The film Blood Diamond may have been shut out at the Oscars this year, but it’s a winner in our eyes for bringing awareness to the dark side of of the diamond industry. Fortunately jewelry companies such as Brilliant Earth, Green Karat, and vintage jewelers like Isadora’s and Wanna Buy A Watch? offer gorgeous, conflict-free gems for your engagement or wedding. Yes you can be romantic and responsible–isn’t that what an ideal marriage should be?
TIMELESS & TRADITIONAL
Princess Cut Garland Ring Set, Brilliant Earth
Perhaps the brilliant idea behind Brilliant Earth is their Create Your Own Ring option. You choose the diamond (caret, cut, and clarity) and setting to create a customized ring for your honey. Their diamonds are ethically mined in Canada.
My favorite vintage jewelry store is a well-known boutique on Melrose strip in L.A. called Wanna Buy a Watch? Yes, the store does indeed offer an amazing array of time pieces by Rolex, Movada and the like, but half of their store is actually devoted to vintage wedding and engagement rings ranging from the 20’s to the 50’s. The bands above are a sampling of what styles you can buy online, they carry beautiful earrings and necklaces too. Prices range from $400s to $10,000s.
IN LOVING COLOR
colored gemstone such as canary diamonds, blue or even pink sapphires (popular gem of choice in the early 20th century).
Pink Tourmaline Ring, Isadora’s
Circa 1920’s this ring is an Art Deco original set into a platinum band. I tried on a similar ring recently — and was surprised to see how complimentary the stone is set against your skin.
Victorian Sapphire Ring, Isadora’s
Circa 1900’s. This 18KT rose gold ring is centered by a beautiful blue sapphire and accented by sparkling diamonds. Love the elegant simplicity.
Canary Uncaged, GreenKarat
Stunning yellow diamond set in recycled 18K yellow or white gold, or 90% recycled platinum.
Sapphire Engagement Ring, Brilliant Earth
Brilliant Earth offers a full collection of fairly traded sapphire rings.
Secret Love
Binary Ring, $950 by GreenKarat
Designed and hand carved by artist Gideon Weisz, these custom rings give couples a way to share a secret bond. Your desired message is translated and engraved into binary code (the ring shown says “a marriage of values”). Available in recycled yellow or white gold, or platinum. Want an extra karmic boost? Offer to pay a voluntary carbon offset tax with your purchase.
