When it comes to gems, diamonds stand out. Their sparkle adds a unique and stunning element to any piece of jewelry. However, the fact of the matter is that diamond trading has its roots in funding terrorist activities in war-torn areas, particularly in African countries like Sierra Leone. Since news of this practice has become widespread, there has understandably been a reaction against these practices and a desire for access to alternatives. This is where CVD diamonds come in.
WHAT DOES CVD MEAN?
CVD stands for Colorless Vapor Deposition. This is a process in which diamonds are developed in a lab rather than in natural geological areas. Put simply, a mixture of gas and carbon creates what becomes a synthetic diamond, which mimics natural diamonds in practically every way. Many people cannot even tell the difference between natural diamonds and CVD diamonds grown in a lab. CVD diamonds are chemically identical to those found in a natural formation.
WHAT DOES CONFLICT-FREE MEAN?
“Conflict-free” refers to the development and production of diamonds not tied to financing terrorist agendas, which happens in areas with access to natural diamonds. These diamonds are also known as blood diamonds because of the way that they are used to fund and promote the activities of terrorist organizations. As knowledge of conflict diamonds has increased over the years, so has the demand for diamonds without a dark connection. CVD diamonds offer the best of both worlds: beauty and craftsmanship without sinister associations.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?
There are several reasons why you might want to purchase a CVD conflict-free diamond. The first is the peace of mind knowing that your diamond did not contribute to the illegal and cruel activity that characterizes blood diamond mining efforts. For many, this is the most important reason to choose CVD diamonds over others. Since CVD diamonds are grown in a lab, there are no associations with unethical funding practices in mining and transportation.
Secondly, CVD diamonds are more affordable than conflict diamonds. Sometimes the price difference is negligible, but overall CVD diamonds are a more economical option.
Finally, CVD diamonds offer the same brilliance, sparkle, and beauty as natural diamonds. Despite being grown in a lab, there is nothing artificial or synthetic about CVD diamonds, and they are just as valuable and sought after as their natural counterparts.
HOW WE VERIFY CONFLICT FREE DIAMONDS
The standard for verifying conflict-free diamonds in the jewelry industry is the Kimberley Process. The KP aims to “remove conflict diamonds from the global supply chain”. Diamonds are assessed and verified as conflict-free before entering into the retail market, giving both customers and jewelers peace of mind.
HOURS
Tuesday - Thursday 10:00am - 5:30pm
Friday 10:00am - 5:00pm
Saturday 10:00am - 3:00pm