Brilliant Earth Diamonds are the Planet's Best Friend

As a leader in supplying conflict free diamond jewelry, Brilliant Earth Diamonds is a company also committed to spreading the word regarding socially conscious concerns of the world. With fascinating designs and master craftsmanship, wedding and anniversary rings sparkle on eco-friendly gold or platinum bands with breathtaking Canadian diamonds and fair trade sapphires. Donating 5% of profits to communities plagued by the diamond industry, the company also educates consumers by using the beauty and meanings behind their Brilliant Earth Reflections Collection, thus giving a voice to a handful of inspiring causes in the world. When purchasing an exquisite piece from this collection, you'll support the greater good…and do so in style. Silver Brilliant Earth Diggers Pendant If you've seen the movie, Blood Diamond (with the very own eco-conscious, Leonardo DiCaprio), then you're already familiar with the plight of diamond diggers residing in diamond-rich regions in Africa. Death, famine, child abuse and brutal violence are just some of the hardships that fall upon the shoulders of unwilling participants in a vicious cycle of power and greed. The Digger’s Pendant serves as a reminder of the struggle by encouraging the purchase of fine jewelry through safe and fair trade practices. Black oxidized silver is used to highlight the teardrop imprint of the palm belonging to a diamond digger – thus the name, Digger’s Pendant. A small conflict free diamond completes the design. Sea of Cortez Pearl Pendant This cultured organic pearl pendant with milgrained diamond accent is absolutely enchanting as it hangs from an 18K white gold cable twist chain. Originating from the Sea of Cortez (the Gulf of Mexico), the pearls are a product of a pearl farm established by a group of marine biologists focused on preservation and environmental safety. Chocó Fair Trade Pendant For an eco-conscious 18K yellow gold pendent, the Chocó Fair Trade Pendant offers two decorative sides hailing from what is known as the first true sources of fair-trade gold from Oro Verde. Upholding environmentally responsible harvesting practices, cooperatives in the Chocó region in Colombia, South America produce limited quantities of this exclusive pendant – a treasured find in a world where fair trade gold is limited. With a hand-hammered finish and eye-catching, pre-Colombian petroglyph pattern, the Chocó Fair Trade Pendant allows you to easily make a fashion statement for a good cause. Grape Garnet Dangles To dress the ears in elegant classic style, consider the Silver Grape Garnet Dangles featured in the Brilliant Earth Reflections Collection. Comprised of recycled sterling silver with small Canadian diamond accents, complete your look with the more contemporary Grape Garnet pendant. Image Credits: Brilliant Earth

Marley Coffee Wants You to Stir It Up

Three Little Birds told me, 'Don't Worry, Be Happy, The Sun is Shining and Everything's Gonna Be Alright. While Jammin to whatever beat you follow, Marley Coffee wants you to Get Up, Stand Up and Stir It Up with a variety of organic, eco-conscious, people-conscious coffee. The unforgettable reggae musician Bob Marley is known for touching the world with his words and creativity, but what many people are unaware of – he also harbored a keen interest in farming. Today, one of Marley's sons, Rohan (with friend Shane Whittle) has successfully joined the ranks as a valued and influential manufacturer of international gourmet coffee. Inspired by memories of his grandmother drying wild coffee berries in the sun to roast her own cups of coffee, Rohan Marley wishes to share the same richness and smooth flavor in Marley Coffee. After gaining the approval of the Jamaican Coffee Industry Board (CIB) to transform their private reserve beans into magical brews, Marley Coffee proudly produces shade-grown coffee blends – all certified organic by the USDA and the Pacific Agricultural Certification Society of Canada (PACS). With offices in Vancouver, Los Angeles and Jamaica, the Marley Coffee private estate (located atop the Blue Mountains in Chepstowe, Portland Jamaica) may soon share some of the most sought-after coffee beans in the world with your local grocer. For now, select locations and an online store offer the coffees. In the future, the family hopes to market other Marley-inspired foods and drinks, including grilling sauces, teas, wine, and jellies. An Earth-Conscious Company Marley Coffee is not only organic, but is also shade-grown on bio-diverse land without the help of pesticides, fertilizers, herbicides or any other additives. Grown at an elevation of more than 3000 feet, rainforest-preserving shade trees protect the coffee. By embracing organic farming practices, the overall Marley Coffee process involves healthier soil and decreased water contamination, which also contributes to the preservation of the planet, including habitat for migratory birds. Marley Coffee also sets an example for the ethical treatment of farm workers by paying twice the average wage and providing safe working conditions. It is a company belief that "ethical coffee tastes better." Marley Coffee Flavors

• Simmer Down (Organic Swiss Water Decaf): a mixture of cocoa, nutmeg and West Indian spices.
• Lively Up! (Organic 5-Bean Espresso Blends): imagine a blend of cocoa, caramel and candied fruits.
• One Love (Organic Ethiopian Yirgacheffe): hints of blueberry, cocoa and spice with a cherry finish
• Mystic Morning (Organic Wakeup Coffee): explore cocoa, spice, cedar, cinnamon and cooked pumpkin
• Jammin Java (Organic Bold Full-City Roast): hints of dark chocolate berries with earthy overtones

