What is GIAs position on the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme?
In 2000, GIA began working closely with the World Diamond Council (WDC) in a technical capacity, as the WDC led the international diamond industry’s efforts to stem the illegal flow of conflict diamonds into the international marketplace. GIA’s work concentrated on research into diamond composition and origin. GIA testified before Congress on this topic and participated in a White House Conference on Conflict Diamonds. GIA fully supports the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme and upholds its principles, though we do not handle rough diamonds and are not directly involved (few in the diamond pipeline actually do handle rough). GIA’s role is now largely behind-the-scenes, serving as an engaged observer of the issue and remaining supportive of the Kimberley Process.
