What Can You Do To Make A Conscientous Diamond Purchase?
The Kimberley Process is the system of guaranties set up to discourage the trade of conflict or "blood" diamonds. View the successes of this system, as well as its areas for improvement. Find out what steps you can take to make a conscientious diamond purchase and help Africa's economy. Also, see what top US jewelry retailers are doing to uphold the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme.
A Brief History of The Situation in Sierra Leone and The Kimberley Process
View a quick overview of what is being done to stop conflict diamonds
The Kimberley Process Certification Scheme was enacted in January, 2003, in response to conflict diamond problems in Sierra Leone, Botswana, the Democratic Repulic of the Congo and elsewhere. See an overview of what conflict did to the citizens of these countries and the beginning of the Kimberley Process. It's not perfect, but its a start at ending these problems.
Blood diamonds: the international response
The West African state of Sierra Leone and earned as much as US$ 400 million in a decade of illegal smuggling. 'Conflict' or 'blood diamonds' were traded for arms and funded a brutal rebel campaign. The civil war in Sierra Leone and similar conflicts in other African countries such as Angola and DR Congo left thousands dead and hundreds of thousands refugees. Today some believe that diamonds fund the terrorist activities of al-Queda. Following UN sanctions imposed on diamond producing countries, the international community reacted further by establishing the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme. The EU played a significant role in negotiating the scheme - driving this multilateral process. Since January 2003, unpolished diamonds can only be bought or sold between the 43 participating countries. A Kimberley Process certificate that acts as an assurance the diamonds are 'conflict free', must accompany all diamonds. This VNR revisits Sierra Leone a country and a people visibly struggling to recover from a war fuelled by 'blood diamonds'. The VNR features alluvial mining in the Kono mining region of the country. Here, we meet with Sahfrea Mohammed Konoboy and his family, a miner who recounts his familys experience when they had to flee the rebel conflict. He speaks of his attempt to rebuild his life and his home. In the report, we meet with officials in the capital Freetown who administer the Kimberley Process Certification scheme and we follow the diamonds to Antwerp, Belgium, where authorities carry out thorough checks on the gems. We also take a closer look at the Kimberley Process mechanism. 2004 http://ec.europa.eu/external_relations/kimb/intro/index.htm
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What are conflict or "blood" diamonds?
Conflict diamonds are used by rebel forces to purchase arms and fund brutal civil wars.
The Kimberley Process
A Certification System of Guarantees
Read the wikipedia article about the creation of the Kimberley Process, its member nations and how the scheme is supposed to work. It may not be perfect. But its a start.
The Kimberley Process Certification Scheme, popularly known as KPCS, is a process introduced by United Nations resolution 55/56 that is designed to certify the origin of rough diamonds from sources which are free of conflict fueled by diamond production.The Kimberley Process World Diamond Council Website - Diamondfacts.org, accessed November 6, 2006 The process was established in 2003 to prevent rebel groups being financed by diamond sales. The certification scheme aims at preventing these "blood diamonds" from entering the mainstream rough diamond market. It was set up to assure consumers that by purchasing diamonds they were not financing war and human rights abuses.
The Certification Process Starts with Rough Diamonds
Diamonds are difficult to trace once they've been brought to the market, and impossible to identify once polished
The Reality of The Kimberley Process
Is this certification scheme being manipulated?
It certainly is not perfect. See where the system can be manipulated. View the possible loopholes for conflict diamonds to enter the legal system. See the realities of the Kimberley Process Certification System and African diamond exporting in practice. Some of the videos feature diamond miners speaking in their native tongues (French, Portuguese, etc..). Be sure to watch these videos in full as they are the most informative, even without translations.
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The Negative
Diamonds can enable brutal civil wars in Africa.
Blood On The Stone
Sorius Somura's excellent series, "Blood On The Stone", takes you on a first-hand tour through the Kimberley Process offices, African diamond dealers, corrupt certification processes, bloodthirsty (yet regretful) diamond-mine guards and the miners, on a smugglers route to Guinea and finally to complete an illicit diamond sale. All of this is done with ease and the "only papers exchanged are American dollars".
The final scene is the most shocking - it shows just how incredibly easy it is to sell diamonds that have circumvented the Kimberley Process in Africa on the streets of New York City.
The final scene is the most shocking - it shows just how incredibly easy it is to sell diamonds that have circumvented the Kimberley Process in Africa on the streets of New York City.
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Nations Not Supporting The Kimberley Process
Do Not Buy Diamonds or Diamond Jewelry originating from these countries.
Check out news clips showing nations not cooperating with the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme.
Diamond Industry News June 25, 2008
Do not trade diamonds from Venezuela, that is the message today from Avi Paz - president of the WFDB; wholesalers and retailers from India report strong sales growth and profits, but a number of issues hit the trade in the United States this week as Whitehall Jewelers filed for Chapter 11, House of Taylor surrendered to its lender, and plaintiffs seek $100 million from management of M. Fabrikant & Sons. Anchored by Zach Helke of Rapaport News.
