What is a conflict diamond?
By Jared James · Last updated 21 May 2026
Definition
A conflict diamond, also called a blood diamond, is a diamond mined in a region controlled by armed forces opposed to a legitimate government, and sold to fund military activities or other atrocities. The term gained wide attention in the late 1990s and through the 2006 film Blood Diamond, focusing on West Africa. The Kimberley Process Certification Scheme was established in 2003 to stem the trade, but critics have pointed to ongoing weaknesses in enforcement and definition. Many buyers now choose lab-grown diamonds or ethically certified stones as an alternative.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the Kimberley Process?
- The Kimberley Process is an international certification scheme launched in 2003 requiring member countries to certify that rough diamond exports are free from conflict origins. It has reduced the trade in conflict diamonds, though critics argue its definition is too narrow and enforcement is inconsistent.
- How can I avoid buying a conflict diamond?
- Ask your jeweller for a stone with documented provenance, look for Kimberley Process certified diamonds, or choose lab-grown diamonds, which have no mining supply chain. Buying from reputable retailers who audit their supply chains also significantly reduces the risk.
- Are lab-grown diamonds conflict-free?
- Yes; lab-grown diamonds are created in controlled facilities and have no connection to mining or armed conflict. They are an increasingly popular choice for buyers who want to avoid any uncertainty around provenance.
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