What are Conflict Diamonds?

Conflict diamonds, also known as 'blood' diamonds, refer to rough diamonds (uncut) that originate from countries mired in civil war and which are used to fund armed conflict. The source of these conflict stones are relegated to a few countries in West Africa such as the Congo and Cote d'Ivoire.

What's Being Done About Conflict Diamonds?

In recent years, the international community developed a protocol called the Kimberley Process which requires rough diamonds to be marked with a Certificate of Origin.

Kimberley Process Scheme (KPS) papers are not issued for stones from areas/mines known to produce 'conflict' stones. Furthermore, diamond rough without proper KPS documentation are confiscated at country borders and prevented from entering the global marketplace. Canada is proudly a very active participant in this global initiative. For a list of all participating countries and more information, visit the official Kimberley Process Website at www.kimberleyprocess.com.

How Do I Know my Diamond is Not a 'Conflict' Diamond?

We at Engage take this matter very seriously. We work closely with our diamond cutters/suppliers and require in written form that they comply 100% with all UN resolutions and Kimberley Process protocols in order to do business with us.

For those who desire absolute certainty, we also carry a line of Canadian diamonds. These are diamonds which are mined, cut and polished in Canada's Northwest Territories. Each diamond is accompanied by a Certificate of Origin with a matching serial number laser-inscribed on the girdle of the diamond. These diamonds typically demand a 5 to 10% premium over non-Canadian stones. However, you'll know exactly where your diamond came from (right down to the exact mine) and also have the opportunity to support our national trade.