In today’s world, we find ourselves with the responsibility of sustaining our earth’s resources. We realize that our resources are limited and our footprint on the environment can either be soft or destructive. We try to recycle, drive fuel-efficient cars, and try to lessen our overall impact on the environment.
However, very few of us think about how our wedding jewelry and how these pieces are created may be an impact. For instance, metal mining can be a particularly destructive activity. Did you know that it takes 20 tons (yes, tons) of ore to produce the amount of gold needed for a single ring? Many of these gold mines may also release mercury and cyanide into water resources.
Also, diamonds can be a serious impact on the environment, including the human toll. Conflict diamonds have become known to be associated with human rights abuses. These diamonds, during the mining process, have damaged the lands from which they are taken.
Currently, there is a movement to bring more eco-friendly jewelry to the market. These pieces use conflict-free diamonds as well as recycled gold. Other eco-friendly jewelry pieces are being created using materials such as pearls, plain metals, wood, and bone.
Now a prospective bride and groom can choose to select wedding sets that are environmentally friendly. In addition, many bridal dress designers are also designing and creating eco-couture. These designers include Annatarian. Designer Ann Mkhitarian also creates dresses and other clothing that supports the planet and the people who live there. Her designs have been seen on several television shows. Another eco-couture designer is Leanne Marshall, a Project Runway winner. Many of her creations use sustainable materials and textiles such as post-industrial recycled polyester. Other earth-friendly designers include Olivia Luca and Natural Bridals.
As you can see, even a wedding can be environmentally friendly.