Loose diamonds are both the most magical and versatile of Nature’s creations, and have fascinated mankind for over four thousand years. Today, an estimated 10 million people globally are directly or indirectly supported by the diamond industry, many in developing economies such as Botswana, Zimbabwe and India. An estimated 5 million people globally have access to appropriate healthcare thanks to revenues from diamonds.

In some countries, the diamond mining industry is the largest employer after the government. In spite of the contribution diamonds continue to make to the wellbeing of millions, their high value also makes them vulnerable to theft and abuse. This was highlighted in the 1990s when rebel organizations in Angola, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Sierra Leone expropriated diamonds and used the revenues to perpetrate civil war and carry out atrocities against innocent civilians. Having been made aware of the urgency to act by two non-governmental organizations, (Global Witness and Partnership Africa Canada), the diamond industry acted swiftly to co-operate with NGOs, governments and the United Nations. It established the World Diamond Council, representing the entire industry from mining to retail. The World Diamond Council contributed significantly to the development of the UN mandated Kimberley Process Certification Scheme, which ensures that today more than 99 percent of diamonds are from conflict-free sources. There are now 74 governments that are members of the Kimberley Process.

Diamond companies are talking about more than just carats and colors these days. As consumers demand more added value than ever, the industry is drawing attention to its commitment to improving the lives of the people who create diamonds. The growing awareness of their broader corporate social responsibility means this is increasingly becoming a factor when people are choosing their stones.

One American jeweler determined to address Africa’s continued suffering has introduced a conflict-free diamond pendant. Debi Wexler, CEO of one of the largest online diamond retailers, Whiteflash.com, is dedicating all proceeds from her $4,400 conflict-free Diamonds of Africa diamond pendant to supporting children who have suffered under blood diamond conflicts and to creating awareness to combat illicit diamond trade.

 “Africa is earth’s most vivid mosaic of cultural and natural beauty. But for all her richness and life, this beautiful portrait is stained where unrest brings hunger and suffering to her children,” says Wexler, who holds these issues close to her heart.

“Whiteflash.com has some of the finest ethically produced designer bridal jewelry available,” said Debi Wexler, president of Whiteflash.com and conflict free diamond activist. “The site offers the conscious consumer a means to connect directly to diamond beneficiation projects, such as Whiteflash’s Dreams of Africa collection in which 100% of proceeds go to help those children who have suffered under blood diamond conflicts.”

 “While other companies offer commercially produced ‘green rings’ and conflict free jewellery, what makes us different is that 100% of our profits go to those who really need out help,” said Debi.

Though dramatically reduced in recent years, hot spots of conflict and suffering remain in Africa. Whiteflash initiated the Dreams of Africa program as a way for shoppers to be proactive. You can visit the website at www.dreamsofafrica.org.

Posted via email from Whiteflash Diamonds posterous

Dear Whiteflash Sales Team,

It is such a pleasure to do business with you - I guarantee many more purchases with you! I will certainly let my friends know, I have already told two! I really liked the packaging and felt very special when it was received, it might even be hard to part with it and give it to her :)

As a discerning online consumer I am often skeptical of expensive products that cannot be seen nor experienced. After considerable research and countless hours reading expert and everyday opinions, I determined only one contender - WhiteFlash. While many companies offer a wide range of loose diamonds, there was only one clear choice - WhiteFlash. I dealt extensively with Bob Hoskins, a Master Gemologist, supremely knowledgeable and extremely patient. WhiteFlash offers superior service since they do not drop-ship, rather they hold all products on site. This means they can inspect each item, make recommendations, walk you through and describe them in great detail. They are very accommodating and were able to send numerous images in different lighting to satisfy my needs. I highly recommend WhiteFlash. Don’t forget to ask for Bob!

Michael – Australia

Posted via email from Whiteflash Diamonds posterous

Win big for yourself or the very special mama in your life

We’re celebrating the launch of Recycled Tyke and Mother’s Day 2010 by giving away $300 in jewelry to one lucky winner!

Whiteflash.com has an amazing selection of some of the most beautiful and affordable jewelry on the market. In fact, each of the images above shows a Whiteflash piece that costs $300 or less! Our lucky giveaway winner will choose from classic diamond studs, beautiful pearl and diamond earrings, one of several beautiful diamond pendants, or put the $300 gift card towards a bigger indulgence, like an anniversary ring or an armful of stylish diamond bangles (those are my personal fave!)

It’s easy and free to enter:

1. Stop by Whiteflash.com, check out their great selection of affordable diamond jewelry, and tell us what you love and how you’d spend your $300 prize in the comments below to be entered to win. One comment/entry per person.

2. You must be a Recycled Tyke member to win. If you’re not already a member, sign up now. It’s free and takes less than one minute.

3. We’ll pick and notify a winner at random on May 4th, 2010. (The winner will be chosen at random and is not determined by the content of their comments.)

Good luck, and Happy (Early) Mother’s Day from Whiteflash.com and Recycled Tyke!

Posted via email from Whiteflash Diamonds posterous