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Info I've bookmarked lately on Conflict (or conflict-free!) diamonds
Keeping this page up to date
Check out here the most recent bookmarks I've added regarding The Kimberley Process and conflict (or conflict-free) diamonds.
Sorry, we couldn't connect to Del.icio.us. Please try again later.Tweets about the Kimberley Process
What's being said about this system of guaranties?
The Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) is certainly augmented by other industry organizations and independant efforts by retailers to avoid the purchase of conflict diamonds. What is being said about this pillar of the solution to conflict diamond purchases.
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- CAdiamonds
- Israel Takes Over Kimberley Process Chairmanship for 2010 http://ow.ly/SDpk
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- caclubindia
- Application of Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) http://url4.eu/135DX
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- BrilliantEarth
- In Wake of Kimberley Process Decision, Zimbabwe Military Leaders Poised to Reap Millions. http://bit.ly/55V35r
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- diamondprices
- RT @wwwdiamondnews: Kimberley Process May Receive a Huge Donation from Israel…: Diamond News - Kimberley Process: According to a repo... ...
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- AC_Lifestyle
- AC Beauty: Consider More Than Kimberley Process when Buying a Conflict-Free Diamond http://bit.ly/7VhVJq #AC #Beauty
automatically generated by Twitter
Recommended Steps To Avoid Purchasing Conflict Diamonds
A few tricks to ensure you're making a good choice
Check out these links for useful and practical information on steps you can take to ensure you're buying a conflict-free diamond.
- Amnesty USA's Diamond Buying Guide
- A 2-page PDF document giving a brief overview of conflict diamonds, the Kimberley Process, and what jewelers have agreed to do based upon the Kimberley Process.
Amnesty USA suggests you ask to see a copy of the company's policy on conflict diamonds, a written guarantee on your purchase and also that you ask what countries the company buys its diamonds from, as well as how you can be sure you're not purchasing a conflict diamond.
The Positive
Legitimate diamonds contribute to prosperity and development for African countries.
Don't Stop Buying African Diamonds
View the positive light of your African diamond purchase
Diamonds represent one of the largest exports for the African continent. When properly mined and processed, they can provide a much needed stream of income for African nations. Check out these YouTube videos of how conflict-free diamonds are helping the economies (and the people) of Africa.
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Nations Participating In The Kimberley Process Certification Scheme
Don't buy diamonds from countries not in this listing.
As of May, 2009 (and according to diamondfacts.org) here is an up-to-date listing of countries participating in The Kimberley Process Certification Scheme:
- Angola
- Armenia
- Australia
- Austria
- Bangladesh
- Belarus
- Belgium
- Botswana
- Brazil* (recommenced importing / exporting rough diamonds as of September 2006 after a brief self-suspension)
- Bulgaria
- Canada
- Central African Republic
- China, People's Republic Of
- Congo, Democratic Republic Of
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Ghana
- Greece
- Guinea
- Guyana
- Hungary
- India
- Indonesia
- Ireland
- Italy
- Israel
- Ivory Coast (May 2009 - subject to a UNSC resolution banning the import/export of rough diamonds)
- Japan
- Korea, Republic of
- Lao, Democratic Republic of
- Latvia
- Lebanon
- Lesotho
- Liberia
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malaysia
- Malta
- Mauritius
- Namibia
- Netherlands
- New Zealand
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Republic of Congo
- Romania
- Russian Federation
- Sierra Leone
- Singapore
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- South Africa
- Spain
- Sri Lanka
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Tanzania
- Thailand
- Togo
- Turkey
- Ukraine
- United Arab Emirates
- United States of America
Be Sure Your Diamond Is Not A Conflict Diamond
4 Recommended Questions To Ask
Amnesty USA recommends that we ask four questions when preparing to purchase diamonds or diamond jewelry. Here they are:
- How can I be sure that none of your jewelry contains conflict diamonds?
- Do you know where the diamonds you sell come from?
- Can I see a copy of your company's policy on conflict diamonds?
- Can you show me a written guaranty from your diamond suppliers stating that your diamonds are conflict free?
Can You Be Sure Your Zales Diamond is conflict free?
Questions and Answers
How can I be sure that none of your jewelry contains conflict diamonds?
- In addition to the Kimberley Process Scheme, Zales voluntarily participates in a program of self-regulation (in cooperation with leading organizations in the jewelry industry such as the World Diamond Council and Jewelers of America). They have revised their Vendor Code of Contact to include the Kimberely Process' Chain of Warranties. This revised code specifically states that all vendors must guarantee that all diamonds and diamond jewelry received from them is conflict-free. Further, Zales' diamond suppliers must also be prepared to provide a warranty from their diamond suppliers that all diamonds are conflict-free. Zales and other industry members formed the not-for-profit Council for Responsible Jewellery Practices (CRJP) to encourage responsible business practices in a "transparent and accountable manner" from the mining stages through to the retail of the products, including adherence to the Kimberley Process Warranty System. The CRJP is regularly monitored for compliance in the KPCS by an independent third party. Zales' diamond suppliers are required to annually recertify their compliance with the KPCS system of warranties. Warranties of both diamonds and diamond jewelry are retained by Zales for at least 5 years. Zales' sales associates are trained about this program to ensure Zales' diamonds are conflict-free diamonds. Executive management is also involved in monitoring compliance with the KPCS system of warranties.
