What is the Kimberley Process and how does Shane Co. support it?
The Kimberley Process is a vital step toward impeding the trade of conflict diamonds. Conflict diamonds, also known as “blood” diamonds, are stones sold to finance violent rebel movements. Conflict diamonds have been linked to atrocities in Angola, Sierra Leone and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

In order to put an end to financing violence, and to set consumers’ minds at ease about funding human rights violations, South African diamond producing states met in Kimberley, South Africa in May of 2000 to devise a solution.

With the support of the United Nations, the diamond industry, world governments and NGOs went to work. Nearly two years of negotiations ultimately produced the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS). The scheme outlines strict standards for rough diamond trade to guard against conflict diamond trafficking.

The Kimberley Process is made up of 43 states and regional economic integration organizations. Together, these participants account for approximately 99.8% of the global production of rough diamonds. The process has been very effective and continues to evolve. Annual meetings and open communication between participants are bringing the world increasingly closer to eradicating conflict diamond trading across the globe.

Information in the paragraphs above is adapted from the following source: Kimberley Process Web Site. 31 Mar 2005 http://www.kimberleyprocess.com

Shane Co.’s Policy
Shane Co. is dedicated to supporting the Kimberley Process and to ensuring that none of the diamonds we buy are conflict diamonds. Financing violence is unacceptable to our business and we take this issue very seriously. Purchasing stones directly from cutters allows us to be extremely cautious and selective with our sources. We only buy from sources that adhere to the same uncompromising philosophy. Due to our diligence in doing business only with vendors who comply with the KPCS and the Voluntary System of warranties, we can assure you that we do not knowingly sell conflict diamonds.