Our Guide to Ethical Engagement Rings
When it comes to buying an ethical engagement ring there is a lot of noise out there. So we thought we’d create our own guide to help answer the questions we get most when helping couples find their dream ethical engagement ring. It’s important to consider the ethics behind each step in an engagement ring’s creation, from diamond production and diamond cutting to responsibly sourced metals – we understand you want peace of mind knowing each element had as little impact on the environment and the workers as possible, so you can focus on the love you’re celebrating.
What does ‘ethical’ engagement ring actually mean?
With an ethical focus at the centre of all things Windfall Jewellery, we only work with ethically sourced stones and materials in each ring, necklace, earring and wedding band. Sustainability ties in here too – the more we can recycle material and recreate rings, less toxins and mining needs to be done and we still get to create and wear the jewels we adore. There’s a different kinda pride that comes with making something beautiful, and is beautiful at every step of the process. Now that’s worth celebrating!
How to find ethical diamonds?
Well, wouldn’t you know it. As diamonds are the heart of most (but not every) dream engagement ring, we’ve created an Ethical Diamond Guide, to take you through our thoughts on everything from conflict free diamonds to lab-created diamonds, our favourite the Australian parti sapphire, and even recycled diamonds, you heard it right! Diamonds can be recycled. We also walk through stunning diamond alternatives and give you our expert insights into what would best suit your needs.
Should I choose recycled gold?
Recycled gold is a beautiful way to lower your impact when crafting an ethical engagement ring or wedding band. By choosing recycled gold you don’t need to participate in the process of sourcing new gold and supporting the reintroduction of existing gold into the supply chain. Recycling precious metals is one of the unique opportunities the jewellery industry has to be sustainable. The option to melt down and create an entirely new engagement ring and wedding ring design is one of the truest expressions of sustainability and resourcefulness. Less mining means less toxins going into our waterways as residue from the process and less mercury poisoning to workers separating the gold from the ore. Sign us up!
What is the Kimberley Process?
The Kimberley Process (KP) is an international, multi-stakeholder initiative created to increase transparency and oversight in the diamond industry in order to eliminate trade in conflict diamonds, or rough diamonds sold by rebel groups or their allies to fund conflict against legitimate governments.
The KP, which became operational in 2003, controls trade in rough diamonds between participating countries through domestic implementation of a certification scheme that makes the trade more transparent and secure; and prohibits trade with non-participants. Fifty-four participants representing 82 countries participate in the KP, with industry and civil society participating as observers. Rough diamonds must be shipped in sealed containers and exported with a Kimberley Process Certificate that certifies that the rough diamonds have not benefited rebel movements. This process in itself makes it now virtually impossible to purchase a conflict or unethical white diamond.
If you choose a white diamond for your engagement ring, we always choose certified diamonds as an extra step as GIA and other certifiers would not risk their reputation or business on certifying black market diamonds. In addition to this strict industry protocol, we are able to source diamonds with proven traceability called CanadaMark diamonds that come with their full history in addition or if this is not for you, we can provide you with lab grown alternatives which cuts out the risk altogether as well as being an option that does not contribute to any mining of the earth.
Shop our favourite ethical engagement rings
We have a couple go-tos when it comes to our ethical engagement ring favourites and we’ve included them below, however nothing compares to some of the custom engagement rings we get to create. From couples that bring in their grandparents’ engagement ring to be reimagined or recycled gold being paired with an ethically sourced gemstone, it’s truly something special. If you’re interested in a custom engagement ring, get in touch with our team to start designing your dream bespoke ring together.
Our favourite ethical classic diamond ring:
A classic halo, the centre stone is accented by a halo of diamonds to form a halo as well as along the ring band. Feel the purity of this ethical diamond ring with its GIA certification, so you know it’s only been handled with love and care.
Our favourite ethical Australian parti sapphire:
Here at Windfall Jewellery, we love a parti sapphire and we couldn’t go past our Ellipse Cleo Engagement Ring. She is simple, elegant and ethical – a go-to for someone who wants something a little different but still eye-catching.
Our favourite ethical lab-created diamond engagement ring:
Go bold or go home! You really can go big when working with the lab grown Moissanite. Our Double Halo Moissanite engagement ring is an absolute showstopper and will make your lover feel like the shining crown jewel they are.
Our favourite ethical moissanite diamond engagement ring:
Our Amina Moissanite Engagement Ring has the refinement and elegance that reflects a more gentle side of glamour. The kind that looks expensive without the cost of diamonds – we’re big fans.
