Conflict diamonds have come to be known as blood diamonds since the 2006 release of Blood Diamond. This film depicted how such gems had been used as funding sources during civil wars or periods of political unrest.
Let’s understand Conflict Free Diamonds and other factors around it.
Conflict Free Diamonds or Blood Free diamonds are diamonds that have been ethically sourced. They do not contribute to any armed conflicts, human rights abuses, or environmental harm. Conflict Free Diamonds are mined, processed, and traded in a way that adheres to strict social and environmental standards.
Conflict-free diamonds are typically certified and can be traced back to their origin to ensure they have been obtained from. Their production prioritizes ethical mining practices.
The Kimberley Process
The Kimberley Process is an international certification scheme established in 2003 to prevent the trade of conflict diamonds.. It was implemented after the Sierra Leone War and continued conflict in Africa.
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Kimberley’s process regulations ensure diamond mines and shipments are handled humanely and do not involve criminal activity.
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Participating countries are required to implement regulations and procedures to ensure that diamonds are mined and traded in a conflict-free manner.
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It includes requirements for the certification and tracking of diamonds from their point of origin to the final buyer, aiming to ensure that diamonds are conflict-free.
Canada Mark Diamonds
Canada Mark Diamonds is a certification program that guarantees the origin and quality of diamonds mined in Canada. It was established by Dominion Diamond Mines in 2002 to ensure transparency and ethical sourcing of diamonds from Canadian mines.
Canadian diamonds have a positive reputation for diamond mining operations.
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The certification focuses on Canadian diamonds’ ethical and responsible mining practices.
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The program verifies that the diamonds are natural, untreated, and have been responsibly mined and produced.
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These mines are known for their adherence to strict environmental regulations, fair labor practices, and support for local communities.
How and Where to Buy Conflict-Free Diamonds?
It may be hard to identify one jeweler as many retailers have committed to using only Kimberly Process certified diamonds. However, we can guide you on how to and what to look for if you want to buy only Conflict Free Diamonds.
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Research Reputable Jewellers or Retailers: Look for jewelers who prioritize ethical sourcing and offer conflict-free diamonds.
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Look for certification: Look for diamonds that come with certification from the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) or the Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC), or Canadian Diamonds.
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Ask for diamond origin: Find out about the diamond’s origin from the jeweler. Conflict free diamonds are typically sourced from countries with responsible mining practices, such as Canada, Australia, and Botswana.
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Verify Jeweller policies: Many jewelers state their policy regarding Conflict Free Diamonds. They should be able to provide information about their supply chain and assurance that they do not deal with diamonds involved in conflicts or human rights abuses.
How do I know if a diamond is a conflict-free diamond?
Like mentioned above, diamonds that come with certification from the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) or with Canada Mark Diamonds are Conflict Free Diamond.
If the diamonds don’t come with Kimberley Process, their origin is unclear. In such a scenario you may want to check its source by asking your specific questions to your jeweller.
Are Conflict Free Diamonds more expensive than Non-Conflict Free?
Conflict-free diamonds do not necessarily have a higher price than non-conflict-free diamonds. The cost of a diamond is primarily determined by factors such as carat weight, cut, color, and clarity rather than its ethical status.
Canada Mark Diamonds have long been recognized for their ethical certification. They may command a premium due to their branding spend and assurances for Canadian origin and responsible sourcing.
However, this premium may not be driven by conflict-free status but also by factors like brand recognition and market demand.
Is Conflict Free and Ethical Diamond the same thing?
Diamonds termed as Conflict Free Diamonds have not contributed to the funding of civil wars. On the other hand, Ethical Diamonds guarantee fair wages, safe working conditions, environmentally responsible practices, and human rights compliance.
Several retailers and jewelers are known to only sell Conflict Free Diamonds. Look for those when you make a purchase.
If you are a climate warrior, you could also explore Lab Grown Diamonds; they are growing popular, especially among the millennials, because they are found to be more environmentally friendly.