The term conflict free has been thrown around quite a bit in relation to Diamonds, but what are conflict free Diamonds and is there anyway to tell if they truly are. Since the inception of the Kimberly Process there has been a staggering drop in conflict Diamonds.
Conflict Diamonds, also known widely as blood Diamonds are stones that are produced in areas controlled by rebel forces that are opposed to internationally recognized governments. The rebels sell these diamonds, and the money is used to purchase arms or to fund their military actions.
The Kimberly Process or KP is a trade regime established in 2003 with the goal of preventing the flow of conflict Diamonds. The core of this regime is the Kimberly Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) under which States implement safeguards on shipments of rough Diamonds and certify them as “conflict free”. The participants of this initiative have claimed to have actively prevented 99.8% of the worldwide trade.
Under the terms of the KPCS participants must:
1. Satisfy ‘minimum requirements’ and establish national legislation, institutions and import/export controls.
2. Commit to transparent practices and to the exchange of critical statistical data.
3.Trade only with fellow members who also satisfy the fundamentals of the agreement.
4. Certify shipments as conflict-free and provide the supporting certification.
So who is involved in this process? The Kimberley Process (KP) participants are states and regional economic integration organizations that are eligible to trade in rough diamonds. There are 56 participants representing 82 countries, with the European Community counting as a single participant. The participants include all major rough diamond producing, exporting and importing countries. The diamond industry, through the World Diamond Council, and civil society groups are also integral parts of the KP. These organisations have been involved since the start and continue to contribute to its effective implementation and monitoring.
This initiative is so important in helping identify exactly where Diamonds are mined and how they are mined. This has given great relief and comfort to so many buyers who are socially conscious and weary of their Diamonds origin.
There are alternatives however for those buyers who find themselves both socially and environmentally conscious. With the development of Lab Grown Diamonds the advantage of knowing where and how your Diamond is produced is simple. As these Diamonds are grown and not mined they are not only conflict free but also environmentally friendly.
Lab Diamonds have the benefit of not only being virtually the same in look and feel compared with a naturally mined Diamonds but they can also cost up to 60% less. For many young buyers the more cost effective alternative allows them to focus on the family, house and car or even spend a little more on the wedding and honeymoon.
Its no secret that Diamond alternatives and Lab Grown Diamonds in particular are on the rise, so it’s never been more important to compare and decide on not only budget but also design. Weigh up options for an online purchase or from a physical retailer. Sometimes Jewellers have both options allowing you to browse from the comfort of your own home before visiting in person.
For more information please visit: iheartdiamonds.com.au
