What Are Conflict-Free Diamonds?

[3BL Media]

Conflict diamonds, also known as 'blood' diamonds, are rough diamonds traded by rebel movements or their allies for the financing of armed conflicts historically aimed at undermining legitimate
governments. Currently, there are 48 participants in the voluntary Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS),
which was established to regulate the trade of conflict diamonds and
prevent conflict diamonds from entering the legal diamond market.
Companies wanting to export rough diamonds from a country participating
in the Process must provide a KPCS certificate to customs.

Unfortunately, the Kimberley Process does not ensure the source of rough diamonds or take into consideration the labor conditions under which the diamond has been mined, cut or polished. Moreover, KPCS is
only applicable to diamonds, and does not consider the environmental
impact of diamond mining. Therefore, conflict-free is a small step the
industry has made toward greater responsibility and, given the narrow
definition and the challenge of regulating the KP certification,
consumers seeking sustainable jewelry will want to consider a myriad of
other factors.

Learn more about ethically sourced diamonds at www.Sulusso.com or by calling 888.777.7976.

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[Rita Luppino]

This is a very interesting post. I feel that consumers don't think about where their diamonds come from and the mining/sourcing of the jewels are kept hush-hush. I'm glad to hear about the KPCS- at least it is a step in the right direction. It will be interesting to see what details precious jewelery companies put forth in their CSR reports in regards to ethical production. We live in a transparent world and a company's CSR strategy must be aligned with the truth. Otherwise, the information will be put out and tarnish their reputation. I just wish more consumers knew the realities of jewelery mining!