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Our friends at Luxist turned us on to diamond hybrids. If you're concerned about blood diamonds or just the environmental impact of diamond mining, you may be looking for alternatives.

Anna-Mieke Anderson became involved in the diamond simulant industry after learning about the history of her own diamond engagement ring. She researched conflict-free diamonds, but decided that just wasn't enough. She eventually found out about diamond seeding, a technology first developed by NASA. The resultant stones are hybrids that are both simulant and man-made diamond crystal.

MiaDonna, Anna-Mieke's company, focuses primarily on engagement and wedding rings. Their stones are graded through Global Gem Lab and guaranteed for life.

In fact, Anna-Mieke is so concerned about the global impact of diamond mining that she has started a non-profit foundation called Greener Diamond. Their goal is to give back to those affected by the blood diamond industry. Check out some of MiaDonna's wedding and engagement rings in the gallery. You can also read more of the interview at Luxist.