> Although the KPCS had noble intentions it also was a means of controlling the market.
De Beers used the film Blood Diamond with DiCaprio as a positive marketing tool (they bought advertising with it -- 'De Beers presents...'). It popularized the notion of 'conflict diamonds' and then they calm the fears of their customers with the certification mechanism. More importantly, it creates legal opening for countries to ban the trade in non-certified diamonds.
Are there reliable independent audits of DeBeers conflict-free claims, or are they just lying about it-- another facet of their monopolistic jewel of a business?
Ah, found it: KPCS only covers diamonds traded for weapons, it doesn't cover slave/child labor, environmental abuse, or any other crimes committed during mining for DeBeers diamonds.
De Beers used the film Blood Diamond with DiCaprio as a positive marketing tool (they bought advertising with it -- 'De Beers presents...'). It popularized the notion of 'conflict diamonds' and then they calm the fears of their customers with the certification mechanism. More importantly, it creates legal opening for countries to ban the trade in non-certified diamonds.