thank you for caring for the earth! So important to remember to buy everything from food to clothes to jewerly from an ethical standard for all involved...The animals the earth and the environment. If you want to learn more watch earthlings at earthlings.com with Joaquin Phoenix practicing vegan in everything he does made this amazing documentary to save our earth watch it! Love and Peace...
Tiny Island from TinyIsland said 8 years ago
When my hubby and I finally got round to deciding to get married (we'd been together already for 13 years by then!) I didn't want a blingy new ring. So we went to Whitby (North Yorkshire) where he was born, to choose a ring from the many vintage shops there. We bought a beautiful little ring which was a very dark sapphire little heart and I loved it. It didn't cost very much - but was cute and suited me. Sadly, last October I managed to lose it, along with my wedding band, my rings from admin Amity that I got years ago and some cheap rings that I'd had since a teenager. I was heartbroken. My mum has since given me my dad's mum's rings (who died when I was 10) - her wedding ring, the new wedding ring she treated herself to and her engagement ring. These are to do with what I want - sell them, or redo them to fit me. Sadly I had an allergic reaction to them - they are gold, so I will have to sell them and get something to replace them instead. I will try and reuse the diamonds that are on the engagement ring though. I also plan on spending the money on Etsy on new rings. Oh - I also plan on taking much better care of these ones too!!! Promise. x x
Bethany Edwards from EdwardsandLace said 8 years ago
How stunning... particularly the first set of rings xx
Aristocrafts from Aristocrafts said 8 years ago
This is a wonderful article! People should learn more about the origin of their jewelry and be more conscious about the fact that there is a price to pay not only for the piece itself, but that the enviroment and human lives also pay for it. I am all for vintage jewelry, besides them having an ethical source they are unique in so many ways! A big applause also for all the wonderful Etsy artist who make enviromental conscious jewelry.
Zoui from XZOUIX said 8 years ago
first of all - i must say it's great that you write and post articles like this one on etsy. without spreading the word, many people would never know that these things actually happen in the world. and second thing - amazing finds! i love vintage rings, they're my guilty pleasures :)
Motleycouture from Motleycouture said 8 years ago
Love, Love, this article. Vintage jewelry has so much to say to us. It is so elegant and to know that there is a story behind each piece is even more appealing. Thank you for such a wonderful feature.
Liesl Carlson from lcarlsonjewelry said 8 years ago
Thank you for sharing. I use as many recycled metal as I can. Thank you for informing so many.
Vanda Fashion from VandaFashion said 8 years ago
Wonderful article!!!!!!!!:)
Cassandra de la Higuera from FigTreeJewellery said 8 years ago
Lovely to see people's ethics changing for the better! My husband and I got our wedding bands pre-loved, even managed to find them matching :)
Matejka Max from NattyMatty said 8 years ago
Cool!
Colleen Quisenberry from LavenderRoseAcc said 8 years ago
Great article!! Lovely rings as well!
Karis Crawford from somethingpoetic said 8 years ago
Lovely article! It makes me even more fond of my vintage ring! dearyouido.com
Alexandra Simons from BlueMoonLights said 8 years ago
Great article, important topic to think about before buying a ring!
Mother Lark from MotherLark said 8 years ago
well done etsy.
Charlyn from charlynw said 8 years ago
Wonderful, wonderful post!!! The rings are beautiful! :O
Terry from Parachute425 said 8 years ago
Geeeeez! Who knew? Maybe they could change the song to "tie a string on it". (Hemp, of course.)
messinabella from BandBEstate said 8 years ago
Great article!
Asper Reynolds from LulusTreasureChest said 8 years ago
Thanks for this great informative article.
CAT Tillinghast from CATTATTING said 8 years ago
Great information. Thank you for sharing.
Gari Anne from beadloverskorner said 8 years ago
Thanks so much for the great information!
Kate from GardenDaisies said 8 years ago
Wonderful article and very informative. When we decided to look for engagement rings and wedding bands, we were looking at vintage/antique, and ethically/recycled examples, before making a decision. I ended up with an engagement ring from the 1930s with a beautiful European cut diamond and a band without stones, but with engravings from the 1920s and my husband ended up with a handmade ring from here on Etsy with recycled materials - we both love them and know we chose wisely.
Angela from DeliriumAccessories said 8 years ago
Amazing rings!! want them all ;)
Som from SomsStudio said 8 years ago
What fabulous jewelry and a very important article. Thanks for sharing!
