The Kimberley Process Certification Scheme was established in 2000 in an effort to end the trade of conflict diamonds. All rough diamonds are only to be traded between member countries and be accompanied by a government issued Kimberley Process certificate.

While not concerned with either the environmental or economic issues related to the diamond trade, in theory, the Kimberley Process would be a great idea for addressing the ethical impact surrounding conflict diamonds.

However, the greatest drawback to the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme is the lack of enforcement or regulation. Any claim that the Kimberley Process guarantees the consumer that they’re purchasing a clean diamond cannot be verified with substantial direct or indirect evidence.

The claim: Many jewelers claim that their diamonds are conflict free because they only purchase stones certified by the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme.

Direct evidence: The Kimberley Process is not well enforced. Recommendations made to countries with glaring infractions are not thoroughly followed-up on. It has taken up to three years to expel non-complying countries from The Kimberley Process.

Indirect evidence: Current reports of conflict and terrorism being funded by conflict diamonds.

Source: Killing Kimberley? Conflict Diamonds and Paper Tigers Revised, Partnership Africa Canada November 2006