Do you know where the diamonds you sell come from?
- This is the only Amnesty USA recommended question that was not answered on Zales prominent online page detailing its commitment to selling conflict free diamonds. I emailed their customer support with this question on Thursday, June 4, 2009 and will publish their answer as soon as a I receive it.
Can I see a copy of your company's policy on conflict diamonds?
- This is available online at this link. (http://www.zales.com/jewelry101/index.jsp?page=diamonds_conflictdiamonds)
Can you show me a written guaranty from your diamond suppliers stating that your diamonds are conflict free?
- As recommended by industry leaders, Zales retains the warranties accompany all rough diamond and jewelry purchases for at least 5 years. This warranty states, "The diamonds herein invoiced have been purchased from legitimate sources not involved in funding conflict and in compliance with the United Nations Resolutions. The seller hereby guarantees that these diamonds are conflict free, based on personal knowledge and/or written guarantees provided by the supplier of these diamonds."
- In addition to the Kimberley Process Scheme, Zales voluntarily participates in a program of self-regulation (in cooperation with leading organizations in the jewelry industry such as the World Diamond Council and Jewelers of America). They have revised their Vendor Code of Contact to include the Kimberely Process' Chain of Warranties. This revised code specifically states that all vendors must guarantee that all diamonds and diamond jewelry received from them is conflict-free. Further, Zales' diamond suppliers must also be prepared to provide a warranty from their diamond suppliers that all diamonds are conflict-free. Zales and other industry members formed the not-for-profit Council for Responsible Jewellery Practices (CRJP) to encourage responsible business practices in a "transparent and accountable manner" from the mining stages through to the retail of the products, including adherence to the Kimberley Process Warranty System. The CRJP is regularly monitored for compliance in the KPCS by an independent third party. Zales' diamond suppliers are required to annually recertify their compliance with the KPCS system of warranties. Warranties of both diamonds and diamond jewelry are retained by Zales for at least 5 years. Zales' sales associates are trained about this program to ensure Zales' diamonds are conflict-free diamonds. Executive management is also involved in monitoring compliance with the KPCS system of warranties.
Do you know where the diamonds you sell come from?
- This is the only Amnesty USA recommended question that was not answered on Zales prominent online page detailing its commitment to selling conflict free diamonds. I emailed their customer support with this question on Thursday, June 4, 2009 and will publish their answer as soon as a I receive it.
Can I see a copy of your company's policy on conflict diamonds?
- This is available online at this link. (http://www.zales.com/jewelry101/index.jsp?page=diamonds_conflictdiamonds)
Can you show me a written guaranty from your diamond suppliers stating that your diamonds are conflict free?
- As recommended by industry leaders, Zales retains the warranties accompany all rough diamond and jewelry purchases for at least 5 years. This warranty states, "The diamonds herein invoiced have been purchased from legitimate sources not involved in funding conflict and in compliance with the United Nations Resolutions. The seller hereby guarantees that these diamonds are conflict free, based on personal knowledge and/or written guarantees provided by the supplier of these diamonds."
Zales Jewelers And Conflict Free Diamonds
What are they doing?
Zales Jewelers cooperates with leading organizations in the jewelry industry, including the World Diamond Council and Jewelers of America, in a voluntary and complementary process to 2003's Kimberley Process of ensuring diamonds are conflict-free. Zales is North America's largest specialty jeweler.
Zales adopted KPCS (Kimberley Process Certification Scheme) in January 2003 and rewrote its Vendor Compliance Code of Conduct to include the Kimberley Process' Chain of Warranties.
Finally, in May, 2005, Zales formed the not-for-profit organization The Council for Responsible Jewellery Practices (CJRP) to ensure accountability and sound business practices in both the gold and diamond industries.
Zales adopted KPCS (Kimberley Process Certification Scheme) in January 2003 and rewrote its Vendor Compliance Code of Conduct to include the Kimberley Process' Chain of Warranties.
Finally, in May, 2005, Zales formed the not-for-profit organization The Council for Responsible Jewellery Practices (CJRP) to ensure accountability and sound business practices in both the gold and diamond industries.
Zales' Kimberley Process Warranty
"The diamonds herein invoiced have been purchased from legitimate sources not involved in funding conflict and in compliance with United Nations Resolutions. The undersigned hereby guarantees that these diamonds are conflict free, based on personal knowledge and/or written guarantees provided by the supplier of these diamonds."
The Email Being Sent To Ask My KPCS Questions
Can you be sure your Walmart diamond is conflict free?
Questions and Answers
How can I be sure that none of your jewelry contains conflict diamonds?
- I emailed this question to Wal-Mart's Customer Support link on Thursday, June 4, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Do you know where the diamonds you sell come from?
