The Diamond Industry: Little Known Facts

The diamond industry has a pretty negative reputation, partly due to the certain practises that relate to the industry, such as mining for blood diamonds, but also due to a public misconception, bolstered by the media and certain Hollywood blockbusters.

In reality, just like any industry there is a good and bad in the diamond mining; however, the good that the industry exerts is not only tangible but it is directly measurable.

For example, as Africa is the most prolific source of diamonds, the diamond industry is absolutely fundamental to the economy of many African nations. For some African countries, such as Botswana, not only does diamond mining form a crucial part of the economy, but it is also instrumental in its ethical advancement. The revenue from the diamond mining industry is directly responsible for every child in Botswana being able to receive free education up until the age of 13.

Revenue from diamonds has also been instrumental in the fight against Africa’s most notorious pandemic – the HIV/AIDS virus, and has given African nations essential funds that can be used to provide everything from counselling to testing, education and treatment programs.

It is perhaps ironic that 65% of the worlds most precious stones should have their origins in the world’s poorest and most underdeveloped continent; however, rather than being a cause for alarm this is perhaps an opportunity, and diamonds can be fundamental to Africa’s future ethical and economic development. So, next time you slip on those diamond wedding rings or eternity rings, remember that your ethical jewellery will have helped to support African citizens.

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This entry was posted on Wednesday, October 27th, 2010 at 12:39 pm.

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