Israeli diamond trader banned for 'blood diamond' link

BBC News, 29 December 2010

An Israeli diamond trader has been expelled from the Israel Diamond Exchange after he was suspected of smuggling "blood diamonds" into Israel.

The Kimberley Process certifies that diamonds
are "conflict free"

David Vardi was arrested in connection with a consignment of Zimbabwean stones, whose exports are banned under the Kimberley Process (KP).

This was set up in 2002 after the diamond trade was accused of fuelling war in Africa.

KP rules include certifying the origins of diamonds - 75 countries abide by it.

Israel is the current chairman of the Kimberley Process.

"Blood diamonds" are rough diamonds used by rebel groups or their allies to finance wars and conflicts.