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Responsible Sourcing

Signet Supports the Diamond Development Initiative

Technical assistance is support that enables a country to better implement the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) in its jurisdiction, such as training on internal controls, data collection, valuation, and communications within the KPCS.

When realized, technical assistance builds capacity and enhances collaboration among member countries, creating a shared responsibility for KPCS effectiveness and improving compliance with KPCS regulations. Signet provided support to the Diamond Development Initiative (DDI) that resulted in just some of the following initiatives:

  1. 1. Data collection, artisanal diamond mining countries: Angola, Brazil, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, DR Congo, Ghana, Guinea, Lesotho, Sierra Leone, Swaziland and Venezuela.
  2. 2. Diamond Valuation Training, with the Antwerp World Diamond Centre (AWDC) for: Guinea, Sierra Leone, Côte d’Ivoire and Liberia.
  3. 3. Review of Annual Reports and Peer Review Visit Reports for technical assistance opportunities: Every year, DDI reviews the annual reports submitted by KP members with a view to identifying possible needs for technical assistance, or particular strengths or resources that could be applied to providing technical assistance to another KP member.
“At Signet we are humbled to be part of people’s most meaningful moments. Providing the opportunity for an education to girls and boys in the DRC is an expression of who we are as a Company.” Virginia C. Drosos, Signet Jewelers Chief Executive Officer
110 students graduated from four mobile schools

Support for Artisanal Miners

Signet supports the development of sourcing of gold and diamonds from artisanal mining sources, such as the Responsible Artisanal Gold Solutions Forum (RAGSF) and the DDI. The DDI aims to reduce the vulnerability of those engaged in the production of artisanally mined diamonds. Poverty, insecurity, violence and environmental damage are characteristics of artisanal miners and their communities.

Through its “Sending Schools to Kids” initiative, supported by Signet, DDI is sending schools to vulnerable communities and taking children from the mine to the classroom. Last year, 110 students graduated, passing their remedial primary education program and passing their state exams. DDI operates four mobile schools with six classrooms, for a total of 121 students.

The DDI and its partners have also developed Maendeleo Diamond Standards, which ensure that artisanal mining operations conform to prescribed health and safety standards, respect for human rights, and environmental sustainability. Signet is committed to helping ensure that diamonds from these projects can be part of Signet’s supply chain in the future.