The allure of diamonds has historically been based on beauty, authenticity, and rarity. The value, beauty, and unique hardness developed over billions of years in nature have been associated with eternity and perfection. Diamonds are unrivaled symbols of love and wealth, cherished and passed down as heritage. Diamonds are undoubtedly the most durable gemstones, which is why they often sparkle in engagement and wedding rings, forming a strong emotional bond and a crown for the love story.
Disposable culture is avoided by acquiring less but of high quality. The foundation of responsible action is the durability, adaptability, and recyclability of the jewelry even after hundreds of years. The value of materials used in fine jewelry is based on rarity. The value of jewelry is also based on precise, tradition-respecting craftsmanship and timeless design. A valuable piece of jewelry can be considered an investment that simultaneously supports the continuation of craftsmanship traditions and domestic work.
Synthetic diamonds
The production of synthetic diamonds originally began for the tool industry in the 1950s. Since then, the technology has evolved, and interest in perfectly pure, but affordable diamonds has also emerged in jewelry use. Generally, they are referred to as laboratory diamonds, but a more precise term would be factory-made, synthetic diamond. Factories are being built around the world driven by high demand, mainly in China and India, where the energy used for diamond production is primarily generated from coal. Producing one carat of uncut synthetic diamond requires an average of about 500 kilowatt-hours of electricity, depending on the production method. So far, only a small number of factories operate on renewable energy. Based on current knowledge, it cannot be generally stated that synthetic diamonds are more environmentally friendly than natural diamonds. There are differences in both factories and mines, so the better the origin or production method of the raw stone is known, the better one can track the environmental impact and carbon footprint of the diamond.
Currently, vast amounts of synthetic diamonds are being produced, leading to a dramatic decrease in their value. For example, a 1.5-carat synthetic diamond has seen its value drop by 83% in less than ten years and will continue to decrease as production increases.
On the ethics, ecology, and social responsibility of natural diamonds
Diamonds are a significant livelihood for many African countries, employing and strengthening the economic position of the nation. Botswana, currently one of the largest producers of natural diamonds, has managed to grow its GDP and thus develop the well-being of its country thanks to its natural resources. Companies dominating the natural diamond market are continuously developing their practices to be more responsible—both ecologically and ethically. The actors from whom the companies committed to the Responsible Natural Diamonds program obtain their natural diamonds are constantly working to minimize their carbon footprint, develop the infrastructure of producing countries, and enhance the well-being of workers.
International organizations, such as the Responsible Jewelry Council, monitor the diamond trade and only accept operators that meet strict requirements as members. Today, it is entirely possible to acquire conflict-free and ethical natural diamonds when obtaining them from a trustworthy and responsible professional in the jewelry industry.
Terminology and Reliability
The jewelry industry is based on trust. Synthetic gemstones must be distinguished from natural stones, which is why the terms should not be commercial, but gemological. Marketing should be based on accuracy, which is unfortunately often forgotten in the marketing of synthetic gemstones when discussing ecological laboratory diamonds. Completely ecological diamonds do not exist, but because ecological and ethical issues are perceived as important, the industry is evolving rapidly. The industry needs discussions and commitments that can influence both as a jewelry maker and a consumer.
The responsible natural diamonds program
The seven promises below were created to remind of important matters as part of business operations. The signatories hope that the entire jewelry industry will consider the promises and develop their operations accordingly.
- Promote transparency in diamond jewelry production.
- Monitor industry developments and require comprehensive information about the origin of gemstones with every purchase.
- Share accurate diamond information with customers and colleagues and discuss industry-related topics honestly, reliably, and multidimensionally.
- Use trustworthy, fact-based information in the marketing of products.
- Listen to and educate customers and young people interested in the industry.
- Actively update their knowledge.
- Create a corporate responsibility plan by 2026.
Based on the promise, companies stand behind the jewelry they produce in terms of design, craftsmanship, and the materials used in the jewelry.
The Responsible Natural Diamonds program has been signed by:
• Oy Atelier Torbjörn Tillander Ab
Text: Jaana / Kultaseppä Kulmala
Pictures: Atelier Torbjörn Tillander & Ocean diamonds