Fakes are not in Fashion...

I was recently reading a Harpers Bazaar article about “fakes” and how they are not in fashion. While many associate this magazine with the styles of the rich and famous, their passion against "knock offs" goes far beyond that. They are truly interested in stopping child labor, unsafe work conditions, health hazards and unsanitary regulations. This article peaked in interest to review the policies of the Jewelry Industry.

In the mid 90’s the UN collaborated to curb unsafe working conditions and the exportation of conflict diamonds. As a measure to bar smuggled conflict diamonds, the nations agreed to establish minimum acceptable international standards for certification of rough diamonds, which is now named the Kimberly Process. Specifically in the US jewelers abide by the Clean Diamond Trade Act, which broadens the definition of conflict diamonds to include diamonds traded by terrorists and those who use the diamond trade to fund human rights abuses against unarmed citizens.

Contrary to popular belief these policies don’t just protect Africa but they are extended to Russia, Canada, Australia and India. Diamonds are not the only stone that are protected; gemstones from all countries have guidelines and specific rules. From rubies to marble, copper to zircon all imports and exports are regulated for the safety of the workers and to prevent these commodities from becoming a tool of currency for abusers and terrorists.

Here at Bostonian Jewelers we abide by the Kimberly Process as well as the other less publicized guidelines in regards to rubies, emeralds and any other restricted gemstones. We require all of our suppliers to provide an official written warranty that their diamonds come from Kimberly-certified sources and thus are not involved in funding conflicts. Diamonds are meant to be a gift of love and a token of celebration for you an your loved one.

While the jewelry industry has enforced guidelines about diamonds and mining, the fashion industry is unfortunately struggling in getting a similar result. The Kimberly Process is a well known regulation and we can only hope the the fashion industry can soon get the results they are petitioning for. If you would like to view our diamonds or would like more information about the Kimberly Process please go to www.diamondfacts.org or visit our website at www.bostonianjewelers.com