As our members prepare for the bustling holiday buying season, it’s important to reflect on the broader story behind the diamonds in your stores. For our online virtual conference, Confluence, Grant Mobley, Jewelry and Watch Editor for the Natural Diamond Council, gave an informative and important presentation, “Rewriting the Diamond Narrative.” Filled with facts and statistics, Mobley’s presentation shed light on the significant and positive impacts of the natural diamond industry, from supporting communities to safeguarding the environment.
Here are some key takeaways. We encourage you to read this and use the information in your sales presentations.
Economic Support and Community Development
The diamond industry directly supports 10 million people worldwide, and remarkably, 80% of the value generated by diamond mining remains in the local communities. This wealth translates into a host of long-term benefits, ensuring that even after mines close, the positive effects persist. In fact, just among the members of the Natural Diamond Council (NDC), $6.8 billion is invested annually in services for local communities, fostering growth in small businesses and local sourcing.
Botswana serves as a shining example of how diamonds can transform a nation. Before diamonds were discovered in 1967, Botswana had only seven kilometers of paved roads; today, it boasts over 7,000 kilometers. The country has seen poverty cut in half and now enjoys over 300 schools, compared to just three before the diamond boom. Diamonds make up 40% of Botswana’s GDP and 90% of its exports. This success has catapulted Botswana to the highest GDP per capita in continental Africa, with a stable government and middle-income status.
The diamond industry also has strengthened community education. Every child in Botswana can access free primary and secondary education, a direct benefit of the country’s natural resources.
Safety and Environmental Stewardship
Diamond mining prioritizes safety above all. Mobley highlighted that the safety measures in place—such as three points of contact and mandatory safety gear—mean that working in a diamond mine is statistically safer than working in retail in America. With only one incident per million hours worked, these mines are among the safest workplaces globally.
On the environmental front, diamond mining companies are setting new standards for sustainability. For every hectare of land used in mining, four hectares are protected. No chemicals are used in the process, and 83% of the water used in diamond recovery is recycled. The carbon footprint to mine a one-carat polished diamond is relatively low—equal to the carbon emissions of producing three iPhones or one MacBook.
Efforts to achieve carbon neutrality are also underway. Scientists are exploring how to use kimberlite, the rock that hosts diamonds, to absorb carbon from the atmosphere. The first carbon-neutral mine could be a reality within five to eight years. De Beers, one of the leading diamond mining companies, has already made great strides in conservation with their 200,000-hectare Diamond Route, a protected area across South Africa that is the size of New York City and Los Angeles combined.
Empowering Women and Future Generations
One of the lesser-known impacts of diamond mining is its role in empowering women. Thanks to the economic benefits of diamonds, Botswana now boasts the highest number of women-owned businesses worldwide. This is a direct result of the financial opportunities created by the diamond industry, which has not only supported infrastructure but also entrepreneurial growth.
Preparing for the Holiday Season
For those of us in the jewelry industry, being knowledgeable about the history and impact of natural diamonds is critical. A study shared in Mobley’s presentation showed that customer intent to purchase increased by 80% when sales professionals were well-informed about diamond history, lore, and facts. To help prepare retailers, the NDC has compiled a series of 20 short videos (2-3 minutes each) designed for role-playing common diamond FAQs from customers.
The American Gem Society encourages its members to leverage these insights and share the incredible story of diamonds with our customers. Not only do these gems represent beauty and luxury, but they also tell a compelling story of economic empowerment, safety, and sustainability.
For further information, explore the “Beyond the Cs” feature on the NDC website, which offers more facts and details about the diamond industry. Additionally, the NDC’s new global diamond campaign provides valuable materials for retailers, ensuring they are equipped with the latest tools to engage and inspire our customers.
By sharing the true narrative of natural diamonds, we not only elevate the value of what we sell but also connect customers to the extraordinary impact these gems have worldwide.