- I emailed this question to Wal-Mart's Customer Support link on Thursday, June 4, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can I see a copy of your company's policy on conflict diamonds?
- I emailed this question to Wal-Mart's Customer Support link on Thursday, June 4, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can you show me a written guaranty from your diamond suppliers stating that your diamonds are conflict free?
- I emailed this question to Wal-Mart's Customer Support link on Thursday, June 4, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
- I emailed this question to Wal-Mart's Customer Support link on Thursday, June 4, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Do you know where the diamonds you sell come from?
- I emailed this question to Wal-Mart's Customer Support link on Thursday, June 4, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can I see a copy of your company's policy on conflict diamonds?
- I emailed this question to Wal-Mart's Customer Support link on Thursday, June 4, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can you show me a written guaranty from your diamond suppliers stating that your diamonds are conflict free?
- I emailed this question to Wal-Mart's Customer Support link on Thursday, June 4, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can you be sure your Target diamonds are conflict free?
Questions and Answers
How can I be sure that none of your jewelry contains conflict diamonds?
- I emailed this question to Target's Customer Support link on Thursday, June 4, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Do you know where the diamonds you sell come from?
- I emailed this question to Target's Customer Support link on Thursday, June 4, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can I see a copy of your company's policy on conflict diamonds?
- I emailed this question to Target's Customer Support link on Thursday, June 4, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can you show me a written guaranty from your diamond suppliers stating that your diamonds are conflict free?
- I emailed this question to Target's Customer Support link on Thursday, June 4, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
- I emailed this question to Target's Customer Support link on Thursday, June 4, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Do you know where the diamonds you sell come from?
- I emailed this question to Target's Customer Support link on Thursday, June 4, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can I see a copy of your company's policy on conflict diamonds?
- I emailed this question to Target's Customer Support link on Thursday, June 4, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can you show me a written guaranty from your diamond suppliers stating that your diamonds are conflict free?
- I emailed this question to Target's Customer Support link on Thursday, June 4, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
The Target response to my questions
I received a reply within 24 hours.
Target responded to my email on Friday, June 6. This was within 24 hours. Although they didn't answer my questions, they showed that they had read the email and were looking to forward it to the person best able to answer these questions. Jill from Target Guest Relations wrote to me as follows:
"Thanks for taking the time to ask us about the diamonds sold at Target.
To better know who can best attempt to help with your question, please advise: Who are you writing the article for and where will it be published? Also, are you a free lance writer or member of the media?
We look forward to showing you what's new at Target."
I responded to Jill on Saturday, June 6, with information on the different articles I write online, my main website (Centsible.net) and other reasons people may visit my African-themed pages, such as a pen pal program I coordinate between US and Ugandan children.
"Thanks for taking the time to ask us about the diamonds sold at Target.
To better know who can best attempt to help with your question, please advise: Who are you writing the article for and where will it be published? Also, are you a free lance writer or member of the media?
We look forward to showing you what's new at Target."
I responded to Jill on Saturday, June 6, with information on the different articles I write online, my main website (Centsible.net) and other reasons people may visit my African-themed pages, such as a pen pal program I coordinate between US and Ugandan children.
Can you be sure your Sears diamond is conflict free?
Questions and Answers
How can I be sure that none of your jewelry contains conflict diamonds?
- I emailed this question to Sears' Customer Support link on Friday, June 5, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Do you know where the diamonds you sell come from?
- I emailed this question to Sears' Customer Support link on Friday, June 5, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can I see a copy of your company's policy on conflict diamonds?
- I emailed this question to Sears' Customer Support link on Friday, June 5, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can you show me a written guarantee from your diamond suppliers stating that your diamonds are conflict free?
- I emailed this question to Sears' Customer Support link on Friday, June 5, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
- I emailed this question to Sears' Customer Support link on Friday, June 5, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Do you know where the diamonds you sell come from?
- I emailed this question to Sears' Customer Support link on Friday, June 5, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can I see a copy of your company's policy on conflict diamonds?
- I emailed this question to Sears' Customer Support link on Friday, June 5, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can you show me a written guarantee from your diamond suppliers stating that your diamonds are conflict free?
- I emailed this question to Sears' Customer Support link on Friday, June 5, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
The Sears Response To My Questions
I received a reply in less than 24 hours
Sears responded to my email questions very quickly, within 24 hours. However, their response was not an answer. They referred me to their main office. I must admit, this is a smart move and I imagine I will either need to speak to their jewelry department or their marketing department.
Visiting the Sears Holding Corporations's website, I found a page detailing Sears' contribution to environmental sustainability. I emailed my questions to the address provided on that page for inquiries about sustainability issues. Although I don't think the person at this email address can answer my questions on conflict diamonds, they'll probably know who can answer these questions for Sears Holding.
I emailed my 4 questions to sustainability@searshc.com on Friday, June 5, 2009. As K-Mart is also now owned by Sears Holding Corporation, I tried to kill two birds with one stone and asked if they could answer these questions for K-Mart jewelry as well!
"Thank you for your recent correspondence regarding our jewelry. We are
always interested in hearing from our customers.