Rail19 from Rail19 said 8 years ago
Super finds! I especially love the Lavender diamond bezel set - that is amazing!! Makes me want to get married all over again just so I can have that ring.
Sara Schroeder from ToosDetectiveAgency said 8 years ago Featured
I love my engagement ring more than I thought I would. We found it in an antique store in New Orleans, which jives with my recycling values. It's silver (I don't like gold), topaz, and - I just learned the other day when we took it to be sized - Moissanite. I love that this ring has a history, didn't require any additional resources, is unique, and (the best part!) cost $125.
Sharon Challand from Challand said 8 years ago
Pretty rings and antique pieces are always such a good idea!
LivingVintage from LivingVintage said 8 years ago
Wonderful picks! Love the vintage.
Adva Ringle from MyPaperKittens said 8 years ago
My engagement ring actually belonged to my great-grandmother, so it is wonderful to think that it has a family history behind it and that no extra mining was done on my behalf :)
Laura Ashton from laurasbotanicalart said 8 years ago
At last the truth is being told!! I am not married but have always hoped the day I do tie the not would not add to the violence and destruction being caused today my many diamond and gold suppliers.
Victoria from VictoriaCampAllison said 8 years ago
My antique engagement ring came from GoldAdore! I am so happy to see her shop included here. She has such gorgeous pieces and is a super friendly seller! I would definitely recommend her Etsy shop to anyone looking for unusual (and beautiful) antique rings.
raegirl from raegirl said 8 years ago
Back in 1992 when I was married, I had no idea what conflict diamonds were. It makes me sick to think that something as beautiful as the stone in my ring could have caused human suffering. Thank you for posting this very important information.
gaiadesignstudios from GaiaDesignStudios said 8 years ago
what a great article and stunning rings!
Esmeralda from SilverBlueberry said 8 years ago
Very important topic! Thanks for highlighting it.
Sonya from GourmetHandbags said 8 years ago
Such a wonderfully informative article.
IrisLighting from iLighting said 8 years ago
Great!
Regina from ChainAndCluster said 8 years ago
Lovely jewelry!
Lucy Chen from LucyChenFineArt said 8 years ago
These rings are beautiful! A big YES to ethical rings, or any jewellery for that matter. One only has to watch Blood Diamond to get a basic idea. A wonderful article!
Victoria Baker from LittleWrenPottery said 8 years ago
Beautiful rings! I love vintage ones though, they just have such history to them : )
Adriana from ripeshop said 8 years ago
Beautiful eye candy!! I am in love with vintage rings, and actually bought my own vintage wedding band here on Etsy. Love this post :)
Justine from BrooklynSoapworks said 8 years ago
Your collection is spectacular and your ethics even more beautiful, thank you so much for helping to educate buyers about the impact their diamond purchases make and giving them so many gorgeous alternatives!
Brigit from TwoSilverMoons said 8 years ago
Wonderful article. It is great that people are more and more aware of these issues. I purchase my metals from a refiner who uses only recycled precious metals and environmentally responsible refining processes.
Coral Stig from abcoraldesign said 8 years ago
Thank you for your sharing. It's really a great article. I love to use recycled and ethical materials in my jewelry design as well.
Addy from Addy said 8 years ago
Lovely article! I know that we considered a vintage engagement ring and wedding band solely because of ethical reasons...and that was the start of what became our shop. Thank you for including our ring.
Rebecca Dufilie from rebeccascreations said 8 years ago
~ ~ ~ ~ ~~~ Very interesting read....Excellent!.....~ ~ ~ ~~ ~ ~ ~
Rachel from PeppersJewelry said 8 years ago
Beautiful jewelry!
Elena Muchnik from lenkamuchnik said 8 years ago
Thank you!!!Cool!
Stacie from StacieFamilyTree said 8 years ago
Love these
Mariel Heart from TheHeartDepartment said 8 years ago
The information about the conflict diamonds and dirty gold is accurate; however, the promotion of lab-created stones in this article is not. I am a GIA Gemologist and veteran of the Jewelry industry for 17 years and there are many incredible gemstones mined from our earth where the mining does not scar the earth or the people as indicated. I do not support diamond mining nor the historically famed DeBeer's marketing that has made the diamond the choice stone for engagement rings. I do support small family owned mines that source the finest and rarest gems nationally and around the world. LAB-CREATED GEMS DO NOT HAVE VALUE AND NEVER WILL. If you want to pay an overpriced fee for someone to make a stone that does not have natural energy in it in a petri dish, go ahead, it is worthless as soon as it's made. This article makes me steam with how uninformed the jewelers are that are selling these synthetics into the market and misguiding consumers on their value. Provide true value, please.
