How to Buy Conflict-Free Diamonds

Conflict-free diamonds are diamonds whose sales aren't used to fund violent conflicts within a country. Diamonds that are certified conflict-free are traced from the mine to the consumer. There's still no guarantee that a diamond is entirely conflict-free, but with the recent implementation of the Kimberly Process Certification Scheme (KPCS), the market is improving.

Instructions

1

Ask your jeweler how you can be sure the diamonds are conflict-free. Then ask where the diamonds come from. Areas in West Africa are particularly volatile, but since conflict diamonds cross many borders, there's no guarantee that even a diamond from Canada is conflict-free. You also have to trust that the jeweler is truthful.

2

Request the merchant's policy regarding conflict diamonds and a written guarantee that the diamonds are conflict-free. Few jewelers offer to provide this. The large chain Zales has this information available online.

3

Look for certificates that accompany the gem. A KPCS or a GNWT are both valid certificates that ensure the diamond is conflict-free from mine to consumer.

4

Shop for the Canadian brands Polar Bear and Polar Ice. Both participate in the Government of the Northwest Territories (GNWT) diamond certificate program. Or search online for other appropriate merchants, such as Zales.