Our Ethical Diamond Choices

For our ethical diamond choices we offer traceable and transparently sourced diamonds from mainly two different sources: Canadian mined and recycled.

The best possible source of diamonds would be from an organized small-scale mining community working under fairtrade standards in a developing country. Unfortunately, this scenario does not exist. Consequently, we offer traceable and transparently sourced diamonds from four different sources: Canadian mined, recycled, lab created, and Namibian mined. In terms of quality, there is no difference between any of these sources. Diamond grading processes are designed to be objective and standardized.

Generally, the diamonds we offer in our gallery, and the small melee, are from recycled sources. On this website, we offer diamonds from Canada. From the perspective of wanting sources that provide a strong grassroots and local economic initiative for an underprivileged community, each of our diamond sourcing options has its upsides and drawbacks.

Diamond mining is not as toxic as precious metal mining. Diamonds are found in kimberlite, an igneous rock formations.

• The Canadian government has strict environmental and labor standards at the Diavik and Ekati mines.
• Canadian diamond companies have Impact Benefit Agreements with First Nation groups.
• Diamonds are cut in Canada.
• Diamonds are etched with the Canadian Mark, assuring traceability from mine to market.
• The Canadian brand has no association with the often corrupt and conflict ridden African supply chain.

• The mines have a huge regional environmental impact in one of the most pristine environments of the world.
• The IBAs with First Nation People and employment opportunities are viewed by some as inadequate.
• The carbon footprint from running mines in the northern tundra is massive.
• Choosing Canadian diamonds bypasses a critical issue: Africa needs a diamond mining economy. Canadian diamond miners make in a day what Africans make in a month.