yes, it's the tradition to go and shell out some serious loot for an engagement ring. however, knowing that you'd be supporting the diamond trade by purchasing an engagement ring and indirectly approving the torture of thousands of people in Africa, does it weigh heavily in your mind?

i haven't needed to face the issue myself, but i do see rings on the finger and think "they should also carry an African boy's hobbled foot in their purse." soo really, American Tradition vs. Global Care: who wins in your mind?

sidenote: i understand you can buy antique rings so the money goes nowhere near the current diamondmongers - BUT - doesn't that still perpetuate the cultural necessity for diamonds?