Blood Diamonds: Drivers, Impact, and Progress Toward Ethical Sourcing

Blood (conflict) diamonds fund armed groups against legitimate governments. Key drivers:

1. Geology: Alluvial deposits in conflict zones (Sierra Leone, Angola, DRC, CAR) easily mined/controlled.
2. Global demand: Jewelry market fuels trade.
3. Weak governance: State inability to monitor mines/borders.
4. Corruption: Officials facilitate smuggling.
5. Opacity: Complex supply chains mix conflict/clean stones.
6. Kimberley Process (KP) flaws: Narrow definition (rebel-only), consensus voting, smuggling loopholes.

Impact

• War prolongation, atrocities, child soldiers, displacement.
• Economic distortion, environmental degradation.

Progress

KP reduced conflict diamonds from ~15% to <1% of trade. Responsible sourcing (RJC, blockchain traceability), consumer awareness, and stronger legislation (US Clean Diamond Trade Act, EU Conflict Minerals Regulation) continue pressure.