The allure of gemstones has captivated humanity for centuries. While lab-grown
stones are popularly being marketed as a more “sustainable” choice, this discussion delves into the why naturally mined gemstones can be more sustainable and highlights the sustainable commitment of Layaz.

The Challenge of Sustainability in Gem Mining

Gem mining, like any extractive industry, can have a substantial environmental and social impact.
Issues such as harmful working conditions have plagued the industry for years. However, the tide is turning, with a growing number of jewellers committed to ethical and sustainable practices.

What Makes a Gemstone Sustainable?

A sustainable gemstone is one that is mined and processed with minimal harm to the environment and people. It involves:

• Ethical Sourcing: Ensuring gemstones come from conflict-free zones and that miners receive fair wages and work in safe conditions. Following standards like Fairtrade and the United Nations Kimberley Process are crucial.
• Environmental Responsibility: Implementing practices that minimize land disturbance, and waste generation. This includes responsible waste management and habitat restoration.
• Community Development: Supporting local communities through job creation, education, and healthcare initiatives.
• Traceability: Knowing the gemstone's journey from mine to market, ensuring transparency and accountability.
  
   

Introducing the United Nations Kimberly Process

The United Nations initiated the Kimberley Process Scheme, a global system designed to prevent "conflict diamonds" from entering the legal diamond pipeline.

What are Conflict Diamonds?

Conflict diamonds, also known as blood diamonds, are diamonds mined in war zones and sold to fund armed groups and rebel movements. These diamonds fuel violence, human rights abuses, and instability.

How Does the Kimberley Process Work?

The Kimberley Process is a collaborative effort between governments, the diamond industry, and civil society organizations. It sets out strict standards for the trade of rough diamonds.

• Chain of Warranties: Each shipment of rough diamonds must be accompanied by a Kimberley Process Certificate, verifying that the diamonds originated from a participating country and were not used to fund conflict.
• Participant Countries: To participate, countries must have systems in place to control the trade in rough diamonds.
• Civil Society Participation: The process includes representatives from civil society to ensure transparency and accountability.

As of 2024 there are over 50 member countries participating in the Kimberly Process, which has resulted to disrupt 99.8% of the trade in conflict diamonds around the world. 

Layaz sources its gemstones from Sri Lanka, famously dubbed as the "island of gems" it is a participant country of the United Nations Kimberly Process.

Jewellers who follow the Kimberly Process can significantly enhance the economic and social well-being of communities. On the contrary, given that nearly 60% of lab-grown stones are produced in China, their production might not have the same positive effect on these communities.

1) Economic Benefits

• Job Creation: The mining industry provides employment opportunities for thousands of people, boosting local economies. While the Kimberly Process doesn't directly create jobs, it ensures a stable and legal trade, which supports the industry and its associated employment.
• Revenue Generation: Legal trade generates revenue for governments and local communities, which can be invested in essential services like education, healthcare, and infrastructure. This indirectly improves the livelihoods of local communities.
• Foreign Investment: Mining ethical gemstones attracts foreign investment into sector, leading to economic growth and development in the regions.
  
  

2) Improved Working Conditions

• Focus on Legality: By regulating the trade, the Kimberly process discourages illegal mining operations, which often involve hazardous working conditions and exploitation of workers.
• Indirect Impact on Standards: The emphasis on legality can indirectly encourage mining companies to adopt better labor practices to comply with national and international standards.
• Potential for Positive Change: A stable and legal industry can create a conducive environment for unions and workers' rights organizations to advocate for improved working conditions.
  
  

3) Community Development

• Infrastructure Improvement: The revenue generated from legal trade can be used to develop essential infrastructure, such as roads, schools, and hospitals, benefiting local communities.
• Support for Education: Investments in education can help break the cycle of poverty and create opportunities for future generations.
• Healthcare Access: Improved healthcare facilities can enhance the overall well-being of communities.

Challenges and Opportunities

While the Kimberley Process has contributed to positive outcomes, challenges remain. Not all countries have effectively implemented the Kimberly Process, and illegal mining persists in some regions.

Sustainable Gemstone Alternatives to Diamonds

Unlike diamonds, there are several gemstones which are known for their potential to be sourced sustainably:

• Sapphires: Found in various colours, sapphires can be sourced from responsible mines that prioritize environmental protection and worker welfare.
• Rubies: Like sapphires, rubies can be sourced ethically, with a focus on fair labour practices and minimal environmental impact.
• Emeralds: While emerald mining can be challenging due to the delicate nature of the stone, there are responsible sources that prioritize sustainability.

 

We at Layaz provide a wide selection range of natural gemstones. Click here to explore our selection of gemstones.