The term blood diamonds is one we commonly here today in the news or even pop culture. The phrase can have many different meaning and like most terms that become apart of everyday language its origins can be somewhat misunderstood. What are blood diamonds? The answer to that question is the goal of this article.

Blood diamonds are commonly referred to as “conflict diamonds” which accurately describes the origins of the precious gem. In short a blood diamond is a diamond that is mined is some kind of war zone. These diamonds are used by these war-torn areas as a means to raise money for their fighting efforts. Hence where the “blood” in blood diamonds originates from. Diamonds are very valuable and desired so they can be turned into cash very quick. This is why they are used in areas where there is very little economic stability and the need to raise cash is prevalent because of the ongoing war.

Whether by current events or pop culture most people today have heard of the term blood diamonds. These are diamonds that are produced in war-torn areas often by little kids forced to do this dangerous kind of work. The diamond mining process often involves these kids being injured, which is where the diamonds get their infamous name along with the fact that they are produced in areas affected by violence.

Blood diamonds in Africa are the most common types talked about. In fact, most of us are probably familiar with the Kanye West hit song “Diamonds from Sierra Leone.” This song highlights in an innovative rap form blood diamonds in Africa and specifically in the city of Sierra Leone which a notable conflict in the 1990’s where blood diamonds were a major factor. There is even a movie starring Leonardo DiCaprio called “Blood Diamonds” that through film goes into depth on the epidemic that was blood diamonds in Africa.

The Cut is the factor that determines the brilliance of a diamond. A classic round brilliant cut diamond has 58 facets : 33 on the top, 24 on the bottom, and the culet (1 point at the bottom). Each of the diamond's facets must be placed in exact geometric relation to one another when the stone is being cut. Quality diamonds must be properly cut and not "spread", which means that the proper proportions are compromised to make the diamond weigh more.