http://thecommongroundblog.com/2011/06/21/zimabwes-conflict-diamonds-the-controversy/ Conflict transformation, one story at a time Thu, 08 Sep 2011 14:56:49 +0000 hourly 1 http://wordpress.com/ http://thecommongroundblog.com/2011/06/21/zimabwes-conflict-diamonds-the-controversy/#comment-5205 Wed, 29 Jun 2011 23:43:49 +0000 http://thecommongroundblog.com/?p=5766#comment-5205 This is a terrific summary of the situation in Zimbabwe and the challenges faced by the Kimberley Process. Also, It’s alarming that the Kimberley Process is being talked about as a good model for stopping conflict minerals. Thanks for explaining why a far better certification system is needed — both for diamonds and for minerals such as gold, tin, tantalum, and tungsten. I’ll just add one point. In the absence of better certification systems, another way to drive change is for consumers of jewelry and electronics to demand higher standards. Presently, many consumers don’t know about the weaknesses in the Kimberley Process. However, if consumers refuse to purchase jewelry that is not produced in an ethical way, the Kimberley Process will be forced to raise its standards — or, new certification systems will evolve that truly work. — GK, http://www.brilliantearth.com

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