BEATRIZ DE ESCALA from DeEscalaArt said 8 years ago
Love the clarity of the PICS.
Hendri . from butikonline83 said 8 years ago
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SheEarth Crystals & Creations from SheEarth said 8 years ago
As a rock boffin Gemologist this topic is close to my heart. i am so pleased to see it up for discussion in the general population
Melissa Baldwin from EmeraldCustomSigns said 8 years ago
Love, love, love this. My emerald wedding ring belonged to my husband's grandma and I'm so glad to have a ring that is conflict-free. I absolutely love your rings and love the cause! I wish women would speak out more about this.
therawstone from TheRawStone said 8 years ago
Wonderful article about a really important topic! If you're on the lookout for ethically sourced diamonds and gemstones, we're someone you can trust. We source gemstones from the Tanzania Association of Women Miners and rough diamonds from various traceable sources. www.therawstone.com
virginie lykins from anordicrose said 8 years ago
I wear a simple wedding ring in 14 ct gold, my husband and I had only 100 $ to buy rings..... we have been married almost 12 years..... it's the love that counts, not the bling ! Now, on the other hand... had we had more $$$ I would have loved an antique ring.... something from the Victorian era.
laura said 8 years ago
This really captures what I feel when I think about my future engagement and wedding ring, or any meaningful jewelry for that matter. I am so happy to read this article and learn more!
Veronica Yim from VintageGirl72 said 7 years ago
This June my beloved husband and I will celebrate 10 years of marriage! He did buy me a antique engagement ring. (My request!) Since I love in a house furnished in antique furniture. My dining room table is from the 1940's, I have a Eastlake rocking chair and matching settee in our living room as well as a host of other collectibles. I wear vintage clothing often and it is to my personal taste. But when we first became engaged it was 'very original' to have a ring that was antique or vintage. Since I am a bridal consultant engagement rings are more often pondered upon more than any other profession! People would assume it was a family piece. When I told them otherwise many were puzzled and confused. ' You mean you do not know who owned it?' 'What about Karma ?' Well meaning people sometimes ask the oddest of questions. But since many of the things I own have a past life I tend not to worry about it. You bring your own happiness to a object after all! Now for our ten year wedding anniversary we have found via Etsy a fabulous wedding band from 1930's purchased from GoldAdore! It has ten diamonds and a floral motif that matches my diamond wedding ring perfectly! I am in love with it! And will cherish it! And Gillian who owns GoldAdore is nothing short of wonderful! Love is what counts but a little bling sure doesn't hurt either!
TheSoCalCompany from TheSoCalCompany said 7 years ago
Excellent article. I want to use ethical stones for my future engagement ring and any other gemstone I might wear. I don't necessarily promote buying lab created stones because (although it helps the economy to an extent) I feel that there is real value in wearing a genuine piece from our earth. As long as it is found and acquired responsibly. The examples shown here are stunning. I favorited other designs from these shops as well.
Nemki from nemki said 7 years ago
Gorgeous!
Kathy Johnson from kathyjohnson3 said 7 years ago
These rings are so beautiful!
Kathy from MostlyStoneware said 7 years ago
How wonderful to see this very important issue so creatively and beautifully presented, ethical sourcing and fair trade are so very important to me, and to our world.
isabelle isabelle said 7 years ago
Superbe article! les bagues sont superbes, ça change du traditionnel anneau La première a ma préférence!
Sandy from SandysLocker said 7 years ago
Really a moving and educational article. Wish lots more people would read it and take it to heart. Thanks for sharing!
Kayla from LetterKay said 7 years ago
Gorgeous rings!
Zeynep from ZeyJewel said 7 years ago
Very good....thank you
Aga from AgasJourney said 7 years ago
Gorgeous rings (beauties) and very interesting post! thank you for sharing
Ann Cosgrove from acbcDesign said 7 years ago
Great rings and educational article!
Linda from lovelygifts said 7 years ago
Interesting article and beautiful selection of rings
fineartstoneware from fineartstoneware said 7 years ago
Interesting article! I wear a ring that was my grandmother's as my wedding band!
