What You Need to Know to Authenticate Conflict Free Diamonds (2022)

THE BASICS ---

Diamonds are universally stunning gems, but they can also be controversial, especially in our increasingly social justice-conscious world. Whether it is for an engagement ring, a cocktail ring, a pair of earrings, a pendant or any other piece of diamond jewelry, more and more buyers are looking beyond the perfect diamond, they also want to be sure that diamond is conflict-free and ethically sourced.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW---

What Is a Conflict-Free Diamond?

While diamonds often symbolize love, romance and commitment, it is sadly unfortunate that many of the world's most productive diamond mines are located in regions torn by civil war, terrorism and violence. To better reduce funds for such rebellions.

What is The Kimberley Process?

The United Nations established the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme in 2003. This process tracks rough diamonds from their mines to the market to ensure funds from the sales and processing of each stone are not used for unlawful uprisings against recognized governments. Because stones with Kimberley Process certification can be thoroughly traced to their origins, they are thus considered conflict-free with regards to organized rebellions.

The Kimberley Process has been endorsed and accepted by more than 80 nations. Reputable diamond dealers and jewelry retailers around the world rely on its safeguards and restrictions when purchasing new diamonds, and when diamonds are certified as conflict-free through this process, buyers can be reassured that their lovely stones don't have a bloody taint in their history.

Beyond Rebel Conflicts

Unfortunately, it is impossible to guarantee that any diamond is completely free of violence, conflict and other unsavory dealings. While the Kimberley Process is excellent at ensuring diamonds are not used to support organized rebel conflicts, there are other types of violence and social injustice that the process does not protect against, such as…

•  Terrorist organizations using the country as a base but without rebelling against the nations recognized government

•  Violations of labor laws, including child labor, unsafe working conditions, lack of worker benefits and exploitation of workers

•  Environmental damage from irresponsible mining processes and lack of effort to restore mined areas to natural conditions

•   Human rights violations, such as sexual slavery, gender biases, genocidal policies, torture and other inhuman acts.

Vintage Engagement Rings Are Truly Conflict-Free

Because it is so difficult to ensure that any modern stones are absolutely conflict-free and ethically sourced, many conscientious diamond buyers are turning to antique engagement rings and vintage stones. These stones were sourced long before modern conflicts and therefore the profits they created could not have been funneled into violent acts. 

•  Supporting Change With Every Vintage Ring

Even more than ensuring the origins of a diamond are conflict-free, many couples or anyone interested in buying engagement rings today would like their purchase to do even more good. Many jewelry retailers support local charities and social causes, ensuring that such significant purchases give back to local communities and important research that can benefit people around the world.

Choosing Conflict Free Rings

VintageDiamondRing.com never sources new or modern gemstones.  All of our engagement rings are purchased from estates worldwide, and are dated well before the 1970s, when many modern conflicts originated.  This ensures our gemstones have ethical and conflict-free origins.  By choosing a conflict free engagement ring, couples can find a vintage ring that showcases their love for each other, their unique style and flair, along with their love for a healthy planet.

Vintage Engagement Rings For Everyone:

No matter which era is your favorite, these time-honored pieces have a rich history and individualized character and will continue to have a timeless beauty and elegant appeal that is part of a legacy to pass on to future generations. All of these antique diamond rings are stunning in their own way, with decades, even centuries, of history and beauty behind them, making any one an amazing choice for a distinguished piece of jewelry.

Find The Perfect Engagement Ring:

Antique diamond cuts are prized not only for their beauty but also for their exquisite attention to detailing and faceting. If you’re looking for a ring with a sense of glamour, sophistication and vintage charm, explore our collection of conflict free engagement rings today!

Suzanne Sachs

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