Introduction

The diamond industry has long been plagued by the issue of conflict diamonds, also known as 'blood' diamonds. These are rough diamonds that are used by rebel movements to finance armed conflicts and undermine legitimate governments. In response to this crisis, a coalition of governments, non-governmental organizations, and the diamond industry established the Kimberley Process in 2002. The aim of this international certification scheme is to control the export and import of rough diamonds, ensuring that they are conflict-free. In this article, we will explore how the Kimberley Process works and its impact on the diamond industry.

How the Kimberley Process Works

At the core of the Kimberley Process is the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS). Participating countries implement safeguards on shipments of rough diamonds and certify them as "conflict-free". Through this scheme, the flow of conflict diamonds is prevented, while legitimate trade in rough diamonds is protected.

Stronger Together: Open Arms

One of the key principles of the Kimberley Process is its open arms policy. The process welcomes all countries that are willing and able to implement its minimal requirements. By inclusively engaging countries, the process aims to create a united front against the trade in conflict diamonds.

Active Involvement: Working Towards a Solution

The Kimberley Process operates through regular meetings and teleconferences where participating members, civil society observers, and the wider industry come together to discuss and address challenges. These gatherings facilitate the exchange of information, data, and analysis to monitor the adherence and implementation of the process.

United for Change: Making a Difference

To ensure the effectiveness of the Kimberley Process, adherence and implementation are closely monitored. Review visits, regular data exchange, statistical analysis, and annual reports contribute to the assessment of participants' compliance with the process. By staying vigilant, the process strives to continuously improve and make a tangible impact in eliminating conflict diamonds from the marketplace.

The Participants: A Global Effort

The Kimberley Process participants include states, regional economic integration organizations, the diamond industry represented by the World Diamond Council, and civil society groups. Together, they form a global effort to combat the trade in conflict diamonds. Currently, there are 59 participants representing 85 countries, with the European Community counting as a single participant. Among the participants are major rough diamond producing, exporting, and importing countries.

Gallery Gems: Championing Ethical Trade

Gallery Gems, a leading figure in the diamond industry, is dedicated to promoting ethical and conflict-free trade. With an unwavering commitment to sourcing and selling only 100% conflict-free and ethically sourced diamonds and gemstones, they are driving the change for a better world of diamond and gemstone buying.

Own Ethically Sourced Gemstones

By choosing Gallery Gems, consumers have the rare opportunity to own gemstones that are ethically sourced by a GIA Graduate Gemologist. With the assurance of expert knowledge and a commitment to ethical practices, Gallery Gems is leading the way in providing consumers with a guilt-free option for purchasing precious stones.

Conclusion

The Kimberley Process has been instrumental in addressing the issue of conflict diamonds and promoting ethical trade in the diamond industry. Through its certification scheme and the collective efforts of participating countries, the trade in conflict diamonds has significantly reduced, with 99% of diamonds in the marketplace now being conflict-free. However, it is important for consumers to continue supporting ethical brands like Gallery Gems to ensure a sustainable and responsible diamond industry. Together, we can make a difference and create a better world of diamond and gemstone buying