Patrick from EdelweissPost said 7 years ago
I love the idea of buying a vintage ring, or having one handed down. It reminds me of one of my favorite movies: The Family Stone. I have thought about that film a lot, and have come to the conclusion that the 'Stone' in the title refers to three things: 1) The family wedding ring 2. The family's last name and 3. The mother, Cybil -- she was the rock which held the family together. Its stone, if you will.
Lynsey from lmouer said 7 years ago
Beautiful post and great selections. Thank you for sharing!
Katrina Dzerkale from Dominna said 7 years ago
Those are some seriously gorgeous rings !
AurumBay from AurumBayJewelry said 7 years ago
One of the sad things about jewelry is that it is all so commercialized and for profit that many people don't even stop to think about why they are buying it and for whom, and if the jewelry that they buy will truly serve the purpose that they want it to. With everyone these days on a budget and tight with money, commercialized stores are turning to non-precious metals and routing out those conflict stones to meet the demand for cheaper and cheaper! it is so bad that the diamond market is locked down. In India, there are tons of diamonds but because of the monopoly, they cannot use normal channels to secure buyers for their lovely goods and support their own families with the riches they rightfully own. It is lovely to see articles like this that tell people about the alternatives and open up their minds to the endless possibilities of creativity that is their own and jewelry that bears the style and meaning that holds true value to them. I'm so very blessed to have joined the Etsy community and meet others that care about what they make and who they make it for and try to use local sourcing for their materials.
IKA PARIS from ikabags said 7 years ago
Lovely pieces!
8point8 from ThinkEco2 said 7 years ago
Wow! Great article and absolutely gorgeous rings. Thanks for sharing.
Ruth Morris from ReadyAimRedo said 7 years ago
Amazing Work! Interesting article
Tiffany Key from resinjewelryHARUAKI said 7 years ago
The ring I wear on my official wedding finger is one that my granddad made for my grandma. They were completely broke and more teenagers than adults. He was good with metal though and took a silver washer he found and beat it into a smooth signet ring. Later he replaced it with a diamond but when my grandma was dying, she passed the original ring to me, telling me that it was her real ring. As soon as it could fit, it has never left my finger. I love carrying that story of love with me and look forward to passing it along to my daughter.
Michael and Erin Waite from OliveSpoonStudio said 7 years ago
I was thrilled to be given my grandmother's diamond ring, and used it as my wedding ring years later. It holds so many layers of meaning and love.
Erika Kelly from PortlandApronCompany said 7 years ago
How do you choose?! They're all so pretty!
Amanda Gynther from CafePrimrose said 7 years ago
Just beautiful! When I got engaged I got my first diamond. Actually I got three of them. They were so small I could barely see them. Most of my friends had the big flashy thing that they got at Jared, but not me. My ring was simple just a small white gold band with those 3 tiny diamonds. It was a cultural compromise. In scandinavia, at least in Finland typically wedding bands are more high end. Engagement bands are really very cheap and very rarely have any stones at all. They are super simple. My husband is Finnish. He bought my engagement ring in Finland. He had to look high and low to find one with any diamonds at all. Because he knew, I am american, if it doesn't have that it really won't feel like an engagement ring for me. Cultural difference..... Later we got married and he offered me the biggest diamond in the shop for my wedding band. And I looked at it and I said "Honey, it has no personality and no character.... I don't want that giant thing I couldn't drive if I was wearing something that kinda huge on my hand." So we kept looking.... One day in my home town we went into an antique store just to look around. I had already turned down rings that would have cost the same amount as my house. But I saw this little ring.... About half a karat total, antique and beautiful with a secret.... And I fell in love with it. $400 for my wedding ring. White gold antique. And I couldn't be happier. This ring had a soul. Husband also found an antique ring that matches well with the one I wear. 2 wedding rings for under $800. Most of my friends wasted thousands. These are beautiful and practical, they feel good, and they have character. What do I need with a rock that costs more than my house??? Seriously it isn't going to do my dishes and scrub my floors or run my errands or do anything useful for me. It is going to sit there on my hand and shout "look at me look at me! I am shiny and expensive!!!" Great. I would rather have a car that does that. A car does that and more.
