You see those little flecks of (gold/silver) on the band? Most metalworkers collect these tiny filings and metal scraps that are made during the finishing stages of jewelry-making and send them out for refining. There, the scraps are melted back into bigger pieces and shipped back out to jewelers — a great first step in the metal reuse process. But at Forge & Fountain, they skip the extra fuel consumption involved in refining. Instead, Josh and Holly sprinkle gold or silver grains across the surface of a ring to make their signature moondust texture. It's one of their favorite styles to create.

Are you looking to breathe new life into a family heirloom piece or a vintage ring? We know just the place for you! Bario Neal is an amazing jeweler, not to mention they are an ethical company run by WOMEN. We have profiled their gorgeous, creative, inspiring jewelry before, and we have talked to them extensively about using white sapphires as an ethical diamond alternative. What always amazes us is that many of their rings are one-off pieces created for a special individual, often recycling family pieces.

Are you looking for the perfect engagement ring that will match your personality and your star chart? Are you maybe a little into astrology, moon phases, and all things woo woo? If so, then this roundup of gorgeous rings from ethical and independent jeweler Bario Neal will show you what’s in store for you this season and help you find the perfect engagement ring for your astrological sign.

Jasmine is joined by artist and metalsmith Mariele Ivy, to discuss her unique engagement ring sets that marry inlaid stone with brilliant cut diamonds. Together they discuss choosing an engagement and wedding ring that works with your lifestyle, living a creative life, and how the suggestion of a stranger can send your life in unexpected directions.

Many jewelry retailers have jumped on the ethical bandwagon or tout conflict-free diamonds, but what does ethical really mean for the conscientious shopper about to commit to an engagement ring or wedding band? How do you cut through the noise and the the green-washing to get to the truth? What questions should you ask to ensure that your rings are made with standards that address glaring issues like unsafe working conditions at mines and cutting facilities, the environmental effects of mining, and child labor? The following tips should help you navigate through the complex process of choosing truly ethical wedding rings, and create a ring that both represents and supports love and progress.