You may forward your inquiry to:
Sears Holdings Corporation
3333 Beverly Road
Hoffman Estates, IL 60179
Once again, thank you for contacting us. We appreciate your business
and value you as a Sears Holdings customer. We certainly hope you will
continue to make Sears Holdings your choice for quality and value."
Visiting the Sears Holding Corporations's website, I found a page detailing Sears' contribution to environmental sustainability. I emailed my questions to the address provided on that page for inquiries about sustainability issues. Although I don't think the person at this email address can answer my questions on conflict diamonds, they'll probably know who can answer these questions for Sears Holding.
I emailed my 4 questions to sustainability@searshc.com on Friday, June 5, 2009. As K-Mart is also now owned by Sears Holding Corporation, I tried to kill two birds with one stone and asked if they could answer these questions for K-Mart jewelry as well!
Can you be sure your Ross Simons diamond is conflict free?
Questions and Answers
How can I be sure that none of your jewelry contains conflict diamonds?
- I emailed this question to Ross Simons' Customer Support link on Friday, June 5, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Do you know where the diamonds you sell come from?
- I emailed this question to Ross Simons' Customer Support link on Friday, June 5, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can I see a copy of your company's policy on conflict diamonds?
- I emailed this question to Ross Simons' Customer Support link on Friday, June 5, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can you show me a written guaranty from your diamond suppliers stating that your diamonds are conflict free?
- I emailed this question to Ross Simons' Customer Support link on Friday, June 5, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
- I emailed this question to Ross Simons' Customer Support link on Friday, June 5, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Do you know where the diamonds you sell come from?
- I emailed this question to Ross Simons' Customer Support link on Friday, June 5, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can I see a copy of your company's policy on conflict diamonds?
- I emailed this question to Ross Simons' Customer Support link on Friday, June 5, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can you show me a written guaranty from your diamond suppliers stating that your diamonds are conflict free?
- I emailed this question to Ross Simons' Customer Support link on Friday, June 5, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Diamond Accents
RedEnvelope only sells jewelry with diamond accents. Lets not overlook those though!
Can you be sure your RedEnvelope diamond is conflict free?
Questions and Answers
How can I be sure that none of your jewelry contains conflict diamonds?
- I emailed this question to RedEnvelope's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Do you know where the diamonds you sell come from?
- I emailed this question to RedEnvelope's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can I see a copy of your company's policy on conflict diamonds?
- I emailed this question to RedEnvelope's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can you show me a written guaranty from your diamond suppliers stating that your diamonds are conflict free?
- I emailed this question to RedEnvelope's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
- I emailed this question to RedEnvelope's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Do you know where the diamonds you sell come from?
- I emailed this question to RedEnvelope's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can I see a copy of your company's policy on conflict diamonds?
- I emailed this question to RedEnvelope's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can you show me a written guaranty from your diamond suppliers stating that your diamonds are conflict free?
- I emailed this question to RedEnvelope's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can you be sure your Overstock.com diamond is conflict free?
Questions and Answers
In the Overstock.com Community Page, they have a tool to ask their CEO, Patrick Byrne, a question directly. I saw no other customer service link available, so I went ahead and sent these questions to him!
How can I be sure that none of your jewelry contains conflict diamonds?
- I emailed this question to Overstock.com's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Do you know where the diamonds you sell come from?
- I emailed this question to Overstock.com's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can I see a copy of your company's policy on conflict diamonds?
- I emailed this question to Overstock.com's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can you show me a written guaranty from your diamond suppliers stating that your diamonds are conflict free?
- I emailed this question to Overstock.com's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
How can I be sure that none of your jewelry contains conflict diamonds?
- I emailed this question to Overstock.com's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Do you know where the diamonds you sell come from?
- I emailed this question to Overstock.com's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can I see a copy of your company's policy on conflict diamonds?
- I emailed this question to Overstock.com's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can you show me a written guaranty from your diamond suppliers stating that your diamonds are conflict free?
- I emailed this question to Overstock.com's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Overstock.com and Conflict Free Diamonds
What are they doing?
In the Diamond Buying Guide on Overstock.com's website, they state their policy on conflict diamonds in the following paragraph.
"Most of the world's diamonds are mined in Africa. Unfortunately, in some of those countries, militia groups illegally mine and smuggle diamonds to fund their fight against their governments. Such stones have come to be called "conflict diamonds," also called "blood diamonds." Overstock.com actively supports the United Nation's Kimberley Process Certification Scheme to help eliminate the sale of conflict diamonds and guarantees that all diamonds offered for sale on our site have been purchased from recognized, legitimate sources in compliance with all United Nations Resolutions and, to the best of our knowledge and ability, none of our diamonds fund any terrorist activity. Overstock.com makes this assurance based on personal knowledge or written guarantees provided by our diamond suppliers."
