The stuff of legend: diamonds and development in southern Africa

Abstract

This essay establishes four propositions. First, the diamond industry has been a positive force for development in southern Africa. Second, jewelry, among the most profitable segments of the industry, is a non-essential luxury, and accordingly, consumer concerns over conflict diamonds pose a long-term threat to the industry. Third, key in conflict diamonds is violent political conflict, not diamonds per se. Fourth, the continuing challenges shared by the industry, the NGOs, and public sector are to strengthen the Kimberley Process Certification System (KPCS) to eradicate trade in conflict diamonds and to enhance the related Diamond Development Initiative to regularize artisanal production and bring the diggers into the system.diamonds, resource curse, Kimberley process, South Africa, Botswana, Namibia