Posted by Janet Harriett on Feb.14, 2010

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6.  Vintage Jewelry

Reduce the demand for newly-mined precious metals and gemstones by choosing vintage jewelry from antique dealers and pawnshops instead of newly-made baubles from a jeweler. Some vintage jewelry, particularly at lower price points, are made from a mix of metals that may contain lead. Pewter is a tin alloy that is often made with lead. Test jewelry for lead and keep items secured away from small children.

5. Live African Violet

Violets, rather than roses, are the flower traditionally associated with St. Valentine. While the african violet is from a different botanical family than the violet of St. Valentine’s story, it is a hardy and beautiful houseplant. Live plants, in general, are a better choice than cut roses.

4.  Organic Chocolate

Aside from being a tasty indulgence, chocolate contains beneficial flavinoids. Choose organic chocolates with a high percentage of cacao for the healthiest chocolate hit.

3.  Massage Gift Certificate

Massage is relaxing and boosts both blood and lymph circulation; abdominal massage can even help digestion. Massage oils also give a light all-over moisturizing. While most massage therapists are booked well in advance for Valentine’s Day, many provide gift certificates. If your Valentine is reluctant to go to a spa for a massage, try one of the many independent massage therapists. Look for state licensing or national certification to ensure that you’re getting a professional, trained massage therapist.

2.  Healthy Cooking Classes

Enrolling in a cooking class for two can be a fun shared experience and teach you healthy food preparation methods that you can take to your own kitchen. Classes can give you a chance to test out ingredients and methods you might not try on your own, and usually include sampling the results at the end.

1.  Something Personal

A thoughtful, well-chosen gift that takes your loved one’s interests into account is one of the greenest gifts of all. It doesn’t matter how green-certified, organic, or energy-efficient something is if it just sits on a shelf unused. Surprise your Valentine with that thing they’ve had their eye on.

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Posted under Eco-Friendly Ideas, Living.