Blood Diamond Meaning
Blood diamonds, also known as conflict diamonds, are extracted in war-torn regions controlled by forces often opposed to governmental authorities. Miners, including men, women, and children, are coerced into working under deplorable conditions.
These diamonds primarily originate from countries on the West Coast of Africa and Southern Africa. During the civil wars of the 20th and 21st centuries, blood diamonds were mined in nations such as the Ivory Coast, Liberia, the Republic of Congo, Zimbabwe, Angola, Guinea, Guinea Bissau, and Sierra Leone. Rebel groups sell these diamonds to fund illegal military activities, terrorism, and warfare. Establishing mines is costly; even big firms like DeBeers can invest over a billion dollars to set up operations. As surface-level diamond supplies dwindle, intensive deeper mining becomes necessary, reducing the likelihood of diamonds being linked to conflict due to the prohibitive costs involved. Hence, warmongers find it increasingly difficult to rely on diamond trading and mining to finance their violence.
With the supply of diamonds now more diversified across various regions, the prevalence of blood diamonds in today’s market is exceedingly rare.
In 2017, Russia, Canada, and Australia ranked among the top four countries worldwide for diamond extraction by carat weight.
As the availability of African diamonds diminishes, Arctic regions are set to become leading sources of supply.
What is The Kimberly Process?
While a glamorous gold diamond ring, a pretty diamond necklace, and sparkling diamond earrings are highly desired, it’s essential that they don’t contain blood diamonds. To address this, the Kimberly Process (KP) was implemented in 2003 to curb the flow of conflict diamonds. Comprised of industry stakeholders, civil societies, and governments, the KP aims to prevent conflict diamonds from entering the rough diamond market.
The Kimberly Process established an international certification scheme to curtail the rough diamond trade and support legitimate mining and trade. Buyers can confidently purchase certified conflict-free diamonds, knowing their money won’t fund hostility and bloodshed. Over the past decade, even greater strides have been made by miners and cutters to ensure their diamonds are thoroughly vetted.
Reputable Brands Embrace Conflict-Free Diamonds
Any reputable jewelry brand would steer clear of using blood diamonds, not only due to the unethical nature but also because it is illegal. Thankfully, local governments have enacted laws that have drastically reduced the availability of conflict diamonds. Authorities closely monitor diamond mining operations, ensuring proper labor conditions and ethical trade practices are upheld.
Ethical and Affordable Lab-Grown Diamonds
If you’re interested in conflict-free diamond rings, consider lab-grown diamonds. These diamonds require no mining, ensuring they are conflict-free by default. Lab-grown diamonds make a great alternative, offering jewelry that is just as striking as earth-mined diamonds. They share the same physical and chemical properties, and only experts can distinguish between the two!
Though visually similar, lab-grown diamonds are more affordable than their earth-mined counterparts. Lab-grown diamonds are also eco-friendly and accessible.
Explore online stores like Artful Bracelets to find a stunning range of items. Whether you’re searching for a dazzling diamond engagement ring, a stunning wedding band, diamond earrings, or other beautiful pieces, you won’t be disappointed.
What to Ask Your Jeweler
Reputable jewelers are always happy to address any questions you might have. Consider these points before making a purchase:
Are the gems certified conflict-free diamonds?
Seek out jewelers with a policy of selling only conflict-free diamonds, ideally with written warranties from suppliers confirming legal purchases.
Who certifies the diamonds?
Opt for conflict-free diamonds certified by the Kimberly Process to ensure there is no connection between rebel groups and your jewelry.
Is IGI/GIA certification a must?
The Gemological Institute of America (GIA), an independent non-profit organization, offers reputable diamond grading services. The International Gemological Institute provides similar services in Asia and Europe.
Does The Jeweler Offer Free Returns/Exchange?
Purchase from brands that offer free returns/exchanges for additional peace of mind.
FAQs
Is a Blood Diamond a Real Diamond?
Yes, blood diamonds are real diamonds formed from crystallized carbon under immense pressure. Lab-grown diamonds are created similarly but in man-made conditions. However, blood diamonds are mined under horrific conditions for unscrupulous gains.
Are Blood Diamonds Illegal?
Trading blood diamonds is illegal in the USA. However, some unscrupulous jewelers may still engage in this practice. Always buy from reputable stores and consider lab-grown diamonds for added peace of mind.
Do Blood Diamonds Still Exist?
Blood diamonds are now rare, and rebel groups face significant challenges in mining these precious stones. Even large, legal companies find it arduous to mine earth diamonds, which explains their high costs. These difficulties have dissuaded warmongers from using diamonds to fund violence, hopefully making blood diamonds a thing of the past.
