Conflict diamonds are diamonds that are sold to fund conflicts in war-torn areas. Because the diamonds fund conflict they are often called conflict diamonds or blood diamonds.

Conflict diamonds began to catch the world's attention during the brutal battles in the Sierra Leone in the late 1990's. At that time it was said that conflict diamonds comprised about 4% of the world's supply. Conflict diamonds are thought to make up less than 1% of all diamonds sold today. There are three countries that are said to make up the 1%, the Republic of Congo, Liberia, and Ivory Coast.

The battle against conflict diamonds has been long, and it's a battle we are winning. In July of 2000, the global diamond industry made it clear that there was a zero tolerance towards dealing in conflict diamonds. The diamond industry worked closely with the United Nations, governments, and non-governmental agencies (ngo's) in the creation of the Kimberly Process Certification System. The Kimberly Process certifies that 99% of all diamonds are conflict free, but the industry still believes that even 1% is too much. The diamond industry continues to work with the United Nations and strengthen the Kimberly System and it's warranties.

Read further for some great facts about all the good that diamonds supply:

FACT: In July 2000, the world diamond industry announced a zero tolerance policy towards conflict diamonds and continues to drive this policy.

FACT: An estimated 5 million people have access to appropriate healthcare thanks to revenues from diamonds.

FACT: Conflict diamonds have been reduced from 4% to considerably less than 1% since the implementation of the Kimberly Process in 2003.

FACT: An estimated 10 million people globally are directly or indirectly supported by the diamond industry.

FACT: The diamond mining industry contributes over 40% of Namibia's annual export earnings.

FACT: Diamond revenues make it possible for every child in Botswana to receive a free education up until the age of 13.

FACT: Sierra Leone is now at peace and is exporting about $142 million in diamonds per year.

FACT: African countries supply $8.4 billion in diamonds a year.

FACT: More than 99% of all diamonds are from conflict free sources.

FACT: Revenue from diamonds is instrumental in the HIV/AIDS pandemic.

FACT: African countries supply 65% of the world's diamonds today.

FACT: there are 69 countries and the legitimate diamond industry are legally bound to eradicating conflict diamonds.

FACT: The diamond industry has introduced program to help ensure retailers and consumers that their diamonds are from a conflict free source.

FACT: Diamonds account for about 33% of Botswana's gross Domestic Product. Since diamonds were first discovered in Botswana, their GDP has averaged a 7% annual increase.

FACT: Major world leaders including Nelson Mandela have noted the great importance of diamonds to the African people.

FACT: “Every diamond not purchased is a missed chance for Africa. A missed opportunity to send a child to school, build more clinics and hospitals, and continue the fight against HIV/AIDS,” stated Erkki Nghimtina the Namibian Minister of Mines and Energy.

FACT: Like any product bought from a reputable source, the community around the source grows, improves, and thrives. Legitimate diamonds bring money, education and healthcare to legitimate communites.