Conflict Free Diamonds Are a Myth

Conflict Free Diamonds Are a Myth

In the last several years there has been a lot of talk about the sourcing of diamonds and some companies pride themselves on sourcing conflict free diamonds. Many couples when making considerations on what engagement rings, Valentine’s day gifts, or diamond wedding bands they want, consider seeking out companies that make claims about sourcing conflict diamonds.

What is A Conflict Diamond?

Conflict diamonds are said to be diamonds that are mined from areas controlled by unofficial militia that are fighting the region’s existing official government. Diamonds are a primary source of income for these militia forces to purchase weapons and feed their armies while subjugating the population they control into slave labor and other human rights abuses. Conflict diamonds became a global issue in the early 2000’s when it was widely reported that the Sierra Leone civil war was being funded by conflict diamonds, otherwise known as blood diamonds. This led to the creation of the Clean Diamond Trade Act in 2003 in the U.S. and the implementation of the Kimberly Process which partners with governments and traders around the world to increase transparency about the origin of Diamonds.

     

Anty’s Marquise cut ring 18K White Gold showcases 28 small round brilliant diamond weighing 0.28 carats and 1 marquise cut diamond stone 0.22 carats diamond. 

Why is it Impossible to Trace the Origin of Diamonds?

Some well-known old jewelry houses own their own diamond mines and can trace their diamonds back to their mines. However, remember that jewelry houses also source different colored diamonds (pink diamonds, yellow diamonds etc.) too. Over 90% of rough diamonds are sent to South Asia (India and Pakistan) to get cut. Once Diamonds go through this process, it can be difficult to tell where a diamond came from. The only thing that determines a diamonds price is the cut, clarity, and carat. That being said, at ANTY we do our best to source conflict free diamonds.

Lab grown diamonds have been gaining a lot of popularity recently. Some consumers are buying into the lab grown market which gives you large diamonds for a fraction of the price. Of course, while lab grown diamonds and naturally mined diamonds are chemically similar, lab diamonds do not hold the same resale value as natural diamonds.

Lab Grown Diamonds vs. Natural Diamonds

Here at Anty, we only procure natural diamonds. Some people appreciate the natural process that made their high carat diamond tennis bracelet, diamond stud earrings, or 5 carat diamond ring, others appreciate that technology can replicate the natural process in a lab at the fraction of the time. Mined diamonds preserve their value over time. Natural diamonds can take anywhere between 1 billion and 3 billion years to form! Compare that to under 10 weeks in a lab, no wonder naturally mined diamonds are valued as antiques and hold a special place in history.

Other Options

Diamonds are not the only natural stones. Rubies and Sapphires are made from the mineral corundum. Trace elements give Rubies and Sapphires different colors. Emeralds are made from the mineral beryl and are always green. The intensity of green in emeralds often vary. These stones are naturally mined in certain parts of the world. Sapphires are found in Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Tanzania, Madagascar, and Montana. Rubies are typically found in the same regions as sapphires. Colombia, Brazil, and Zambia are famous for emeralds. Sapphires and rubies are the third hardest elements even with diamonds being 90 times harder! Another option for cheap engagement rings is moissanite rings. This is a lab made stone that is a silicone carbide that was created in the 20th century. While moissanite engagement rings are an enticing option for some people, it is important to remember that moissanite loses anywhere between 50% to 60% of its retail value after purchasing. There are other trends moving towards colored stones, however, natural diamonds remain the top choice for engagement rings and luxury necklaces.

Gold Jewelry

When done right, Gold can be sustainably mined and be more of green investment than equities. Because of the nature of the mining process and also transport logistics compared to diamonds, gold is not widely used to finance wars and conflicts. Whether it’s a gold wedding band ring set or a gold chain necklace, gold is the metal of choice for most people. Yellow gold hoop earrings, gold link necklaces, and gold engagement rings are all jewelry that can be stylish statements while being great investments.

 Anty’s Chain Ring  in 18k Yellow Gold with modern look.

At the end of the day, its most important for the wearer to decide what a piece of jewelry means to them. Remember ANTY is you. Natural diamonds, lab diamonds, emeralds, sapphires, rubies, emeralds, or moissanite, drop a comment below and tell us what your preferences are!