As soon as you announce your engagement, what do people want to see most? Of course, it's the ring! Don't be shocked when friends, family and even acquaintances grab your left hand and pull it close to their eyes. Just like it's a knee jerk reaction for others to want to see the ring, it will be just as instinctive for you to show it off. A ring that would strike up more conversation and intrigue would be an eco-friendly one. And what better way to show others how to have fabulous bling without breaking your promises to the environment?

Looking Behind a Diamond's Stunning Sparkle

Celebrities have made it hard for brides-to-be to resist jaw-shocking diamonds such as the 6-carat radiant-shaped pink diamond that Jennifer Lopez wore on her finger when she was engaged to Ben Affleck. Large diamonds will probably never go out of style, but you can at least make some decisions about your ring that will have less impact on the planet.

Because diamonds are mined from the Earth, there are consequences. Not only is the land disturbed, but also energy and water are used in the process. In addition, emissions from the activity pollute the air and affect the wildlife and natural habitats. Many natural resources are involved just to produce that shiny diamond you desire, and although the diamond mining industry is making efforts to strike a balance and be more environmentally responsible, it's important for you to do your part as a consumer. Your engagement and wedding rings symbolize your love, but what you choose can also send a powerful message to the industry too. Then your compassion for the planet and love of your spouse can shine right from your finger.

Engagement Rings That Make Everyone Green with Envy

Engagement rings are the first step toward making a commitment to share your life with someone else, which is why there is so much excitement surrounded around the ring. After the ring, everything else seems to go in place: the bridal shower, the bachelorette and bachelor parties, the marriage and the honeymoon. With all of the commotion and eagerness to plan, it's easy to fall off of the green wagon. However, if you back up and choose an eco-friendly engagement ring, you can start on the right foot and make everyone jealous while you're at it.

Yes, it's essential to buy the ring you're in love with, but it comes with a price and often a high one. Plus, you have to think about this too: do you really want your fiancé to be making payments on the ring for what can seem like an eternity? Don't start crying just yet, because you have options.

An engagement ring that has been passed down can be an honor to wear, and you would be reusing a ring, which is even better. Even if you dislike the setting and the band, you can at least salvage the diamond and put the diamond on a band that makes your heart pitter-patter. If this isn't an option, look for ethically sourced gems and consider lab-created gems. Although you might look down on fake diamonds, no one will know unless you tell them.

An Everlasting Wedding Band

Your wedding band might be a simple gold or platinum band, or maybe you will add some pizzazz to it with round or baguette diamonds. When it comes to the diamonds, make sure they are ethically sourced or lab-created. The band is another story.

If you want a simple band, why not search antique jewelry shops and estate sales for a used band? You can easily personalize it with an engraving. You might even find one with a romantic story behind it, and wearing the band would be like bringing that love story back to life.

Now if you prefer a new band, put jewelry made from recycled metals at the top of your list. Instead of supporting more gold mining, you can benefit from the gold or platinum that is already available. Depending on where you go, you could create a custom design with the recycled metals. What more could a bride ask for?

Eco-friendly Rings Can Signify Status and Love

Just because you want the biggest and brightest diamond doesn't mean you can only get your desired look from virgin materials. Choosing a conflict-free diamond is a conscious choice, but you need to go further by selecting ethically sourced gems set on recycled metals. By being more particular about your rings, your compassion for the planet will really sparkle.

-- Marina Hanes