Ethical Design Spotlight – Todd Reed

For most Women jewellery, and I mean *real* jewellery, not the costume pieces you pick up in Topshop, is probably a once or twice in a life time purchase at most. More commonly it’s received as a gift. It’s such a shame that such an emotional gift, given in love, is so often the product of conflict and environmental disaster. (For more information on Conflict Diamonds and Gold Mining try Wikipedia.)

Todd Reed makes stunning, unique pieces using raw diamonds and recycled gold. All of which are hand made in his studio in Colorado. He makes all of his purchasing decisions himself ensuring that he has complete control over choosing environmentally friendly components and processes, including antique, ethical and eco friendly sources for his diamonds.

“Right relationship with the earth, people and our natural and social environment as a whole are at the heart of all decisions within the company.”

His range includes rings, earrings, pins, necklaces and bracelets as well as a range designed specifically for Men including rings and cuff links and the price ranges from $600-$350,000.
The style of his pieces ranges from an unusual, almost industrial, look to more classical designs. If you were looking to buy a ring for instance (Summer is peak time for proposals surely? All those weddings and too much Champagne?) you could chose this unusual chunky silver and 18k gold ring with a 10.02ctw raw diamond.
Alternatively if you were looking for a more understated and classic look this 18k gold eternity band, set with brilliant cut diamonds is just as beautiful.

Personally I am utterly in love with his cuffs, if anyone happens to have money to burn and insufferable urge to make random gifts to impoverished bloggers then please feel free to pick one for me, though my particular favourites are these 2. Living an ethical life certainly doesn’t have to mean giving up on luxury.