The Responsible Jewellery Council issued a statement to its members this week advocating continued caution in dealing with diamonds illegally smuggled out of the Marange field in Zimbabwe.

The council reminded its members that no one should be dealing in recently exported Marange diamonds and members should demonstrate due diligence as they continue to fully comply with the KPCS and World Diamond Council System of Warranties. Members were also advised to exercise extreme caution when buying rough diamonds on the market to ensure that they do not originate from Marange, despite the current KPCS suspension. Once the KP Monitor is in place in Zimbabwe, all exports from Marange must bear the signature of the Monitor on the KP Certificate

The council stated that it will ensure that auditors place an extra level of vigilance on the potential for non-conformances in this area. Auditors will be kept updated on the situation via training delivered by the RJC and alerts on relevant developments. The RJC also stated that it strongly supported local law enforcement’s efforts to combat the issue.

JCK