"Most of the world's diamonds are mined in Africa. Unfortunately, in some of those countries, militia groups illegally mine and smuggle diamonds to fund their fight against their governments. Such stones have come to be called "conflict diamonds," also called "blood diamonds." Overstock.com actively supports the United Nation's Kimberley Process Certification Scheme to help eliminate the sale of conflict diamonds and guarantees that all diamonds offered for sale on our site have been purchased from recognized, legitimate sources in compliance with all United Nations Resolutions and, to the best of our knowledge and ability, none of our diamonds fund any terrorist activity. Overstock.com makes this assurance based on personal knowledge or written guarantees provided by our diamond suppliers."
Can you be sure your Netaya diamond is conflict free?
Questions and Answers
How can I be sure that none of your jewelry contains conflict diamonds?
- I emailed this question to Netaya's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Do you know where the diamonds you sell come from?
- I emailed this question to Netaya's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can I see a copy of your company's policy on conflict diamonds?
- I emailed this question to Netaya's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can you show me a written guaranty from your diamond suppliers stating that your diamonds are conflict free?
- I emailed this question to Netaya's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
- I emailed this question to Netaya's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Do you know where the diamonds you sell come from?
- I emailed this question to Netaya's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can I see a copy of your company's policy on conflict diamonds?
- I emailed this question to Netaya's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can you show me a written guaranty from your diamond suppliers stating that your diamonds are conflict free?
- I emailed this question to Netaya's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Netaya.com and Conflict Free Diamonds
What are they doing about the situation?
On their site's page, "About Netaya, the following appears as their conflict-diamond policy.
"Special note regarding conflict diamonds:
All diamonds sold by Netaya.com have been purchased from legitimate sources not involved in funding conflict and in compliance with the United Nations Resolution."
"Special note regarding conflict diamonds:
All diamonds sold by Netaya.com have been purchased from legitimate sources not involved in funding conflict and in compliance with the United Nations Resolution."
Can you be sure your Macys diamond is conflict free?
Questions and Answers
How can I be sure that none of your jewelry contains conflict diamonds?
- I emailed this question to Macy's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Do you know where the diamonds you sell come from?
- I emailed this question to Macy's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can I see a copy of your company's policy on conflict diamonds?
- I emailed this question to Macy's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can you show me a written guaranty from your diamond suppliers stating that your diamonds are conflict free?
- I emailed this question to Macy's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
- I emailed this question to Macy's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Do you know where the diamonds you sell come from?
- I emailed this question to Macy's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can I see a copy of your company's policy on conflict diamonds?
- I emailed this question to Macy's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can you show me a written guaranty from your diamond suppliers stating that your diamonds are conflict free?
- I emailed this question to Macy's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can you be sure your K-Mart diamond is conflict free?
Questions and Answers
How can I be sure that none of your jewelry contains conflict diamonds?
- I emailed this question to Sears' Customer Support link on Friday, June 5, 2009. As K-Mart is owned by Sears Holding Corporation, I asked the Sears Customer Service team if they could also answer for K-Mart. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Do you know where the diamonds you sell come from?
- I emailed this question to Sears' Customer Support link on Friday, June 5, 2009. As K-Mart is owned by Sears Holding Corporation, I asked the Sears Customer Service team if they could also answer for K-Mart. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can I see a copy of your company's policy on conflict diamonds?
- I emailed this question to Sears' Customer Support link on Friday, June 5, 2009. As K-Mart is owned by Sears Holding Corporation, I asked the Sears Customer Service team if they could also answer for K-Mart. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can you show me a written guarantee from your diamond suppliers stating that your diamonds are conflict free?
- I emailed this question to Sears' Customer Support link on Friday, June 5, 2009. As K-Mart is owned by Sears Holding Corporation, I asked the Sears Customer Service team if they could also answer for K-Mart. I will post their response here when I receive it.
- I emailed this question to Sears' Customer Support link on Friday, June 5, 2009. As K-Mart is owned by Sears Holding Corporation, I asked the Sears Customer Service team if they could also answer for K-Mart. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Do you know where the diamonds you sell come from?
- I emailed this question to Sears' Customer Support link on Friday, June 5, 2009. As K-Mart is owned by Sears Holding Corporation, I asked the Sears Customer Service team if they could also answer for K-Mart. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can I see a copy of your company's policy on conflict diamonds?
- I emailed this question to Sears' Customer Support link on Friday, June 5, 2009. As K-Mart is owned by Sears Holding Corporation, I asked the Sears Customer Service team if they could also answer for K-Mart. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can you show me a written guarantee from your diamond suppliers stating that your diamonds are conflict free?
- I emailed this question to Sears' Customer Support link on Friday, June 5, 2009. As K-Mart is owned by Sears Holding Corporation, I asked the Sears Customer Service team if they could also answer for K-Mart. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can you be sure your ICE.com diamond is conflict free?
Questions and Answers
How can I be sure that none of your jewelry contains conflict diamonds?
- I have taken this answer from ICE.com's published policy on conflict diamonds
"At ICE.com we source our diamonds from the world's best, most respected and largest diamond suppliers. We make every effort, as do our suppliers, to ensure that we do not purchase or sell any conflict diamonds. We buy from suppliers who warrant that their diamonds are from sources free from conflict. We are committed to the highest standards on behalf of our customers."
