What are Conflict Free Diamonds? Conflict-free diamonds have been mined and shipped in an ethical manner. Known as recycled diamonds, these gems are environmentally friendly and socially sourced. Learn more about how diamonds are certified and sourced. We also cover the Kimberley Process. Conflict-free diamonds come from ethical mining communities. Read on to learn more about the benefits of conflict-free diamonds. We also discuss the Kimberley Process and its importance for the diamond industry.
Conflict-free diamonds are mined and shipped ethically
Conflict-free ethical diamonds are those that have been mined, graded, and shipped ethically, and can be traded among members of the Kimberley Process. This certificate ensures the diamonds are not from conflict zones and do not fund civil wars. Some consumers question whether these diamonds are truly conflict-free, and are hesitant to buy them. However, customers of Brilliant Earth have proven this tactic isn’t as reliable as it sounds. Diamonds must be transported many times to reach diamond cutting and grading facilities, and then re-shipped to retailers.
Buying conflict-free diamonds is the best way to show you care about the planet. Conflict-free diamonds are mined and shipped in conflict-free nations that have no ties to rebel groups or terrorist organizations. These diamonds are also certified ethical by independent laboratories, and dealers will tell you the country where they were mined. If you are worried about the origin of your diamond, try choosing a lab-grown diamond.
Recycled diamonds are eco-friendly and socially sourced
Recycled diamonds are an environmentally friendly and socially sourced alternative to mined ones. Because they are recycled, these diamonds have no mining impact, are cheaper than new diamonds, and have a zero resale value. Recycled diamonds come from estate sales and heirloom diamonds. Some dealers take old diamonds out of settings, clean them, and recut them for customers. They should retain their value and be cheaper than brand new diamonds.
Recycled diamonds are the most popular type of sustainable diamonds available. While they were once mined, they have undergone the polishing and cutting processes and are thus conflict free. Because they are recycled, the conflict free diamonds used in jewelry are less likely to have been obtained through unethical practices. As a result, they may even be a better choice for jewelry consumers on a tight budget.
Kimberley Process
The Kimberley Process for conflict free diamonds was launched in 2000 as a way to avoid the sale of blood diamonds in mainstream markets. It is a certification scheme that outlines rules for the production, trade, and sale of rough diamonds. As of now, it is composed of 54 countries (EU members count as a single country), which must agree to follow strict guidelines on their diamond production and trade.
The Kimberley Process has a number of benefits. It has significantly reduced the availability of conflict diamonds on the open market. In fact, the process has helped to create jobs and support governments in areas afflicted with conflict. Yet, the process isn’t without controversy. In particular, it does not cover polished diamonds, which are far more popular amongst consumers. Nevertheless, the process is a worthy cause and you should support its implementation by purchasing a diamond from a responsible jeweler.
Sources of conflict-free diamonds
Finding conflict free diamonds can be a tricky task. Fortunately, many sources now have ethical guidelines in place, and many of them are even recycled! Conflict-free diamonds are those that have been previously owned and have minimal or no environmental or social impact. You can usually find out about the country they came from by asking your diamond dealer. You can also find beautiful lab-grown gems from reputable companies.
Conclusion
In addition to the ethical labor practices, conflict-free diamonds should be sourced from places that employ adults and provide reasonable working hours. Most diamond-producing countries lack these protections, and many children and other underage workers have suffered injuries in smaller-scale mines. Other communities near diamond-rich mines have been forcibly displaced, and some civilians have been killed in wars fuelled by diamonds.
