How Did The Kimberley Process Start?
The allure of diamonds has captivated humanity for centuries, symbolizing wealth, love, and commitment. However, the journey of these precious stones from mine to market hasn't always been pristine. In the late 20th century, the world became increasingly aware of "conflict diamonds"—rough diamonds used by rebel movements to finance wars against legitimate governments, particularly in Africa. This revelation spurred the international community into action, leading to the establishment of the Kimberley Process.
The devastating impact of conflict diamonds gained widespread attention in the 1990s, fueling brutal civil wars in countries like Angola, Sierra Leone, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. These diamonds, often mined under horrific conditions, were sold to fund rebel groups, perpetuating violence and instability. The severity of this issue was thrust into the spotlight with the release of the 2006 film Blood Diamond, which brought global awareness to the human cost behind some of the world’s most sought-after gems.
Recognizing the urgent need to address this issue, governments, civil society, and the diamond industry convened in Kimberley, South Africa, in May 2000. This landmark meeting led to the establishment of the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) in 2003. The KPCS implemented strict requirements to regulate the production and trade of rough diamonds, ensuring they are certified as conflict-free before reaching international markets. This system has since helped to significantly reduce the trade of conflict diamonds worldwide.
What Is The Kimberley Process?
The Kimberley Process is an international certification scheme established to prevent the trade of conflict diamonds—rough diamonds used to fund violence and civil wars. Launched in 2003, it ensures that diamonds crossing international borders are certified as conflict-free, following strict guidelines involving governments, civil society, and the diamond industry. The process aims to protect legitimate diamond trade and promote ethical practices, giving consumers confidence that their diamonds are responsibly sourced.
Our Commitment To The Kimberley Process
At Baldwin Jewellery, we believe that the true value of a diamond lies not only in its beauty but also in its ethical and sustainable origins. That’s why we are deeply committed to upholding the principles of the Kimberley Process and ensuring that every diamond we offer meets the highest ethical standards.
Our commitment starts with sourcing. We partner exclusively with reputable suppliers who are fully compliant with the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme. This means that every natural diamond we sell is carefully tracked from its origin, ensuring it is conflict-free and responsibly mined. In addition, we offer lab-grown diamonds, which provide an even more sustainable and eco-friendly alternative without compromising on quality or brilliance.
Our dedication extends beyond sourcing. By adhering to strict ethical guidelines, we actively contribute to the global effort to eliminate the trade of conflict diamonds. This ensures that your jewellery not only looks stunning but also represents a thoughtful and responsible choice.
For us, transparency is key. We are proud to share the journey of our diamonds with our customers, giving you the confidence that your purchase supports ethical practices and sustainable development within the jewellery industry.
When you choose Baldwin Jewellery, you’re not just investing in a beautiful piece of jewellery—you’re supporting a company that values integrity, fairness, and the well-being of those involved in creating it. We take pride in offering diamonds that bring joy to our customers while respecting the people and communities at the heart of the diamond trade.
If you'd would like to learn more about the Kimberley Process you can visit their site here.