According to Global Witness, conflict diamonds are diamonds that are used by rebel groups to increase conflict and civil wars which lead to millions of lives being lost. Terrorist groups such as Al-Qaeda also use diamonds to finance their activities. It’s hard to estimate how many diamonds are “blood diamonds.”
Many women want a diamond engagement ring, so here are some green alternatives that decrease the potential of buying a conflict diamond:
- Heirloom Diamond: Give a diamond engagement ring that is being passed down through the family. If the ring being passed down isn’t the right style, the couple can find a jeweler who will melt down the metal and use the diamond to create a “new” ring.
- Antique Diamond Ring: Purchase an antique ring which recycles a ring that has already been made and purchased. Usually one can find antique rings that cost much less than the average 7000 dollars that is spent on an engagement ring.
- Canadian Diamond Ring: In the Northwest Territories of Canada, there are strict environmental and working condition regulations regarding diamond mining.
- Synthetic and Cultured Diamond Rings: Buy one of these rings that cost less and guarantee that it didn’t come at the expense of the environment and human lives.
Tom said,
January 21, 2009 @ 7:05 pm
Something that is rarely thought of, but really good advice!
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