Do you know where the diamonds you sell come from?
- I emailed this question to ICE.com's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it. In their published Conflict Diamond Policy, ICE.com states that they "buy from suppliers who warrant that their diamonds are from sources free from conflict." I emailed their CMO again on Wednesday, June 10, to see if they'd like to provide a more specific answer.
Can I see a copy of your company's policy on conflict diamonds?
- ICE.com's policy on conflict diamonds is available online (http://www.ice.com/content/conflict_diamonds_faq.jsp).
Can you show me a written guaranty from your diamond suppliers stating that your diamonds are conflict free?
- I emailed this question to ICE.com's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. In their published Conflict Diamond Policy, ICE.com states that they "buy from suppliers who warrant that their diamonds are from sources free from conflict." I emailed their CMO again on Wednesday, June 10, to see if they'd like to provide a more specific answer.
- I have taken this answer from ICE.com's published policy on conflict diamonds
"At ICE.com we source our diamonds from the world's best, most respected and largest diamond suppliers. We make every effort, as do our suppliers, to ensure that we do not purchase or sell any conflict diamonds. We buy from suppliers who warrant that their diamonds are from sources free from conflict. We are committed to the highest standards on behalf of our customers."
Do you know where the diamonds you sell come from?
- I emailed this question to ICE.com's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it. In their published Conflict Diamond Policy, ICE.com states that they "buy from suppliers who warrant that their diamonds are from sources free from conflict." I emailed their CMO again on Wednesday, June 10, to see if they'd like to provide a more specific answer.
Can I see a copy of your company's policy on conflict diamonds?
- ICE.com's policy on conflict diamonds is available online (http://www.ice.com/content/conflict_diamonds_faq.jsp).
Can you show me a written guaranty from your diamond suppliers stating that your diamonds are conflict free?
- I emailed this question to ICE.com's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. In their published Conflict Diamond Policy, ICE.com states that they "buy from suppliers who warrant that their diamonds are from sources free from conflict." I emailed their CMO again on Wednesday, June 10, to see if they'd like to provide a more specific answer.
The ICE.com response to my questions
I received a response from the CMO within 2 business days.
In her email of June 10, ICE.com CMO, Pinny Gniwisch, pointed me to ICE.com's published policy on conflict diamonds.
I would be interested to see if they can provide more specific information regarding where the diamonds that they purchase come from and also regarding the warranty accompanying these diamonds (i.e. how long they hold the warranty for and what it states). I've replied to the email with these additional questions and will post the response here when I receive it.
I would be interested to see if they can provide more specific information regarding where the diamonds that they purchase come from and also regarding the warranty accompanying these diamonds (i.e. how long they hold the warranty for and what it states). I've replied to the email with these additional questions and will post the response here when I receive it.
Can You Be Sure Your eBay diamonds are conflict free?
Questions and Answers
I'm afraid the answers to these questions will vary with each eBay seller. eBay has very nicely put together a buying guide to help you understand conflict diamonds. Read this information very carefully. Then, be sure to ask the four Amnesty USA-recommended questions below and make your purchase even more carefully.
A good strategy for ensure conflict-free diamond purchases on eBay is to shop only for vintage secon-hand or "estate" diamond jewelry.
How can I be sure that your diamonds are not conflict diamonds?
Do you know where the diamonds you sell come from?
Can I see a copy of your company's policy on conflict diamonds?
Can you show me a written guaranty from your diamond suppliers stating that your diamonds are conflict free?
A good strategy for ensure conflict-free diamond purchases on eBay is to shop only for vintage secon-hand or "estate" diamond jewelry.
How can I be sure that your diamonds are not conflict diamonds?
Do you know where the diamonds you sell come from?
Can I see a copy of your company's policy on conflict diamonds?
Can you show me a written guaranty from your diamond suppliers stating that your diamonds are conflict free?
Estate Diamond Jewelry on eBay
Vintage jewelry poses no questions
One way to be 100% sure that your diamond purchase hasn't funded any conflicts in Africa is to purchase second-hand estate jewelry. In addition to be definitely conflict-free, your purchase will also not be bringing much-needed money in to any African communities.
Fetching new data from eBay now... please stand by
Can you be sure your Diamond.com diamond is conflict free?
Questions and Answers
How can I be sure that none of your jewelry contains conflict diamonds?
- I emailed this question to diamond.com's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Do you know where the diamonds you sell come from?
- I emailed this question to diamond.com's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can I see a copy of your company's policy on conflict diamonds?
- I emailed this question to diamond.com's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can you show me a written guaranty from your diamond suppliers stating that your diamonds are conflict free?
- I emailed this question to diamond.com's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
- I emailed this question to diamond.com's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Do you know where the diamonds you sell come from?
- I emailed this question to diamond.com's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can I see a copy of your company's policy on conflict diamonds?
- I emailed this question to diamond.com's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can you show me a written guaranty from your diamond suppliers stating that your diamonds are conflict free?
- I emailed this question to diamond.com's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can you be sure your Buy.com diamond is conflict free?
