Conflict Diamonds
Helzberg Diamonds policy on Conflict Diamonds
Helzberg Diamonds is committed to the ongoing global effort to stop the trade in
conflict diamonds, a term that refers to diamonds that have been used to fuel
decades-long wars and atrocities in many African countries, and that are
suspected to have financed terrorist activities.
Helzberg Diamonds is committed to upholding the highest human rights standards
when purchasing diamonds and jewelry. We are also working with the industry to
ensure that all members of the supply chain purchase diamonds that come from
sources that meet the same high standards.
We actively support the efforts of our industry trade associations, the World
Diamond Council and the Jewelers of America, who joined forces with the United
Nations, other government bodies and commercial interests, to develop a workable
system to certify the sources of uncut diamonds.
This system, known as the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme, was formally
adopted in November 2002 and took effect on January 1, 2003. More than 60
countries have adopted the system. The United States passed the Clean Diamond
Trade Act, which legally reinforces the principles of the Kimberley Process, on
April 25, 2003.
The Kimberley Process Certification Scheme requires that each shipment of rough
diamonds - before the stones are cut and polished - be sealed in a
tamper-resistant container and accompanied by a uniquely numbered certificate of
origin detailing the container's contents.
Helzberg Diamonds strongly supports the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme
for rough diamonds. We believe this is the most effective way to keep conflict
diamonds out of reputable distributors and retailers.
Participating countries have agreed to turn back any shipments that do not
subscribe to these new standards. The United States Customs and Border Patrol
are responsible for enforcing the laws at American ports.
To supplement the program, the International Diamond Manufacturers Association
and the World Federation of Diamond Bourses have established a series of written
warranties to protect the seller each time diamonds change hands, regardless of
whether the stones are rough or polished diamonds or diamond jewelry.
