Why Wood and Diamonds Make the Ultimate Statement in Eco-Chic Accessor

Merging fashion with sustainability can often feel like a daunting task - especially if you are on a journey toward finding your personal style. But that’s exactly where incorporating wood and diamonds into your accessories can open us a new realm of eco-chic possibilities! 

From elegant jewelry pieces that blend the raw beauty of wood and the shine of ethically sourced diamonds to innovative accessories like wooden watches and bow ties, this unique combination can showcase both your personal style and your commitment to the environment. 

Learn how you can make a statement that not only looks good but also does good for the planet in this guide. 

Showcase Your Values by Opting for Ethically Sourced Materials

Understanding the origins of the materials in your accessories and the sustainability practices of producers is crucial, especially if you are looking to live a more eco-friendly lifestyle or reduce your environmental impact.

But getting started with such in-depth research can be challenging, especially when navigating the world of greenwashing and advertising. 

Fortunately, there are some simple steps that allow you to ensure that your chosen pieces have been sources ethically and responsibly: 

• 
  Research the sourcing practices of brands
• Look for certifications that indicate responsible sourcing
• Support brands committed to reducing their carbon footprint
• Inquire about the traceability of the materials used
• Favor companies that invest in sustainable development projects

With these strategies in your arsenal, you can shop for gemstones and jewelry confidently!

So, you can find the perfect black diamond ring that isn’t just beautiful but also unique and sustainable!

Connect To Nature: Embrace the Sustainability of Wood

Notoriously, the fashion industry is one of the sectors with the greatest environmental impact, due to the use of materials like plastic and metal, which often leave a significant ecological footprint. After all, it doesn't come as a surprise that the extraction and processing of these materials contribute to deforestation, water pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. 

In contrast, wood can represent a beacon of sustainability. When sourced responsibly, wood does not deplete natural resources or destroy habitats. It's renewable, biodegradable, and requires minimal processing, reducing its overall environmental impact. In other words, by choosing wooden accessories, you not only make a style statement but also a commitment to preserving nature's beauty for future generations!

Opt for Handcrafted and Unique Pieces

Merging the raw elegance of wood with the timeless beauty of diamonds requires not just materials, but a sense of style - handcrafted pieces stand out here. Looking for a more eclectic look? Consider layering multiple handcrafted pieces to keep your style unique but cohesive!

Here are just a few of the benefits of opting for handcrafted pieces over mass-produced alternatives:

• Reflect personal style more accurately.
• Promote small businesses and artisans.
• Usually higher in quality due to individual craftsmanship.
• Eco-friendlier, as they often use locally sourced materials.
• Each piece has its own story, adding to its value.

Choose Durability and Timelessness

While diamonds, ranking high on the Mohs scale, are the epitome of durability and wearability, not all gemstones or metals share this resilience. For example, sapphire and ruby are commendable alternatives, both scoring 9 on the Mohs scale. On the other hand, opals, pearls, and amber rank very low on the Mohs scale, making them unsuitable for jewelry intended to be worn everyday, like an engagement ring. Similarly, in metals, platinum and titanium stand out for their enduring qualities, while lead, gold, and silver aren’t as durable. 

However, the resilience of wood in jewelry often goes unnoticed. The Janka scale measures wood's hardness and, by extension, its suitability for daily wear. 

Hardwoods like Ebony and Teak are ideal for jewelry, offering durability and a rich aesthetic. Oppositely, woods like Balsa and Pine, scoring lower on the Janka scale, are less suited for accessories that withstand the test of time. Be sure to speak to an expert jeweler to better understand the features and limitations of the materials you’ve chosen. 

Highlight the Natural Beauty of Your Diamond Through Contrast

Silver and other metallic jewelry can sometimes overshadow the brilliance of a diamond. In contrast, wood provides a completely different texture and feel. Its organic, earthy background accentuates the diamond's natural sparkle and depth, allowing its true beauty to shine through. 

Ultimately, not only is combining wood and diamond an excellent option to make your most precious gemstones stand out, but this style choice can also showcase your values - including the commitment to eco-friendly pieces and ethically-sourced materials. 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Olivia Poglianich          

Content Strategist

Olivia Poglianich is a nomadic brand strategist and copywriter in the ski and snowboard space who has worked with brands such as Visa, Disney and Grey Goose. Her writing has taken her all over the world, from a Serbian music festival to a Malaysian art and culture event. Olivia is a graduate of Cornell University and is often writing or reading about travel, hospitality, the start-up ecosystem or career coaching. Her latest interests are at the intersection of web3 and communal living, both on and offline.