What is the Kimberley Process, and why is it crucial for ethical diamond trading?
The Kimberley Process Certification Scheme represents a groundbreaking initiative to eliminate conflict diamonds from the global market. Launched through collaboration between governments, industry leaders, and NGOs, this system works to prevent diamonds that fund violent conflicts from entering legitimate trade channels. With 77 participating nations, including the EU, the scheme oversees 99.80% of worldwide rough diamond trade.
The process requires member countries to implement strict regulations and certification procedures, allowing diamonds to be traced from mine to market. This transparency helps protect human rights and converts exploitative labor practices into fair employment opportunities. While the system isn't perfect, with some conflict diamonds occasionally slipping through, companies like BAUNAT maintain strict adherence to these standards, ensuring customers receive only certified conflict-free diamonds while making smart investment choices.