DOING SOME DIGGING (October 17, 2002)

Digging through the newsy bits that cross our desk, we were delighted to find information about Canada's commitment to stamping out the trade in "blood" diamonds (see item below). Proceeds from the sale of these stones have financed rebellions and social unrest in several African countries. There is no reason for diamond lovers' money to find its way into supporting civil war anywhere on the globe. Canada already supplies 6% of the world's diamonds by value from a single mine, Ekati. When the Diavik mine reaches production next April, that percentage will rise. There are many other countries that also enjoy stability and diamond production.

Knowing that some diamonds have financed civil war won't make me toss out my favourite ring. But it does reinforce my commitment to buy Canadian stones. Where's that Christmas list?