What is the primary purpose of the Kimberley Process?

• A. A way for natural diamonds to be certified 'conflict-free' diamonds.
• B. A system to estimate resale value.
• C. A color grading standard.
• D. A chain-of-custody protocol for tracking rare stones.

Answer: (A)

The Kimberley Process is about preventing conflict diamonds from entering the market by ensuring rough diamonds are certified as conflict-free. It functions as an international certification scheme where shipments of rough diamonds crossing borders carry a Kimberley Process Certificate issued by government authorities in participating countries. This system aims to cut off funding for violence linked to diamond mining by proving the origin and ethical status of the diamonds. It isn’t about estimating resale value or color grading, and while tracking and certification are part of the process, its main purpose is to certify that diamonds are not financing conflict.