We recently received a call for help from a holidaymaker who purchased a diamond in Turkey. The Holidaymaker paid over £2,500.00 for his diamond and was promised documentation to prove its authenticity.

The documentation was not provided to him before he returned to the UK, and subsequent calls and letter’s have produced no further contact from the ‘diamond seller. The holidaymaker became concerned and took his diamond to several reputable dealers.

None of the dealers would accept the diamond for sale, and all advised him that he may have inadvertently purchased a ‘blood diamond’ or ‘conflict diamond’.

At this time the stone is worthless and he has lost a great deal of money. When we explained the nature of these diamonds, the holidaymaker was naturally distraught. HolidayTravelWatch could only refer this holidaymaker to the trade bodies of the diamond industry for help, and offer sympathy for his predicament.

‘Blood Diamonds’ or ‘Conflict Diamonds’ are diamonds that do not pass through the recognised authentication processes, and the income from their sale, are used to buy arms and spread misery in countries where conflict exists. Holidaymakers should take great care when tempted to buy diamonds abroad, before you buy, ensure that you see the documentation before you part with any money. Use the links in this section to obtain further advices before you buy.

This link directs you to The United Nations and the background information on this appalling industry, click here for further information.

This link directs you to DiamondFacts and the World Diamond Council, click here for further information.

Tags: Corporate Responsibility, Ethical Travel

This entry was posted on Friday, March 21st, 2008 at 8:38 am and is filed under Ethical Travel, Planning Your Trip, Prepare. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.