The Trend Towards Recycled Metal Engagement Rings

By Rosella Campbell


A couple choosing a ring today is offered many more choices than in the past. One of these options is to go for recycled metal engagement rings. This option has become increasingly popular as awareness grows of the destructiveness of mining and the violations of human rights involved in obtaining the materials to create such items. Couples do not want this symbol of their love to carry these associations.

As the demand for such items increases, so the range of choices grows. There are a number of jewelers who are also increasingly moving towards more ethical, sustainable practices in the jewelry industry. They are committed to sourcing different metals that have already been used as well as stones that are either created in a laboratory or sourced according to fair trade principles.

There is no legislation yet regarding recycling in this industry. This means that it falls on the consumer to make sure that claims being made are authentic. They should not just believe every claim that is made when marketing products. It is important to be able to establish the ecological footprint of a piece and there are jewelers that offer certification of this by third parties.

It is staggering to realize that 20 tons of ore are needed to produce a single gold ring. This fact is often enough to convince individuals who care about the environment to go a different route to using mined materials. The jewelers who use recycled materials have various sources of these such as metals that have been used in industry, those found in existing jewelry and even some found in electronic components.

There is no difference between fresh metal and that which has already been used and is then reduced back to its original state. The quality is identical. It is important to realize this as even though individuals may be committed to ethical practices and protection of the environment, they should not have to sacrifice quality. After all, it is essential that an engagement ring is made to last. Metals like yellow gold and platinum all offer this durability.

The use of stones is also moving away from the traditional white diamond. In part, this is largely due to an increasing awareness of human rights violations incurred in obtaining diamonds. Fortunately, the option now exists of using conflict-free diamonds or steering away from them altogether with non-traditional stones.

They are choosing to use non-traditional stones too. One of the stones proving popular is Moissanite. A substance first found in a meteorite which fell to earth, it is now being created in laboratories. The reason it is popular is because of its brilliance and hardness. Stones like rubies, amethysts and sapphires are also being used.

It seems wrong for many couples today to wear a symbol of their love that is tainted by the means used to create it. They are increasingly choosing to opt for eco-friendly rings that can be worn proudly. Fortunately, the range of such items is increasing all the time. Many stores are found online, offering beautiful selections. Some of these stores offer customization too, whereby unique, original pieces can be created from sketches.




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