STYLE GUIDE
BY JENNIFER BRUGH
DIAMONDS
with purpose IDC’S INCREDIBLE EXCURSION TO THE ETHICAL DIAMOND MINES OF AFRICA.
F or IDC, our commitment to ensuring that every diamond is ethically sourced reflects a deep-rooted ethos within our company. Last August, IDC’s Vice President of Wholesale Operations, Brian Leclerc and Vice President of Operations & Marketing, Brian Stamey embarked on a transformative journey alongside Grandview Klein Diamond Group and other U.S. jewelers. Their destination? The heart of diamond mining in Africa — Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa. Here, the entire group saw firsthand the intricate mining process and how diamond mining in the region uplifts the communities. “This trip brought to life not only how rare diamonds are but how the process works,” explains Stamey. “It gave me a satisfying feeling knowing the business we’re in is not only helping people find joy and love in those special moments, but it’s also helping the people in countries in Africa to elevate and provide for themselves.” Namibia, where diamonds have become the economic linchpin, has witnessed profound transformations over the years. One of those is the Benguela Gem, operating tirelessly just off the coast as one of the world’s largest marine mining operations, accounting for nearly 70% of the diamonds mined in the area. “Seeing the marine mining operation firsthand and witnessing the meticulous care that is taken to ensure that they’re not disturbing the environment that the diamonds come from or the marine life around it was fascinating,” Stamey recalls.
30 IDC MAGAZINE
Powered by FlippingBook