The world is smaller and closer than ever before with the news media reporting instantaneously as events occur and with the speed of the internet and social media. The world is continuously connected and informed, but nefarious operations and human rights violations continue unnoticed and largely ignored by society in general. Conflict materials and conflict funding remain prevalent and tarnish the jewelry industry's reputation, particularly with consumers. The jewelry industry must conduct its business in a way that ensures ethical behavior and take on the challenges of corporate social responsibility. Conflict diamonds are a natural resource that contributes to global unrest despite United Nations resolutions and sanctions, international governmental legislations, and non-governmental organizations' efforts to bring to light the continued atrocities occurring daily in the artisanal mining regions. A survey taken in 2015 of the Santa Fe Symposium® attendees revealed some interesting facts and predispositions of how the U.S. jewelry industry feels about conflict diamonds and its role in how these issues are handled on a national corporate level.

Author: Robert Previti