The Kimberley Process is an international certification scheme that was established in 2003 in response to concerns about the trade in conflict diamonds, also known as « blood diamonds. » The goal of the Kimberley Process is to prevent the flow of conflict diamonds and ensure that diamond purchases do not fuel violence or human rights abuses.

Conflict diamonds refer to diamonds that are mined and sold in areas controlled by rebel groups or factions that are opposed to legitimate and internationally recognized governments. These groups often use the proceeds from the sale of conflict diamonds to fund their illegal activities, such as civil wars and terrorism.

The Kimberley Process involves the participation of 81 countries, including major diamond producing and trading nations. These countries are required to implement strict regulations and controls on their diamond trade in order to meet the standards of the Kimberley Process. This includes tracking the movement of diamonds from the point of origin to the point of sale, and conducting regular audits to ensure compliance.

In order to be certified under the Kimberley Process, a diamond must be produced in a country that is a member of the scheme and must be transported through a chain of custody that is certified by the Kimberley Process. This ensures that the diamond has not been mined or traded in a conflict zone.

Diamonds that are certified under the Kimberley Process are identified by a unique serial number and a certificate of authenticity. This allows consumers to know that the diamonds they are purchasing have been ethically and sustainably sourced.

The Kimberley Process has been successful in reducing the trade in conflict diamonds, but it has faced criticism for not being strict enough and for not addressing other human rights abuses in the diamond industry. In response to these concerns, the Kimberley Process has introduced new regulations and expanded its scope to include issues such as child labor and environmental degradation.

Overall, the Kimberley Process is an important initiative that seeks to promote responsible diamond production and trade. By ensuring that diamonds are not used to finance conflict and human rights abuses, the Kimberley Process helps to promote peace and stability in diamond-producing regions.