Conflict-free diamonds are increasingly popular with those who wish their fabulous stones to shine for the right cause. A conflict-free diamond is mined not for any engagement with armed conflict or human rights abuses. They aren’t tainted by war and exploitation.
You may be familiar with the term “blood diamond,” particularly if you watched the 2006 movie Blood Diamond. This popular film depicted the harsh truth surrounding diamonds extracted within war zones. These “gems of love” were bought and sold to fund death and civil war.
Difference Between Conflict-Free and Ethical Diamonds
Ethically sourced diamonds are mined and sold through transparent, legitimate, and responsible practices. In this case, sustainability, fair wages, safe working conditions, and limited environmental and community impact. By purchasing ethical diamonds, consumers support efforts that do more than avoid negative human conditions. Instead, they contribute to programs that improve the state of mining communities and preserve natural habitats.
The United States has strict laws about conflict diamonds. The Clean Diamond Trade Act is a law that was passed in 2003. This law adopts the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme. This safeguards that diamonds being imported are conflict-free. All of this is with the benefit of the consumer in mind. Despite a lack of awareness in this regard, consumers can trust that the diamonds they are purchasing were not funded through exploitation and violence.
The Kimberley Process
The Kimberley Process was created in 2003 as a partnership of governments, industry, and civil society aimed at curbing the trade of conflict diamonds used by rebel militias to finance wars and human rights abuses. Named after Kimberley, South Africa, where the initiative was first discussed, the goal of the process was to ensure that diamond trade becomes transparent so that diamonds come with a guarantee that they are conflict-free.
Implemented by member states, the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) exercises control over the production and trade of rough diamonds. The process necessitates that each rough diamond shipment is exported legally using the internationally accepted KP certificate, assuring its conflict-free origin. This certificate is granted only after the KP requirements have been met. These include conditions that the minerals must not be mined, shipped, and sold to fund armed rebellion against the government.
The certification process involves several key steps:
- Extraction and Documentation: Diamonds are mined and documented at the source.
- Export and Certification: Diamonds are inspected and certified by a government body as they leave the producing country.
- Import and Verification: On arrival in the importing country, the diamonds and accompanying certificates are checked and verified.
- Market Entry: Certified diamonds can then enter the consumer market.
The KP contributes significantly to reducing the flow of conflict diamonds. The Certification Scheme has generally stopped conflict diamonds from entering legitimate trade, promoting peace in the production and trading areas.
While the Kimberley Process’s purpose is to curtail conflict diamonds sold to fund conflict, it has its deficits, such as potential loopholes and enforcement challenges. Purchasing from reputable dealers is your first and best defense. This not only supports legit trade but peace and well-being in diamond-producing areas.
Alternatives to Conflict Diamonds
Recycled Diamonds
Recycled diamonds are second-hand diamonds re-entering the market. They are taken from old jewelry pieces, reducing the need for mining as a diamond sourcing option. This has numerous advantages, including reduced footprint of environmental degradation, eliminating unethical mining concerns, and providing consumers with a green alternative. Buyers choosing recycled diamonds fuel circular economies and save natural resources.
Canadian Diamonds
Canada is famous for their secure mining practices. Canadian diamonds are mined with strict regulations to protect the environment and the safety of miners. The CanadaMark program certifies the diamond is from Canada and categorizes it as mined through ethical procedures. This gives peace of mind to the buyer that they are buying ethically mined diamonds. Moreover, Canadian diamonds are usually traceable from the mine to the market, and that cultivates trust.
Kalahari Dream Diamonds
Kalahari Dream Diamonds are a new environmentally friendly diamond option available from Botswana. These diamonds support local areas and are mined following ethical practices. The program ensures fair wages, safe working conditions, and investment in development programs. When consumers purchase Kalahari Dream Diamonds, they support sustainability and ethical practices in one of the world’s biggest diamond haunts.
Lab-Created Diamonds
Lab-created diamonds (or synthetic diamonds) are produced in a lab through cutting-edge technological methods. They are the same as natural diamonds, chemically and physically, but don’t require mining. The pros? These diamonds are less expensive and less harmful to the environment. They are also guaranteed conflict-free. However, some consumers may prefer the rarity and cultural value of the traditional diamond.
Gemstone Alternatives
For those looking for alternatives for diamonds, sapphires and emeralds are striking choices. Both come in a swirl of colors, can be mined ethically, and offer a unique style and refined beauty. Sapphires and emeralds have rich tales and meanings, offering a special touch. When looking for diamond alternatives in gemstones, you want to ensure they are ethically sourced.
Where to Buy Conflict Free Diamonds?
Today, many jewelers in the US and other countries offer conflict-free diamonds, with some going the extra mile to ensure their diamonds are mined and transported ethically. If you’re looking to buy conflict-free diamonds, consider reputable local jewelers who provide certified diamonds and maintain transparency about their sourcing.
Online jewelry shops can also be excellent options, if they offer 360° views of their diamonds and guarantee they are ethically sourced and certified by the Kimberley Process. By choosing these options, you can confidently purchase conflict-free diamonds that are mined and transported with high ethical standards.
Also check out Eco-Stylist certified brand Brilliant Earth for ethical diamond jewelry.
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