GrowingOldTogether from GrowingOldTogether said 7 years ago
Gorgeous pieces from some amazing artists and vintage sellers!
invisiblecolor from InvisibleColor said 7 years ago
I love the message of the article. Diamonds do not necessarily need to be the staple when it comes to wedding rings! My mother had a simple gold band, similar to what some have stated here :)
Wood Iphone Cases from WoodiPhoneCases said 7 years ago
Nice cuts and shapes on the diamonds. Keep making beautiful things
Caroline and Brandon Matey from TheMissingTagVintage said 7 years ago
Beautiful finds. I hope to get my ring here on etsy. :)
Billy Bubbles from FireIslandSoap said 7 years ago
I REALLY ENJOYED READING THIS!!!
Stephanie from PristineCustomRings said 7 years ago
Very fun article, and very true! The ring is a symbol of your Love and Commitment for everyone Else to see, your actions and words are the expression of your Love and Commitment for you and your to see! No matter how big or small or how glitzed or glammed your ring may be, its the beauty behind that make your heart shine...
Amy Harby from harburyhill said 7 years ago
I absolutely love the diamond my husband picked out for me but there are some real beauties here too! I love the twig band; so unique. Great finds and great article!
Lala Jewelry from Laladesignstudio said 7 years ago
Ethical sourcing of metals and stones is an important part of jewelry making and buying. Wonderful post!
Ruthie from LoveYourBling said 7 years ago
Gorgeous!
RetroRevivalBoutique from RetroRevivalBoutique said 7 years ago
I'm totally swooning over these gorgeous rings! :3
Theresa Ryales from TheresasGourmet said 7 years ago
Absolutely Beautiful...
Angel Szafranko from AngelSzafranko said 7 years ago
wow these rings are sooo pretty!
mazedasastoat from mazedasastoat said 7 years ago
All in all, it's way cheaper & much more environmentally friendly not to get married at all!
Megan Moulos from RigbyAndFable said 7 years ago
Wonderful article. I am so glad Etsy is taking the time to bring attention to this issue. I have always been anti-diamonds, so thank you for this!
Not Made In China Finds from NotMadeInChinaFinds said 7 years ago
G O R G E O U S These ring are really beautiful. The diamond business is a bloody business though.
Sukran Kirtis from SukranKirtisJewelry said 7 years ago
Stunning picks, all so unique
VINTAGE NOW from ESTATENOW said 7 years ago
Very beautiful rings...Love them all.
Bridget Scott from UnlockedVintage said 7 years ago
I will accidently leave this post up on my boyfriends computer, so he feels inspired. :) haha beautiful collection!
Blossom from BlossomSashes said 7 years ago
Thank you for all...
Natalia Snemis from expressyourself said 7 years ago
cool rings !
Michelle Cornelison from oceanityhandmade said 7 years ago
My engagement ring belonged to my husband's grandmother. His family wasn't sure about the quality of the stone, so he had it replaced with a new diamond that was mined in Canada and fully traced every step of the way. His proposal was a complete surprise and I knew nothing about it, but even the size was perfect! When he told me about all of his research in finding a stone, it made me cry. My ring is simple and classic--but the story and the thought behind it is what makes it precious to me.
sarantos from SARANTOS said 7 years ago
I try to leave a small footprint. Never owned a car and ride a bicycle or walk everywhere. I was involved in the first Earth Day fair in 1970 and it set the tone. I'm happy to say that the refiner I use for my metals is environmentally responsible and only uses recycled precious metals. Glad people are more aware now.
Shannon Duffey from MountainMommaGems said 7 years ago
I love this article so much! There are ethical, local alternatives if you look. There are jewelers and gemsmiths that take great pride in offering conflict free items, especially here on Etsy. It matters where things come from and how they are made, especially those that will be passed down to future generations.
Deanna M from I365Art said 7 years ago
These are absolutely gorgeous. I wish I could afford something like that, but considering my finances, probably not in a thousand years.
Salpie and Karena from HouseOfMark said 7 years ago
Beautiful pieces and a wonderful article. Thanks!
Jan, Mo from Jewelluxe said 7 years ago
A very well written article - thank you for your comprehensive research.
rebecca romero said 7 years ago
Wow thats my wedding band (kateszabone Lavender diamond) I purchased it some time ago. I'd like to say that I was unaware of the difference between conflict and conflict free. Now that I know I'm glad that both my engagement and wedding band were bought on etsy. To be honest the main reason why I love the rings on etsy is because as an artist I can tell that they truly are art. Not mass produced copies, but hand crafted inspired works of art.
