The diamond industry began in the 13th century, but what we know it as in modern times is mostly thanks to the two De Beers brothers when they purchased the farm, Vooruitzicht’ in 1865. They had no idea they had acquired a diamond-rich area of land. With skillful marketing and clever operations, De Beers controlled the global supply and still is the major player today in the natural diamond industry.
Diamonds have long been associated with love and commitment but in light of climate, miner rights and other issues, recent years have seen the practice of mining rough diamonds in the hot seat (along with gold mining and digging for other precious metals).
Diamonds have long been associated with love and commitment, but in light of climate, miner rights, and other issues, recent years have seen the practice of mining rough diamonds in the hot seat (along with gold mining and digging for other precious metals and gems.)
As consumers are increasingly aware of the environmental impact and ethical practices involved, they are looking for alternatives to natural gemstones. That makes ethical diamonds a viable option for buyers around the world who want to feel good about purchasing. There are plenty of questions that go along with making the choice to buy a natural diamond, including comparing and contrasting ethically sourced stones with lab-grown diamonds.
This guide highlights the biggest issues with reference to ethical sourcing and top humanitarian issues that go along with diamond mining.
What Does "Ethically Sourced" Mean?
Ethical sourcing is the practice of responsible mining practices that place an emphasis on fair labor practices, safe working conditions, economic responsibility, and attention to environmental issues caused by legacy mining processes.
These new production techniques aim to avoid so-called "blood diamonds" or "conflict" diamonds", which, at their worst, are used to fund wars and armed conflict, particularly but not restricted to, Central and Western Africa.
The result of ethical production is conflict-free diamonds that do not provide money for violence or exploitation. To be sure your diamond has been ethically sourced, ask for certification that proves equitability and sustainability from the start of the diamond supply chain all the way to its end.
The Kimberley Process
The Kimberley Process is an international agreement that works to keep conflict diamonds out of the trade process. It's one of the most well-known such agreements in the diamond industry. The Kimberley Process Certification Scheme was established in 2003.
The initiative requires diamond mining entities to prove that their stones are conflict-free diamonds before they can be sold. The Kimberley Process has been helpful in reducing the trade of unethical diamonds, but some say it's not strict enough to completely eliminate the issue. To be sure you are getting an ethical natural diamond, it's a good idea to ask for additional certifications.
Lab-Grown Diamonds
Lab-grown diamonds are not the same thing as ethically sourced diamonds. The distinction is important if you have specific criteria as you shop for a diamond. Lab diamonds have gained popularity as an alternative to mined gemstones, ensuring that you are definitely not getting a blood diamond.
Chemically and physically, lab-created diamonds are identical to natural diamonds but are created in a highly controlled setting with advanced technological equipment.
There are two methods for producing lab created dimaonds.
- High Pressure, High Temperature (HPHT)
- Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD)
both of which mimic the natural conditions under which diamonds are formed in the Earth.
Because lab diamonds eliminate the environmental concerns and human rights abuses that go with mined diamonds, they are seen as the ethical choice.
Another benefit of choosing lab-grown diamonds is that they are less expensive than mined stones - by 30 - 50% in the current diamond marketplace, making them a perfect choice for affordable pieces that are still beautiful and meaningful.
Sustainability and Environmental Impact
While many buyers want to be sure their diamond was not procured with the worry about human rights violations in dangerous working conditions, others are committed to choosing a stone that doesn't damage the environment, and that leaves behind a much smaller carbon footprint.
This is a legitimate concern since the diamond trade has a long history of using toxic chemicals and other unethical practices. Some specific issues long associated with diamond sourcing include water pollution, high emissions, and habitat destruction. Each of these has a negative impact on the area, including the humans, plants, and animals that live in the area.
The modern mining process has evolved, and many mining communities are avoiding the trade of conflict diamonds by prioritizing advanced technologies that meet more stringent environmental standards and safe conditions. That includes waste management efforts, reforestation practices, and water conservation programs. Some ethical diamond sourcing companies also support land reclamation and are committed to sustainable practices that are beneficial to the entire area.
Certifications to Look For
Whether you're choosing a diamond for an ethical engagement ring or for any other piece of jewelry, certifications are vital. They give you insight into the diamond sources, which enables you to get a picture of environmental practices and ethical standards used tin producing the stone. Reputable sources are of the utmost importance. They include the following:
- Kimberley Process: this certification ensures that you're getting ethically sourced diamond pieces from traceable supply chains with reputable diamond retailers
- Fairmined: this certification process ensures responsible practices, fair working conditions, fair wages, environmental protections, and human rights for miners.
- Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC): this entity certifies the specific companies along the entire supply chain so that you can find high-quality diamonds from those who adhere to responsible sourcing, which includes environmental, social and ethical standards.
- The Diamond Development Initiative (DDI): works to ensure that artisanal miners in African countries, the Ivory Coast included, have a better quality of life by eliminating poor working conditions, dirty water and child labor. All of this while also supporting responsible mining by steering the flow of conflict diamonds.
Conclusion
From the Kimberley Process to an ethical sourcing policy and an ethical supply chain, there's a lot to consider when buying a diamond. Proper education in mining communities is one of the biggest issues in the international diamond trade. Obstacles are decreasing, and new ways to prevent them occur, so the demand for diamonds with ethical origins is on the rise.
It is equally true for the lab-grown diamond trade. Either way, you get a conflict-free and ethical diamond that you'll feel good about wearing, whether it's an engagement ring, a tennis bracelet or a fabulous pair of diamond earrings. Understanding the process and asking for the right certifications is the best way to ensure that you make an informed choice that aligns with your personal values, while also celebrating your love.
At 1800 Loose Diamonds, we have a fabulous array of single stones and high quality diamond jewelry covered by our conflict-free pledge. We are particularly proud of our collection of diamond engagement rings., both our ready-to-buy range and custom design service.