Gents, take note: Promise her the world, and show her that you will care for it — all at the same time. Be the hero she already thinks you are, and show your beautiful wife-to-be just how much she means to you. When it comes time to ask her that all-too-famous — and highly-anticipated — question, consider getting an earth-friendly engagement ring.

Let’s forget about blood diamonds by remembering that there is so much controversy involved with mining them. Recently, the movie aptly named Blood Diamond brought this conflict back to the forefront of media awareness. However, this has been going on well before this movie was even made and many people were already familiar with the issue. For this very reason, many couples have now opted to skip the icy bobbles entirely. Fortunately, globally conscious lovebirds can carry on with the sparkling tradition of engagement rings because there are alternatives.

Sacrificing the glitz of a diamond — or the feeling that comes with wearing one — won’t be necessary. Nor will the contribution to the unethical treatment of miners, thanks to San Francisco-based Brilliant Earth. The company was launched by Beth Gerstein and Eric Grossberg after Gerstein’s fiancé, who wanted to propose, could not find a conflict free diamond. Gerstein decided that conflict-free diamonds needed to become more accessible — and so did Grossberg, who did research about the issue at Stanford.  So, together, they created Brilliant Earth in order to provide an Earth - and miner-friendly alternative to people in the same predicament.

According to the site, “All of our diamonds come from Canadian mines that follow environmentally sustainable practices and are committed to delivering high quality gems. Our well-established suppliers authenticate the source of their diamonds as conflict free and follow established domestic business practices.”

Brilliant Earth also dedicates 5% of its profits to directly benefit local African communities harmed by the diamond industry. So, even if you’re not in the market for an engagement ring, you can still support the cause. They offer other fine jewelry pieces like earrings, necklaces, pearl jewelry and other personalized jewelry, so you can still find great gifts from Brilliant Earth. Something like the Diggers Pendant would be a thoughtful addition to anyone’s jewelry box.•

Photos by - wikimedia commons, polyvore