Questions and Answers
How can I be sure that none of your jewelry contains conflict diamonds?
- I emailed this question to buy.com's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Do you know where the diamonds you sell come from?
- I emailed this question to buy.com's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can I see a copy of your company's policy on conflict diamonds?
- I emailed this question to buy.com's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can you show me a written guaranty from your diamond suppliers stating that your diamonds are conflict free?
- I emailed this question to buy.com's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
- I emailed this question to buy.com's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Do you know where the diamonds you sell come from?
- I emailed this question to buy.com's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can I see a copy of your company's policy on conflict diamonds?
- I emailed this question to buy.com's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can you show me a written guaranty from your diamond suppliers stating that your diamonds are conflict free?
- I emailed this question to buy.com's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can you be sure your Amazon.com diamond is conflict free?
Questions and Answers
How can I be sure that none of your jewelry contains conflict diamonds?
- I emailed this question to amazon.com's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Do you know where the diamonds you sell come from?
- I emailed this question to amazon.com's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can I see a copy of your company's policy on conflict diamonds?
- I emailed this question to amazon.com's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can you show me a written guaranty from your diamond suppliers stating that your diamonds are conflict free?
- I emailed this question to amazon.com's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
- I emailed this question to amazon.com's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Do you know where the diamonds you sell come from?
- I emailed this question to amazon.com's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can I see a copy of your company's policy on conflict diamonds?
- I emailed this question to amazon.com's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
Can you show me a written guaranty from your diamond suppliers stating that your diamonds are conflict free?
- I emailed this question to amazon.com's Customer Support link on Monday, June 8, 2009. I will post their response here when I receive it.
The Amazon.com Response To My Questions
I received a reply in less than 24 hours.
On Tuesday, June 9, 2009, I received the following email reply in response to my June 8, 2009 inquiry to Amazon.com.
"Thank you for contacting us at Amazon.com.
We appreciate your concerns about the sale of conflict diamonds. Like other reputable jewelry retailers, Amazon.com supports United Nations Security Council resolutions and the efforts of the World Diamond Council to ensure that no conflict diamonds reach the legitimate diamond market.
Amazon.com asks vendors not to supply us with conflict diamonds, and takes every measure we can to ensure that we are not receiving such stones. As a retailer, we cannot control all stages of the supply chain; however, we purchase our diamonds by legal means from well-established vendors.
Thank you for choosing Amazon.com.
Please let us know if this e-mail resolved your question:"
I responded promptly on the afternoon of June 9, 2009, inviting them to have a look at this page and asking again what they would like printed for their answers to the four questions.
"Thank you for contacting us at Amazon.com.
We appreciate your concerns about the sale of conflict diamonds. Like other reputable jewelry retailers, Amazon.com supports United Nations Security Council resolutions and the efforts of the World Diamond Council to ensure that no conflict diamonds reach the legitimate diamond market.
Amazon.com asks vendors not to supply us with conflict diamonds, and takes every measure we can to ensure that we are not receiving such stones. As a retailer, we cannot control all stages of the supply chain; however, we purchase our diamonds by legal means from well-established vendors.
Thank you for choosing Amazon.com.
Please let us know if this e-mail resolved your question:"
I responded promptly on the afternoon of June 9, 2009, inviting them to have a look at this page and asking again what they would like printed for their answers to the four questions.
Official Organizations Promoting Conflict-Free Diamonds
Who is upholding a conflict-free diamond supply.
Visit the official websites of the major organizations that are ensuring the world's diamond supply is conflict free.
- The World Diamond Council
- Find out everything you need to know to make an informed diamond purchase. Learn major facts about diamonds in general, learn more about the Kimberley Process, find out the steps you should take to ensure your diamond purchase is not a conflict diamond purchase, learn about diamonds from their formation and mining to the actual retail end and learn more about who the World Diamond Council is.
- Kimberley Process
- The official website of the Kimberley Process. Visit it to check news, view documents, contact them and more.
- Council For Responsible Jewellery Practices
- Visit the website of this not-for-profit organization representing over 80 member companies. See who is a member, see the criteria for inclusion, view press for this organization and get involved yourself.
- Jewelers of America
- Read the Jewelers of America guidance articles on Conflict Diamonds as well as Responsible Gold and other precious stones & metals as well as jewelsry practices. Find a JA member or apply for membership yourself if you're a jeweler.
What Do You Do To Ensure A Conflict Free Diamond Purchase
Suggestions on how you make sure your diamond is not a "blood diamond"
What are some of the steps you've taken as a consumer to make sure that your diamond purchase is a socially-conscious one and you are not purchasing a "blood diamond" or conflict diamond? Please let us know here. Also feel free to let us know of anything you've learned while visiting this lens and if you will be changing your jewelry buying habits!
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What is your solution to conflict diamonds?
How are you helping to diminish the presence of illicitly traded rough diamonds?
Everyone can do a little. What are you doing to ensure that your diamond purchase is one that is to the benefit of an African nation rather than a "conflict diamond"?
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