Origin Does Matter
At Roberts Jewelry we proudly have a zero-tolerance policy toward conflict diamonds. For years, we have demanded both personal and written warranties from all of our diamond suppliers that the diamonds delivered to us are ethically sourced and “conflict free.” A written warranty is required for each diamond shipment. Additionally, we rely on the Kimberley Process to ensure we continue to provide our customers only ethically-sourced diamond and gemstones.
What is the Jewelry Industry Doing?
Over 75 countries have adopted a system to ensure that “conflict diamonds” are not entering their countries. The system controls the export and import of rough diamonds mined from January 2003 onward. Spearheaded by Jewelers of America, International Diamond Manufacturers Association and the Wolrd Federation of Diamond Bourses, this agreement is known as “The Kimberley Process.”
How does The Kimberley Process Work?
The Kimberley Process tracks diamonds from mine to market and in partnership with companies such as ours and others in the diamond industry, the United Nations, governments, and non-governmental organizations, it polices diamond exports to prevent the trade of illegal diamonds.
The Process managed to drastically decrease the trade in these diamonds and now continues to monitor the global trade of diamonds. Each shipment of rough diamonds is required to be in a tamper-resistant container and accompanied by a government-validated certificate. Any country declining to participate is effectively barred from the international diamond trade.
Why Not Reject All Diamonds from Africa?
Considerably less than one percent of diamonds which come from Africa are used to fund conflicts, according to The Kimberley Process. However, the industry has a zero tolerance policy and will continue to work toward eliminating conflict diamonds entirely. Additionally, the revenues generated from diamond exporting plays significant role in helping to provide infrastructure, education, healthcare and employment to the people of Africa. Diamonds are a natural resource that overwhelmingly helps Africa’s many struggling nations.
