An Insider’s Guide to Diamonds: Ethical Sourcing, Sustainability & What to Know

At E.C.One, our mission is to craft beautiful, long-lasting pieces that mark our customers’ stories and diamonds are a huge part of that journey. With almost 30 years of experience, we understand both the beauty of diamonds and the complexities behind their sourcing. Our role is to provide a trusted, transparent guide through an industry that has not always been clear or ethical.

Natural Diamonds & Conflict-Free Sourcing

Natural diamonds, also known as mined diamonds, have a long and complicated history. Since the earliest days of E.C.One, we have been committed to sourcing only conflict-free diamonds, purchased from legitimate suppliers not involved in funding conflict or abuse.

In 2001, we asked all of our diamond suppliers to provide written confirmation that their diamonds were conflict-free - a move that was considered unusual at the time. Following increased global awareness and the introduction of the Kimberley Process in 2003, accountability within the diamond industry began to improve.

All diamonds used at E.C.One continue to come with written guarantees confirming ethical sourcing.

The Impact of Diamond Mining on Communities

Diamond mining plays a significant role in supporting local economies. The natural diamond industry provides livelihoods for around 10 million people worldwide, often in developing regions. In countries such as Botswana, diamonds account for a major share of national exports, highlighting the complex balance between environmental impact and social responsibility.

There is no simple answer when choosing between people and the planet - which is why transparency matters.

 Lab-Grown Diamonds vs Natural Diamonds

Lab-grown diamonds are created under laboratory conditions that replicate the intense heat and pressure found deep within the Earth. Using high-pressure, high-temperature (HPHT) or chemical vapour deposition (CVD) processes, diamonds can be grown over a matter of weeks.

While lab-grown diamonds are often assumed to be more sustainable, the reality is nuanced. When produced using renewable energy, lab-grown diamonds can generate significantly lower CO₂ emissions than mined diamonds. However, many are still produced using fossil fuels, which can result in a carbon footprint comparable to - or greater than - natural diamonds.

Our Commitment to Responsible Lab-Grown Diamonds

At E.C.One, we only use lab-grown diamonds produced using renewable energy. This commitment reflects our ongoing efforts to reduce environmental impact while offering our customers informed, ethical choices. As the lab-grown diamond market evolves, we remain transparent and open about the changes we see.

Are lab-grown diamonds more ethical than natural diamonds?

There is no single answer. Both options have environmental and social considerations, which is why transparency and responsible sourcing are essential.