We Tried This Ethical Alternative to Diamond Jewelry

We've said it before, but we'll say it again – diamonds might be a girl's best friend, but are they really the planet's? Once you start digging into the details, it's clear that the statement gem of generations past and present is dirtier than you think.

Diamond mining contributes to habitat and ocean destruction, earth displacement, and stones are most often mined by people who don't have a say in their working hours or wages.

If you've got your heart set on a diamond, make sure to pick up something that was preloved. If you're looking for a new, sparkly, ethical option, we're excited to recommend Diamond Nexus. They create gorgeous, lab created diamond simulates that cost up to 80% less than mined diamonds. Plus, it's clear that Diamond Nexus cares about providing a sustainable option while educating more about the environmental impact of authentic diamonds.

Our Review of Diamond Nexus

Every brand and product that we recommend on Brightly has either been tested directly by our team or by our community to ensure the product is high quality, plus we research our partners to ensure they maintain ethical + sustainable business practices (see more on how we vet here.) Our team took a few pieces for a test spin to see how jewelry options from Diamond Nexus held up to everyday life.

From Brightly co-founder Laura Alexander Wittig:

It’s honestly been a challenge for me to reconcile my love of diamonds with the fact that they’re not always from sustainable sources, so I was excited when we started partnering with the creators of a new way to wear gorgeous jewelry without the guilt.

Laura paired the East West Radiant Necklace and Round Cut Studs with a few ethical outfits (featuring Amour Vert, Deadwood to name a few!) as she met friends for a drink and ran some errands. She got compliments on both pieces and thought they elevated her everyday looks with style.

From Brightly co-founder Liza Moiseeva:

My jewelry style is definitely minimalistic. You’ll almost never find me in a diamond shop! But when two years ago I was invited to participate in Diamond Nexus’ Changemakers campaign and browsed their pieces, I quickly fell in love with a simple stack of bands. I have been proudly wearing an enchanting set of rose gold rings ever since.

Liza wore a "ring party" composed of the Deco Elan Ring Set and the Miami and Manhattan rings while trying out some clean beauty samples (we try to review as many ethical and sustainable products as we can!)

Overall, we recommend Diamond Nexus based on its' efforts to offer ethically-made products at reasonable prices, while making a positive impact on the planet. If you're looking to add some new pieces to your collection or want to point someone in the right direction, don't hesitate to add a piece to your wishlist.