The link between diamonds and conflict is an accident of geology. West African diamonds appear where rivers have loosened them from inaccessible primary rock deposits, and dumped them in gravelly riverbeds where local people can easily pick them out. The free-for-all makes it almost impossible to control and tax mining operations. With no significant controls in place, rebel fighters can collect a constant stream of diamonds to trade for arms.
In Canada, South Africa, Australia, Russia and Botswana, diamond mines are a source of legitimate wealth and jobs rather than conflict. These are all countries where most diamonds are found…
