Kimberley Process vs. Beyond Conflict Free™: What's the Difference?

When shopping for ethically sourced diamonds, you’ll often see terms like "conflict-free" or "Beyond Conflict Free™." But what do these really mean—and how do they differ?

Let’s break down the two most common diamond sourcing standards: the Kimberley Process and Beyond Conflict Free™.

What Is the Kimberley Process?

The Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) was established in 2003 by the UN, governments, and industry leaders to stop the trade of “blood diamonds”—gems used to fund armed conflict, particularly in war-torn African nations.

Pros:

• Created international oversight for diamond trade

• Requires participating countries to certify rough diamonds as conflict-free

Limitations:

• Only addresses diamonds linked to rebellion or war—not other human rights abuses

• Does not regulate labor conditions, environmental damage, or exploitation

• Lacks strict enforcement and has been criticized for loopholes and weak governance

What Is Beyond Conflict Free™?

Brilliant Earth introduced the Beyond Conflict Free™ label to raise the bar for ethical sourcing. Their diamonds go beyond the Kimberley Process by ensuring they are:

• Not only free of ties to war or rebel conflict

• Mined without human rights abuses

• Not contributing to environmental destruction

• Sourced from mines with fair labor practices

• Often blockchain-traced for full supply chain transparency

Why It Matters

While the Kimberley Process was a critical first step, it hasn’t kept up with today’s ethical and environmental standards. Beyond Conflict Free™ reflects growing consumer demand for transparency, fair labor, and sustainability—not just avoiding conflict.

If you’re looking for a truly ethical diamond, it’s worth seeking out options that go beyond the basics—because being conflict-free isn't always enough.