KP Certification Scheme
Although countries are free to join the Kimberley Process, joining implies mandatory implementation of the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS)’s minimum requirements in their national legislation. Participating countries may only trade legally with other participants that have also met the minimum requirements of the scheme. All shipments of rough diamonds must be shipped in sealed, tamper-resistant containers and accompanied by a valid and validated KP certificate guaranteeing that they are conflict-free. In order to be able to certify shipments of rough diamonds as ‘conflict-free' and prevent conflict diamonds from entering the legitimate trade, participating countries must implement adequate export-, import- and internal control mechanisms and commit to transparency and the exchange of relevant statistical data about production, exports and imports.
The Kimberley Process is chaired, on an annually rotating basis, by participating countries. KP participating countries and industry and civil society observers gather twice a year at intersessional and plenary meetings. Implementation of the KPCS by the participating countries is monitored through regular ‘(peer) review visits' and annual reports, as well as by regular exchange and analysis of statistical data.
Complementing the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme’s minimum requirements, the diamond industry - through the World Diamond Council - has established voluntary industry self-regulation applicable to rough diamonds, polished diamonds, and diamond jewelry “from mine to finger”. This is the so-called WDC System of Warranties that requires that a written warranty must accompany all invoices, guaranteeing the diamonds are conflict-free.
The World Diamond Council (WDC) is the professional diamond organization established in Antwerp in July 2000 by the diamond and jewelry industry to address the challenge of conflict diamonds. The WDC represents the worldwide diamond industry in the Kimberley Process and is a key player in the development and implementation of the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme.
More info on www.kimberleyprocess.com
