How to Know Where Your Diamond Comes From

On Friday, President Joe Biden announced that the United States government would move to ban the import of Russian diamonds, in response to that country’s invasion of Ukraine.

At Hingham Jewelers, we’re carefully monitoring the tragic events unfolding in Ukraine, and the response to the conflict. We are regularly sourcing precious materials from around the world, including diamonds. Given this week’s developments, we felt it was important to share more about where our diamonds come from.

Source of Hingham Jewelers Diamonds

The natural diamonds found in our showroom come from around the world, but the majority of our diamond selection comes from Africa.

From 1870-2005, according to the Gemological Institute of America, South Africa was the top diamond producer by value. By carat weight, it was the 4th largest producer.

Nearby Botswana was the second larger producer by value, and the 5th largest producer by carat weight.

In more recent years, Canada, Russia, and Australia have also been significant diamond producing nations.

Knowing the Origin of Your Diamond

Many consumers know of the Gemological Institute of America, or GIA. This non-profit organization provides unbiased diamond grading and certification. Many of the diamonds we sell, particularly for engagement rings, are certified to ensure consumers know exactly what they are purchasing.

In addition to a standard diamond certification, some stones also include an Origin Report. This verifies exactly where a natural diamond comes from.

That analysis needs to be done while the diamond is rough, meaning soon after it comes out of a mine, and before the stone is polished.

We find that many clients who are particularly focused on origin gravitate towards diamonds produced in Canada.

Russia’s Role in the Diamond Industry

According to the U.S. Treasury, Russia produces nearly a third of the world’s diamonds. Shutting off that source will likely impact the price of diamonds from other places, as well.

Diamonds are a commodity, just like oil and gold. The extent to which prices will be impacted remains to be seen, but diamond prices have already been spiking over the last several weeks, even before Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

How We Can Help

Shopping for a diamond can be daunting. It’s a major purchase, with lots of nuance. We are here to help you find the perfect diamond. Whether that’s a stone to fit a certain budget, a stone of a certain quality, or a gem from a particular part of the world, our specialists will guide you through the selection process.

Make an appointment now to meet with one of our diamond specialists.