Path of Righteousness

The story behind a conflict-free stone relies in its certification process

By Danielle Cadet
CTW Features

Although conflict-free stones make up the majority of available products, it is difficult to track their origin without proper certification. Here's how couples can ensure they purchase conflict-free diamonds for their big day:

Border Issues

Once a gem crosses national borders, it can quickly lose its identity. Transportation and long supply chains can allow for conflict diamonds to sneak into the global market with legitimate stones, so it's important for the diamond to be mined, cut and polished in the same region or territory without crossing any borders.

Engraved Identity

The diamond must be laser engraved with a serial number, then scanned and recorded in a confidential database. This process gives each stone an individual identity making it traceable from mine to manufacturer to consumer.

Strict Supervision

As it moves through the various production stages, the diamond must go through a rigorous monitoring system to ensure source and authenticity. The process helps to filter clean diamonds from conflict diamonds by conducting random factory inspections.

Play Fair

Diamonds may be conflict-free but can be easily tarnished if manufacturers practice unfair labor methods. Conscious jewels must be mined, cut and polished at facilities that adhere to global labor and fair wage laws and employ local residents. This helps guarantee that the profit generated by mines and manufacturers are reinvested into the local community.

Stamp of Approval

The stone must have a certificate from the regional government program certifying that all stages of production were corrupt-free and all prior standards were met.

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