Friedman’s believes that the trade of conflict diamonds is a very serious problem. This belief prompted us to voluntarily institute the Friedman ’ s Jewelers Conflict Free Program with our vendors. Through this Program our vendors are required to submit signed statements assuring us that the diamonds we obtain from them come from sources that are legitimate and not involved in funding conflict.
Frequently Asked Questions about Conflict Diamonds
What are Conflict Diamonds?
Certain rebel movements in Africa are selling diamonds illegally to fund conflict against legitimate and internationally recognized governments. As such, these diamonds are considered “conflict diamonds” or what some call “blood diamonds.” Historically, conflict diamonds represented only a fraction of the world’s trade, but the diamond industry recognized their moral duty to act on this issue and mounted a united front to stop the trade in conflict diamonds. Today, conflict diamonds account for considerably less than 1% of the world’s diamond supply.
What is The Kimberley Process?
Our industry recognized the importance of this issue many years ago. In the year 2000, a joint initiative was formed by governments, the international diamond industry and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to regulate the international trade in rough diamonds to ensure diamonds were not used to fund rebel activities. This initiative became known as the Kimberley Process. Today, approximately sixty-eight governments, in partnership with the NGOs and the diamond industry, are committed and legally bound to this United Nations mandated process.
What is The System of Warranties?
In order to assure customers of the origin of their diamonds, a System of Warranties was adopted by the international diamond industry. Every buyer and seller of rough diamonds, polished diamonds and jewelry containing diamonds must make the following statement on all invoices:
“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.”
How Does the Sale of Diamonds Benefit People and Communities Around the World?
The diamond industry, directly and indirectly, supports an estimated 10 million people, many in third world and developing countries. For example, the diamond industry contributes more than $8.3 billion per year to Africa’s economy. By selling diamonds, the southern African region has been able to address the HIV pandemic through education, treatment, clinics and hospices. Also, in Botswana every child receives a free education to the age of 18. Consumers can buy diamonds with confidence that they are helping to positively impact the southern African region and the lives of its people.
We support the Kimberly Process and require our trade suppliers to subscribe to the System of Warranties in order to assure you and us that the diamonds we sell are conflict free.
For further information regarding conflict diamonds, visit our source: http://www.diamondfacts.org/.
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