Ethical concerns: Matching Rings For Couples
We've covered a lot, but we must not forget this ethical elephant. The source of your Cute Relationship Bracelets diamond is important. Diamonds are mined traditionally out of the earth. However, this has been linked to a variety of environmental and ethical issues that include conflict diamonds and environmental degradation.
Lab-grown diamonds may be a less expensive and more ethical alternative. These diamonds are grown in controlled environments, and are almost identical to the mined diamonds chemically and aesthetically.
In a study by the International Grown Diamond Association, 66% of millennials see lab-grown diamonds as engagement rings. This is a clear sign of the shift in consumer awareness towards ethical purchasing.
Practical tip: When buying a stone grown in a lab, make sure it's accredited by a credible laboratory. This verifies its quality and ensures you're purchasing a genuinely lab-grown stone.
If you're leaning towards a mined diamond, search for one that is certified conflict-free. Ask your jeweler for the diamond that is compliant with the Kimberley Process, which aims to end the trade in conflict diamonds.
If you decide to go for mined or lab-grown materials, your choice should align with your values and those of your partner. A wedding ring is, in essence, a sign of your commitment to each other for the rest of time.
Talk to the Experts Highly regarded Sources of Advice
You don't have to do it on your own. Consult the experts. These experts, ranging from certified gemologists to reputable jewelers, can help you navigate through a minefield of ring choices, ensuring that you get the most value for your buck.
Start by reading reviews, or seeking out recommendations for reliable jewelers. Personal recommendations from family and friends who have gone through the process may be very valuable.
A certified gemologist can assist you in making an informed decision by giving you a better understanding of the Four Cs. They also can provide an impartial opinion since they aren't typically an interest in making purchases.
Practical advice: If you're buying online, be sure to go over the return policy thoroughly. Online jewelers that are trustworthy should have an exchange policy that is hassle-free in the event that you don't love the ring.
Forums, blogs, and websites dedicated to jewelry and gemology can also be valuable sources. Be cautious with any information that sounds too good to be real or is blatantly advertising. When in doubt make sure to cross-reference the information from multiple reliable sources.
You are the ultimate expert. You know your girlfriend better than anyone else. Make use of expert advice only as a reference point and not as gospel.