Giving Back Marley Coffee takes a vested interest in elevating the health and happiness of the workers that contribute to producing their exceptionally aromatic, robust products. The Marley Coffee Foundation not only donates a percentage of all Marley Coffee product sales to improving living conditions and opportunities, but also establishes soccer fields and soccer camps for the children of coffee-producing communities. Interested in tasting a legacy? Some lucky coffee drinkers can easily step into their local shops for instant Marley Coffee gratification, but others must make do by ordering their coffee online. Image Credits: Marley Coffee

DreamSacks – Luxurious Natural Fiber Products

It's impressive when a single company can turn just one travel product into a venture that now creates a wealth of eco-friendly products fashioned from natural fibers, such as silk, bamboo, soy and cashmere. DreamSacks produces an array of luxurious bedding, clothing, and accessories. From saving more than 300 gallons of gas per year driving an all-electric truck to giving back to poverty-stricken communities, Dream Sacks gets an A+ for creating a well-rounded, earth-conscious business. Just a few DreamSacks products to consider: For Women: DreamSacks offers an assortment of pants, skirts, dresses, jackets, and nightwear, such as this Cerise Robe with handcrafted knotted closures. Comprised of sheer silk and rayon, the robe comes in a seductive Chocolate with Cielo Blue trim (shown) or relaxing Green Tea with Vanilla trim. A selection of garments for expecting mothers includes an array of colorful tunics, gowns, and pajama sets. For Men: From breathable bamboo boxer shorts to comfy lounge pants, DreamSacks accommodates men with fashionable eco-friendly clothing and undergarments. For example, the Charmeuse Men's Robe provides a loose fit, two convenient pockets, and matching belt. Comprised of Charmeuse silk, women aren’t the only ones slipping into something a bit more comfortable. Available in Black and Chocolate Brown. For Baby: DreamSacks has your little one covered from top to bottom with eco-friendly baby hats and pesticide-free bamboo socks. Accessories and gifts sets include knit baby blankets, bibs, and natural fiber crib sheets. When shopping for an eco-conscious mama-to-be, consider the BabyDreams Collection Gift Set & Outfit ($84) – consisting of a Lemongrass with Nectar trim blanket, Lemongrass Long Sleeve Tee & Pants, and nectar hat and socks. This set is available for babies 3 to 6 months. Bedding: Your bedroom serves as your sanctuary and what better items to enhance your slumber than with DreamSack bedding that includes Handstitched Habotai Silk Coverlet Pillow Shams ($105) and Reversible Silk Charmeuse Coverlets ($378). This BambooDreams Sheet Set ($216) offers a 250-thread count bottom fitted sheet, flat sheet, and two pillowcases that accommodates Queen, King, California King, and Twin beds. Available in Green Tea, Rain, Natural, Almond, and Sienna. Travel: Whether at home or in the air, you want a luxurious slumber during your jet-setting adventures and the Luxury Travel Kit ($196) aims to place you in first-class surroundings no matter where you may be. For in-flight comfort and hotel room relief, your set will include a Silk/Cashmere blanket (42"x76"), Charmeuse Silk Eyeshades, and an outer bag that doubles as a pillowcase. Available in Chocolate with Cielo Blue. Giving Back I'd also like to applaud DreamSacks for not only their contribution to preserving the environment, but also their effort to give back to less-fortunate communities. DreamSacks supports Coaching for Hope (an organization that uses soccer to fight the HIV and AIDS epidemic in Africa; Hwa Nan Women's College (provides advanced degrees to women in China); and Mercy Corps (helping people beat impossible odds, disasters, and chronic poverty). Image Credits: DreamSacks

Cmarchuska: Eco-Friendly Clothing + Charity = A Welcomed Change in Fashion

What do you get when you blend childhood dreams, business savvy, compassion, and zeal for environmentally conscious fashion? A winning combination taking the latest wave of eco-friendly clothing lines to the next level. There's nothing like the tightening grip of economic instability to push you towards your calling in life. Just ask Christine Marchuska – former financial wizard turned luxury 'green' clothing entrepreneur. She left behind a souring Wall Street to successfully mold her personal interests into an ever-evolving company – cmarchuska. With a fresh take on luxury eco-wear, Marchuska brings sustainable, high quality fabrics to life with a commitment to comfort and style. Pieces within the cmarchuska Signature Collection consist of fine organic and recycled materials with a color palette of pristine white, noir black and vert green. When you enter the world of cmarchuska, prepare yourself for:

• High fashion cuts
• Flattering pieces that don’t place strain on the environment
• The flirty 'Samantha' A-line, V-neck sundress
• Agreeable return policy (but why would you ever want to?)
• 5% of net proceeds going to charitable organizations
• Free shipping!

I've been told that the christine dress and hunter scarf have been causing quite a stir…but you must see for yourself! This February, the ECOCOLLECTION/MAGIC fashion trade show held in Las Vegas will unveil the cmarchuska spring/summer 09' line. Can't wait until the show? Order online or visit m.y. boutique in Binghamton, NY and the PILATES room in Ithaca, NY. Featured pieces: Christine dress ($130) 50% cotton, 50% modal fabric Recycled Italian polyester buttons Hunter scarf ($50) Organic blend of modal and silk