Conflict diamonds policy
We require our diamond suppliers to warrant that they will not source diamonds from conflict regions. This enables us to meet the aims and requirements of the Kimberley Process.
The United Nations defines conflict diamonds as “those diamonds that originate from areas controlled by forces or factions opposed to legitimate and internationally recognised governments, and are used to fund military action in opposition to those governments, or in contravention of decisions of the United Nations Security Council.”
We want to be able to reassure our customers and employees that we do not sell diamonds from such sources.
The Kimberly Process
The Kimberley Process established a certification scheme which has been in effect since 1 January 2003. Rough diamonds must be exported in sealed containers with numbered, government issued certificates of origin. Once diamonds have been cut, a system of warranties complements the Kimberley Process.
Supplier requirements
Our diamond suppliers must provide written confirmation that
- Diamonds are sourced from non-conflict regions
- Diamonds conform to the Kimberley Process certification scheme
- An audit trail is in place which fully supports this statement.
We will:
- Cease trading with suppliers who are unable to provide these assurances
- Alert store staff to the conflict diamonds policy via training manuals etc.
Responsibility
The Group Head of Quality Assurance is responsible for the implementation of this policy.
