Conflict-Free and Ethical Diamonds The 2006 film "Blood Diamond" shed light on the unethical practices surrounding conflict diamonds and the funding of wars through diamonds. Since then, many consumers have become more conscious of the origin and ethics of the diamonds they buy, especially when purchasing engagement rings.
Conflict-free diamonds are those that haven't funded civil wars, while ethical diamonds go a step further and guarantee fair pay, safe working conditions, environmental responsibility, and respect for human rights.
The Kimberley Process In 2003, the Kimberley Process was established by member countries to prevent conflict diamonds from entering the global diamond trade by tracking diamonds from mine to market. However, the process lacks proper oversight and it's challenging to determine the mine of origin.
Diamonds often change hands multiple times, from the mine to wholesalers, diamond cutters, and finally to retail. During each stage, the trader must certify compliance with the Kimberley Process.
