What are conflict diamonds? Conflict diamonds are diamonds that came from areas controlled by groups who oppose the government. The money obtained from the sale of these “rough diamonds” is used to finance wars against governments around the globe. Conflict diamonds are usually obtained through horrendous abuses of human rights.
To combat the trafficking of conflict diamonds in global markets, diamond industry leaders and non-government organizations formed a system called the Kimberly Process which is designed to ensure that the diamond you bought is legitimate and conflict-free.
Before member countries can ship rough diamonds as conflict-free they must meet the extensive requirements set by the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS). This is to make sure that conflict diamonds will not enter legitimate trade. Under the provisions of the KPCS, member countries must:
“meet minimum requirements’ and must put in place national legislation and institutions; export, import and internal controls; and also commit to transparency and the exchange of statistical data. Participants can only legally trade with other participants who have also met the minimum requirements of the scheme, and international shipments of rough diamonds must be accompanied by a KP certificate guaranteeing that they are conflict-free.”
The Kimberley Process is headed by participating countries on a rotating basis. Countries that have chaired the KP so far include:
Member countries of the Kimberley Process meet twice a year. If you want to know more about the Kimberley Process, click here.
IGL has the means to trace the origin of your diamond and make sure that it is conflict-free. Every diamond that has been mined safely — meaning it follows a strict process to prevent damage to society and the environment — comes with a Kimberley Process certificate.
Australia’s Premier Diamond Certification