Has the Kimberley Process been undermined?

The recent news, reported to us recently by Ingle & Rhode, that Zimbabwe will once again be included within the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme is hugely disappointing.

The Marange diamond fields in Zimbabwe contain the most significant find of diamonds the world has seen for many years. Since 2009 these diamonds had been refused Kimberley Process (KP) accreditation as a result of human rights abuses and alleged non-compliance with the KP certification requirements.

Posted in Green Wedding Conflict Free , Jewellery , News

Perfect rings for a perfect match

Valentines day is fast approaching, a busy time for proposals and, since Wills popped the question to Kate with that sapphire ring, it seems alternative coloured gemstones are all the rage for engagements.

And with impeccable timing CRED have launched their Eden range of engagement and wedding rings with a fabulous collection of traceable and naturally coloured stones set in Oro Verde Fair Trade 18 ct green gold and platinum.

They’re not only gorgeous but also ethical and completely comparative in price to un-ethical rings!

CRED collections, are available online, instore at their Chichester boutique or by appointment at their London studio.

Posted in Green Wedding Conflict Free , Gifts & Favours , Jewellery

Ethical diamonds are a girl's best friend - 15% discount!

Following Prince William's proposal to Kate Middleton with his mother's sapphire engagement ring, alternative gemstones will be all the rage for engagements in 2011, and we think ethical diamonds are a part of that alternative choice.

Brides determined to express their individual style and avoid conflict diamonds are demanding rings designed with Canadian traceable diamonds, synthetic diamonds and traceable coloured stones like sapphires, amethysts, emeralds and rubies.

The Leblas Ethical Jewellery boutique in Chelsea, London, who is offering all our readers a 15% discount on any purchase in their boutique, has a unique variety of gorgeous wedding, engagement, and commitment rings. They are committed to providing high quality design as well as upholding a clear ethical stance: making modern designed jewellery through sustainable practices.

Posted in Green Wedding Conflict Free , Ethical Vendors , Jewellery

20% discount off ethical wedding & engagement rings

We're delighted to announce that Leblas Ethical Jewellery is offering GreenUnion visitors a 20% discount off all its ethical wedding and engagement rings until 31st July 2010. For more information and to take advantage of this offer go to their website www.leblas.com and quote promotional code “greenunion”.

You can choose from their unique collection of ethical wedding, engagement and commitment rings which are all made using only recycled 18ct white and yellow gold, traceable gemstones, and conflict-free diamonds. Every ring is made with traditional artistry and modern design.

With their 4 distinct band shapes: Almond, Together, Round, and Double Leblas carries a unique variety of beautiful diamond sets, such as “The Leaf Diamond Band” and “The Double Diamond” - this season’s hottest sellers.

Posted in Green Wedding Conflict Free , Ethical Vendors , Fair Trade , Jewellery , Special Offers

Fair trade jewellery on show

We're celebrating the very first international collective show of the best designers in the emerging ethical jewellery movement.

ESSENCE, hosted by CRED, is a space set aside to showcase a group of designers who share the vision that sustainable products do not have to sacrifice design or quality and are committed to sourcing all their materials and managing their business in a way that is socially, environmentally and culturally responsible.

ESSENCE is part of the Treasure exhibition, a centrepiece for London Jewellery Week, and is showcasing leading ethical jewelry designers including GreenUnion partners April Doubleday, Leblas and CRED's own stunning designer collections made from Oro Verde Fair Trade gold and platinum, recycled silver plus a range of jewellery from 6 emerging student designers from London Metropolitan University. All these dedicated and committed ethical jewellers offer stunning bridal collections and prices start from just £20.

SPECIAL OFFER!
Contact CRED by email or phone 01243 773588 to claim a 2 for 1 voucher for entrance to the show.

Posted in Green Wedding Conflict Free , Ethical Vendors , Events , Fair Trade , Jewellery