Historically, the fine jewelry industry has been associated with unethical production practices including underpaid workers, unsafe working conditions, and even wars . Due to the nature of the materials- metals, minerals, and diamonds which all come from the ground, the harmful techniques required for extraction lead to soil erosion, water pollution, and land degradation, all severe issues  for underdeveloped countries who depend on this land for food production.

Aside from the environmental impact, there is a major social conflict associated with diamond sourcing that we should all be aware of. Most diamonds come from the most underdeveloped regions in the world where the process likely involves slave labor, life-threatening working conditions, and violence. It then passes through countless stops before making their way to the final customer leading to untraceability and lack of transparency. The more we demand mined diamonds, the more we encourage and give way to such practices.

So What's The Alternative?

One option is to wear recycled and vintage diamonds. Although there is no way of knowing how the original diamond was sourced, it ensures no new mining is required to produce the piece.

Thankfully, in the last few years, cultured diamonds have become more widely available and sought after. Cultured diamonds are grown using highly advanced technological processes that replicate the conditions in which natural diamonds are developed. They possess the exact same physical, chemical, and optical properties as mined diamonds minus the ecological and social impact!

EXPLORE OUR CO-FOUNDER’S ETHICAL BRIDAL JEWELRY COLLABORATION WITH VRAI HERE:

“I believe sustainability will become the main if not the only route for all jewelry in the coming years. There is still a long way to go for the bridal and jewelry industry, but I am happy to be part of the journey towards that future.”

—Amanda Hearst—