Kathy Johnson from kathyjohnson3 said 7 years ago
These beautiful vintage rings are gorgeous! The article was very informative and its nice to know that there are choices in wedding rings that you can purchase a beautiful ring but not pay the high price of real diamonds, after all its the thought that counts, not the price of the ring....
Barbara Turner from BarbaraATurner said 7 years ago
Michael and I bought antique rings to avoid blood diamonds. I matched a floral carved gold band with a row of pave mine cut stones. He chose an Art Deco band with carved leaves. Michael only has sisters. The ring had an engraving: "Sonny, I love you--Babs".
Piaf Vintage French from PiafVintageFrench said 7 years ago
Thanks for this great article! I'm pretty new to etsy, and one of the first things I noticed is the abundance of beautiful, unique rings. I love the idea of offering a one-of-a-kind ring as a reflection of each woman's singularity so I was elated when my French husband proposed to me with the engagement ring from his maternal great aunt, who was engaged exactly 100 years before me. It's an exquisite and very special Art Deco ring with diamonds and princess rubies set in concentric circles. It's radiant and soft and subtle with a unique story that would become more personal through marriage, for me a more romantic alternative to the standard diamond solitaire. And knowing they were conflict-free diamonds was of supreme importance since I had worked on child soldier projects that gave me a glimpse of the unimaginable horror behind many diamonds on the wider market. So I'm thankful for alternative marketplaces like etsy and the creators and sellers in it for offering beautiful, unique rings in a way that's kind and ethical. Keep up the beautiful work!
Talila from TalilaDesign said 7 years ago
Great article and beautiful jewelry. :)
Talila from TalilaDesign said 7 years ago
Great post and beautiful jewelry. :)
Amanda Hoffman from AJHStudio said 7 years ago
Thanks for this article. Finding an ethical engagement ring was something my fiance and I found was extremely important. We found a vintage ring on ETSY and we both are so happy with it, and feel like it was a great choice to go ethical!
Maria Bradley from MeryBradley said 7 years ago
So happy to know there are conscious jewellers creating these beauties through their ethical and eco-conscious work....congrats all on each little thing of your work :-) By the way....I love all those rings!! Thanks for the article :-)
Jenna Balogh Linhart from BizzyCatStudio said 7 years ago
great post...thank you so much for sharing! I posted the blog link to my shop facebook page.
OneClayBead from OneClayBead said 7 years ago
My wedding ring was made by McFarland Designs, purchased right here on Etsy. We chose it to replace my original ring after reading Blood Diamonds. I get constant compliments on my gorgeous moissanite, and love it dearly! Wearing it creates an opening to discuss the power we have as consumers to vote with our dollars. Thanks for a great article.
Tevhide from ottobags said 7 years ago
Superrrrrr!!!!
Veronik Selvi from RisusDiamond said 7 years ago
wowww...I want to have them all...great article...thank you so much for informing us
Susan from petcozy said 7 years ago
What a brilliant article, and terrific examples of gorgeous pieces to consider as options. I loved the addition of the costs of gold as well. I notice those who are worried about the environment and human conflict often overlook their own wedding set- I pinned this on Pinterest as a way to spread the word. Thank you for this article.
pretentiousAnne from pretentiousAnne said 7 years ago
My gem of choice - a stone of the season. Whatever attunement is needed during my path, the corresponding stone vibration is the one that fits the season! <3 Stones for healing. Balancing us with our earth. <3 Currently, I'm wearing a pale Amethyst with glistening rainbows within it. :) Presumably to strengthen my sense love towards my self and all things, to surround my self with a vibration of love. Opening my throat chakra to communicate clearly to those I share my environment with. When this is balanced in me, I will be drawn to another stone... and my path of learning will continue <3
Michelle from DesignerHeadboards said 7 years ago
This post is great and very interesting! Thanks so much for the research and sharing it with us!
Marie Cashin from MEmbroideries said 7 years ago
Elegant pieces, and I love the ethics behind them!
Erin O'Rourke from Aruguletta said 7 years ago
Thank you for this article; this is exactly how I feel. "Traditional" wedding rings are so over-promoted, for nothing more than profit. If I see one more "he went to Jared!" commercial I'll scream!
Debbie McFarland from MemoryCottages said 7 years ago
Much more special than a ring off the shelf. I love that there is history in the jewelry creating a new future out of the past.
