You want to buy your beloved a gleaming diamond ring, but you are hesitant because of the numerous known ethical issues with diamond mining. There are many reasons to choose a fair trade or conflict free diamond. The unfortunate fact is that many conventional diamonds are bloodied by civil conflict and human rights issues. For these reasons, many buyers can now choose a variety of alternatives. These include:

FAIR TRADE OR CONFLICT FREE DIAMONDS

Fair trade diamonds are a kinder option. Their mining operations do not finance any sort of rebel movements in underdeveloped countries. This protects against human rights abuses. Some brands of conflict free diamonds also have ethical mining operations that minimize environmental impact while giving back to their communities. Each conflict free diamond has its origins directly and meticulously traced to a country and mine.

RECYCLED DIAMONDS

Recycled diamonds are becoming a popular option for many buyers. Refurbished from prior jewelry, these diamonds are a sound ethical and environmental choice as they do not require new mining. They help reduce demand for new mining; preventing human rights abuses and reducing environmental impact.

LAB CREATED DIAMONDS

Thanks to the wonders of modern science and technology, diamonds can now be manufactured from scratch in laboratories. These diamonds are created with technology that duplicates how they are formed in nature. Lab created diamonds are indistinguishable from mined ones. They are just as beautiful and luminous but a far more ethical choice! They are also more affordable than mined diamonds and the manufacture of them consumes fewer natural resources than mining.

SUBSTITUTE GEMSTONES

In addition, there are a number of similar gems that are almost indistinguishable from diamonds to the layman. These include white sapphire, moissanite and cubic zirconia. All three of these gemstones are far more affordable than even lab grown diamonds and boast a similar appearance.

As you can see, there are many options available to the ethically minded buyer that reduce the environmental and human impact of diamond mining. It is up to you as the buyer to determine which options best suit your needs, budget and ethical preferences.