Our guide to finding the one.

Firstly, congratulations on making the leap. You’ve found your soulmate, but why should you choose an ethical engagement ring to show you care?

The question should really be, why not? You are about to commit yourself to a person who is beautiful inside and out, which is exactly how we feel about creating the ring that is to adorn his or her finger.

When you can choose from 100% recycled metal, fairtrade gold, fairmined ecological gold and responsibly sourced diamonds, there really is no excuse not to! You can be assured that your engagement ring will be a uniquely personal piece to be proud of for years to come.

 Why Ethical?

Ethical jewellery is jewellery that has been created respecting the earth and everyone on it. It is a simple concept but with incredible life changing repercussions. For me, the first step is always to know from start to finish, the whole “life” of that jewel. From the very beginning, where those materials come from, to how it was made and how it gets sold.

Ethical jewellery is made with materials that have been mined under sustainable standards (like Fairtrade and Fairmined Gold) and everyone and everything involved in their production has been treated respectfully – including the earth – as well as being paid a fair wage. Ethical jewellery is then manufactured sustainably, where the craftsmen and craftswoman responsible for creating the jewellery have been treated fairly and are proud of their creations. Ethical jewels should be sold under a responsible brand that is fully transparent and communicates accurately this wonderful story to their customers.

How do you know your ring will be ethical?

For us, it is an essential part of our process to provide you with written evidence and assurances that the ring you are buying is not only excellent quality, but certified Fairtrade and ethically sourced. We manage every part of the manufacturing process, we know who engraved your ring, who set the stones and what time of day they set it!

3. How - How to prove all of the above?

It's quite easy to suss the message you get from your jeweller. If they can prove it is ethical, then they will! For us, we like to prove our traceability with certificates and stamps. For example, to ensure your ring is made with fairmined ecological gold, it is stamped with a hallmark at the Assay Office London, which assures you of its provenance. Our larger diamonds (0.3ct and above) are traceable Canadian diamonds and arrive with a GIA certificate or similar. The diamonds also come with the Canada mark, an independently verified certification that assures you the diamond is of Canadian origin.

"Like you, I believe that we can use the beautiful materials that come from the Earth, without harming our blue planet. I believe that by asking questions, simplifying supply chains and sharing knowledge we can achieve this. I am committed to sustainability and traceability of the materials that we use in our jewellery for the long run. I am committed to beautiful jewellery inside out."

Why Brighton?

We are thrilled to be amongst some of the leading authorities in promoting sustainable lifestyles here in this one of a kind City.

Where in Brighton?

Finding the right ring in the right place AND with the right ethics isn't easy, which is why we've narrowed down our top local finds...

For sustainable engagement rings, try Sorrel Bay. Another registered Fairtrade Goldsmiths, designer Marie Walshe uses recycled and Fairtrade gold to create her signature look of organic, handcrafted designs.

For remounting or other bespoke services, visit Baroque Jewellery, in the Lanes. A beautiful, opulent storefront will no doubt entice you in, and knowing that they are Fairtrade Certified will keep you there.

For Antique, look at The Witch Ball. Trading for over 50 years and nestled into the meandering Lanes, it’s worth a wander off the beaten track. Another second hand go-to is Baxter & Hanks. Also specialising in Antique Jewellery, they offer a sparkling range of unique designs. You won’t be disappointed!

If you can't make it into town, why not look online at The Vintage Ring Company? Director Arabel founded The Vintage Ring Company with journalist Claire Roberts to inspire others with original and affordable engagement ring designs from days gone by that will go on to write beautiful new stories of their own.

Finally… Well, you know all about us! We promise that every element of your jewellery with us is traceable, ethical and conflict-free and perfect for those of you looking for a beautifully alternative engagement ring or wedding ring. If you would like to meet us in Brighton, you can visit on Thursdays by appointment only at our showroom in the St Augustine's Centre, Brighton, BN1 6EA. Come and say hello!

Choosing the ring?

The rest is down to you...

We put thought and passion into our engagement rings, much like you must put into a relationship! For us, it wouldn’t be worth it otherwise. If you want to be a part of our ethical journey whilst spoiling the love of your life, then take a look at our collection of luxury, sustainably sourced ethical engagement rings here. For a guide on what to consider when proposing, follow our advice here.

If you have enjoyed this article and would like to learn more about ethical jewellery, make sure you sign up below to receive our newsletter. Don’t forget to give us a call or drop us an email if you need further advice.

Love, Arabel