Kam from RiverGoddessBoutique said 7 years ago
Ethical and beautiful....win, win! : )
Gail Oliver from AttentionGetting said 7 years ago
Fabulous rings!
Genise Park from GeniseParkArts said 7 years ago
Great article. Lots to keep in mind when buying a ring!
aressa from OriginalBridalHanger said 7 years ago
Love this post...I had no idea....Thanks for sharing this information....
AuroraHorton from EstateofAuroraHorton said 7 years ago
This was a great article to read! Thank you!
Caitlin Benson from cinderandhoney said 7 years ago
All very beautiful rings. Thank you for sharing!
Minter Richter from MinterandRichterDes said 7 years ago
We get so many customer's coming to us saying "I'm Not A Diamond Girl" and think that this should become the new catchphrase instead of "Diamond's Are a Girl's Best Friend"! Great article highlighting that there are ethical options out there for folks who desire a diamond or gem setting. Minter Minter & Richter Designs
accentonvintage from accentonvintage said 7 years ago
Beautiful rings! Great article!
Amber from BambuEarth said 7 years ago
Wonderful article and so glad someone posted on this. My ring has a diamond, but the diamond is one passed down. Otherwise, I would have opted for a more ethically conscious stone. I think it is so important to be aware of these issues, especially when millions of people are getting married. ♥
domenica sa from BeautyLineAda said 7 years ago
amazing rings wow
Peter Nottrott from objectart said 7 years ago
Even most of the rings aren't plain, they have lovely patterns - great.
Sujata from TreasuredMemoryLane said 7 years ago
Beautiful collections of rings. Designs and patterns are very different and unique. Great article.
katherine Lenz from 214EVER said 7 years ago
Wow, for the brides-to-be who are going to get married, these designs are stunning enough for them to choose from. I just wish i am one of the brides-to-be.
Stacey Trock Hunter from FreshStitches said 7 years ago
Thanks for writing this! My ring is Moissanite and I get so many compliments on it! It is slightly more refractive than a diamond and nearly as hard... it gives off an amazing rainbow in the right lighting! I love it... AND it was significantly less expensive than a diamond. A real win!
Veronik Selvi from RisusDiamond said 7 years ago
love love love it...
Kelly Ellis from UniqueApplique said 7 years ago
Beautiful work
Books and Jewelry from Booksandjewelry said 7 years ago
Great work ;-)
Nandita Albright from ContemporaryArtDaily said 7 years ago
This is recycled metal crafted into such beautiful rings. Simply stunning. I would have thought it was an expensive crafted material!
Jessica Harrelson from LOFThomedecor said 7 years ago
Great article and BEAUTIFUL jewelry. I am in love!
jerilouise said 7 years ago
I own a beautiful McFarland Designs wedding ring. When people comment on it's beauty I take the opportunity to educate them about the ethical reasons for choosing Moissanite.
Luz Spears from OneofakindVintage1 said 7 years ago
WOW! This is amazing Kudos for the Jewelry and Kudos for this article !
Jane Elizabeth from wolftigerjewellery said 7 years ago
This is so inspiring! I would love to learn how to make these one day...
Denise Vining from kadydesigns said 7 years ago
What a great article!! I totally agree that checking into where the diamond comes from is so important. There are so many beautiful vintage rings out there that can be redesigned or leave it the way it is. Either way you'll end up with a great ring you can be proud of. Thanks for sharing!
Kimber Williams said 7 years ago
Great article! Thanks!
Justin from celticfinds said 7 years ago
Some old European cut diamonds are amazingly showy. They're always on my shopping list...
Koren Kwan from GarasuWonderland said 6 years ago
interesting article~
Dahlia Tjahyadi from AmitieCollection said 6 years ago
I love this article! And love those rings too!
Rachel said 6 years ago
I want a gemstone engagement ring (your article is the exact reason why a diamond ring has never interested me). However, some natural occurring gemstones are sourced in Africa. Are there ones that are more notorious for being unethical? My ideal engagement ring would be an antique / vintage one (more of a one of a kind type ring) and those can be hard to track what company they're originally from since they're e-rings. Any tips for good or gemstones?? My favorite stone is green tourmaline. Thanks!
Vena Amoris Jewelry from VenaAmorisJewelry said 4 years ago
Check out Vena https://www.etsy.com/shop/VenaAmorisJewelry Each piece in entirely hand-crafted using ethical practices Committed to being ethical, environmental aware and transparent with clients from star to finish in our process.