I'm going through a phase (and like all my phases, it will probably pass) where I feel that the pleasure of buying semi- or -precious stones is outdone by thinking of the damage all that chipping away into our precious planet is doing. The option of all those chemicals used to create other jewellery doesn't appeal, either. It may be illogical but that's where I'm at at the moment. And that won't do QVC or any other retailer any good.
Just sayin.
...not to mention the poor souls likely involved in the backbreaking work of retrieving those stones. I can't judge as I buy things I shouldn't but you're right, rampant consumerism has had a devastating effect on the planet and I'm definitely an offender