San Francisco-based jeweler Brilliant Earth was established when newly engaged co-founder Beth Gerstein was struggling to find a conflict-free diamond engagement ring.  Gerstein and friend Eric Grossberg’s solution was to launch Brilliant Earth, an online jeweler dedicated to providing socially and ethically responsible diamonds.  All of Brilliant Earth’s gemstones are derived from environmentally-sustainable Canadian mines from which all stones are carefully tracked to ensure the supply is not corrupted with illicit diamonds.

What exactly are conflict diamonds? The terms “conflict diamond” and “blood diamond” refer to those used to fund wars, human rights abuses, child labor and terrorist organizations in regions such as Sierra Leone and Angola.  You can read more about the issues surrounding “conflict diamonds” at diamondfacts.org.

Because gold mining is highly destructive to the environment due to extensive blasting and use of cyanide toxins in the extraction process, Brilliant Earth uses metals derived from recycled jewelry or industrial products that are re-refined to guarantee their quality matches that of newly-minted gold and platinum.  In addition, it dedicates 5% of its profits to directly benefit local African communities harmed by the conventional diamond industry.

Brilliant Earth’s comprehensive site has a large variety of classic, traditional and modern wedding bands and engagement rings, as well as an online ring builder.  If you have your own unique and special ring in mind, the company also offers custom jewelry design consultation.  Other fine jewelry such as earrings, pendants, as well as loose diamonds are available as well – and all of it is socially and environmentally responsible.

ydt DEAL Alert: Through September 15th, purchase any two wedding rings at Brilliant Earth, and receive a complimentary bottle of Fleur de l’Europe organic French Champagne from Bottlenotes with offer code: YDTCHWB.