Botswana Diamonds
Botswana diamonds do good. The provenance of a diamond is an important factor to consider when purchasing diamond jewellery. Knowing the origin and the history helps make you a conscious consumer by ensuring you support ethical practices.
Diamonds were discovered in Botswana in 1967 a year after the countries Independence, previously Botswana had been a British protectorate. Since they were discovered the nation has gone from being one of the poorest in Africa to one of the most prosperous. Botswana is the second largest diamond producing country in the world and profits from diamonds are poured back into mining communities and the entire nation, with revenues invested in education and healthcare, infrastructure, agriculture and conservation.
In addition to supporting local communities through responsible mining practices, choosing diamonds with a known provenance from Botswana can also support local economic development. The diamond industry is a major contributor to the national economy, and by purchasing diamonds from the country, you can help to directly support local jobs and development.
“For our people every diamond purchase represents food on the table, better living conditions, better healthcare, potable and safe drinking water, and more roads to connect our remote communities.” Festus Mogae, former president of Botswana.
Having lived in Botswana for five years I know the positive impact that diamonds have on the community and country as a whole, so it was an easy choice to feature Botswana diamonds in our jewellery; they are fully traceable, ethically mined and responsibly sourced. The benefits of working with Botswana diamonds extends beyond the conflict free label. Ethical diamonds means no human rights abuses, employees are fairly paid with safe working conditions and environmentally sound practices.
But can natural diamonds really be considered sustainable? While it is true that the mining process can have negative impacts on the environment and local communities, there are also efforts being made to minimise these impacts and promote sustainable practices. Diamond mining companies are working to reduce their carbon footprint, minimise water usage, and protect natural habitats. Botswanamark diamonds are carbon neutral and the mines in Botswana will be carbon neutral by 2030.