How to Spot a Conflict Diamond

Conflict diamonds, often called blood diamonds, are those gems that are mined in unsafe and illegal working conditions, the sale of which fund civil wars and guerrilla fighting in several parts of Africa. Of course, nobody wants to purchase these diamonds and thus contribute to the problem, but recognizing a conflict diamond can sometimes be difficult. The best way to spot a conflict diamond is to know how to spot a non-conflict diamond, so look below for some tips.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Research your retailers. Only buy from reputable retailers to reduce chances of purchasing a conflict diamond. Use the Internet and consumer guides to help evaluate sources.
2. Interrogate your retailer. Make sure your retailer sounds comfortable and experienced answering questions on the company's conflict diamond policy under the Kimberley Process and the World Diamond Council's Chain of Warranties. If they don't know about these things, under no circumstances purchase their stock.
3. Demand a written guarantee that your diamond is a conflict-free stone. As part of the new diamond regulation laws (Kimberley process), retailers have to provide this guarantee. Any refusal to do so could hint that the diamond has been harvested illegally.
4. Certify rough-cut stones. Expect certification of origin with all rough-cut pieces. Avoid purchases from Sierra Leone, Liberia, Angola and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
5. Ask to see retailer's invoices from diamond suppliers. Those abiding by the new laws will share this information, showing the conflict-free guarantees from diamond suppliers. Transparency is key to an informed purchase.
6. Buy only what your instinct tells you is fine. If something about the documentation provided doesn't look quite right or the jeweler had difficulty answering questions about conflict diamonds, something could be wrong. Even if they provide the paperwork and you still don't feel comfortable, don't buy.
7. Enjoy your conflict free diamond. Knowing you took the time to ensure your purchase did not support terrorism, civil war or child labor, your purchase means so much more. Being an informed consumer is an easy way to change the world.

Tips & Warnings

• Amnesty USA suggests every diamond purchaser poses these questions to their retailer: "How can I be sure that none of your jewelry contains conflicts 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 guarantee from your diamond suppliers stating that your diamonds are conflict-free?"
• Because of the Kimberley Process, the rate of conflict diamonds is down to around 1 percent meaning your chances of accidental purchase are slim. But, in order to keep that percentage low, consumers must be aware at all times that the possibility still exists and retailers should be kept on their toes.