Ethical & Sustainable Diamonds
Your engagement ring should symbolize love, not contribute to conflict or environmental destruction. Here's your guide to making a responsible choice in Thailand.
Understanding the Issues
The diamond industry has faced criticism for two main issues:
Conflict Diamonds ("Blood Diamonds")
Diamonds mined in war zones and sold to finance armed conflict against governments. The Kimberley Process was established in 2003 to prevent their trade, though it has limitations.
Environmental & Social Impact
Diamond mining can cause deforestation, soil erosion, and ecosystem destruction. Some operations have also been linked to poor labor conditions and displacement of communities.
The Good News
Today, ethical options are more accessible than ever. An estimated 99.8% of diamonds on the market are now conflict-free, and sustainable alternatives like lab diamonds have become mainstream.
Your Ethical Options
Lab-Grown Diamonds
Chemically identical to mined diamonds, created in controlled environments with minimal environmental impact.
Advantages
- + 100% conflict-free
- + 70% less expensive
- + Lower carbon footprint
- + Traceable origin
Considerations
- • No resale value appreciation
- • Some consider them less romantic
- • Growing market saturation
Certified Conflict-Free Mined
Natural diamonds certified through the Kimberley Process or additional third-party verification.
Advantages
- + Natural rarity
- + Traditional appeal
- + Potential value retention
- + Supports legitimate mining
Considerations
- • Higher price
- • Kimberley Process has limitations
- • Environmental impact of mining
Canadian Diamonds
Mined in Canada under strict environmental and labor regulations with full traceability.
Advantages
- + Known origin
- + Strong regulations
- + Excellent quality
- + Indigenous community support
Considerations
- • Premium pricing
- • Limited supply
- • Still involves mining
Recycled/Vintage Diamonds
Pre-owned diamonds reset into new settings, giving new life to existing stones.
Advantages
- + Zero new mining
- + Often excellent value
- + Unique character
- + Environmentally friendly
Considerations
- • Limited selection
- • May lack certification
- • Unknown original source
How to Verify Ethical Sourcing
When shopping for an ethical diamond in Thailand, ask these questions:
1. Request Documentation
Ask for a Kimberley Process certificate and any additional third-party certifications (SCS Global, RJC certification).
2. Ask About Country of Origin
Diamonds from Canada, Botswana, Namibia, and Australia generally have better traceability and ethical standards.
3. Check Retailer Policies
Reputable jewelers have clear sourcing policies on their website. Be wary of those who can't or won't discuss their supply chain.
4. Consider Lab-Grown
For guaranteed conflict-free status with full traceability, lab-grown diamonds eliminate supply chain concerns entirely.
Ethical Shopping in Thailand
Thailand is a major jewelry manufacturing hub, and many reputable Thai jewelers are committed to ethical sourcing. Here's what to know:
- Thai Gem and Jewelry Traders Association (TGJTA) members generally follow ethical guidelines.
- Look for jewelers who can provide full documentation including GIA/IGI certificates with origin information.
- Lab diamonds are increasingly available in Bangkok and offer a straightforward ethical choice.
Our Commitment
GlitzJewelry.com sources all diamonds from certified, conflict-free suppliers. Every lab diamond is traceable to its growing facility, and all natural diamonds come with Kimberley Process certification.
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Every diamond at GlitzJewelry.com is certified conflict-free with full traceability documentation.
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