KP FAQs

What is the Kimberley Process?

The Kimberley Process is an international certification scheme that regulates trade in rough diamonds. It aims to prevent the flow of conflict diamonds and protect legitimate rough diamond trade. The Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) outlines the rules that govern the trade in rough diamonds.The KPCS has developed a set of minimum requirements that each participant must meet. The KP is not, strictly speaking, an international organisation: it has no permanent offices or permanent staff. It relies on the contributions – under the principle of ‘burden-sharing’ – of participants, supported by industry and civil society observers. Neither can the KP be considered as an international agreement from a legal perspective, as it is implemented through the national legislations of its participants.

Do synthetic diamonds need a KP Certificate?

No, synthetic diamonds do not require a Kimberley Process Certificate; only rough diamonds require a Kimberley Process Certificate.

Do I need a registered UAE company to trade in rough diamonds here?

Yes, to trade in rough diamonds in the UAE you will need to register a company here with attendant trade license related to jewellery, gold, pearls, diamonds, or general trading. However, an individual who wishes to bring rough diamonds into the country can do so only once under his/her name.

What are conflict diamonds?

Conflict diamonds, also known as blood diamonds, are rough diamonds used by rebel movements or their allies to finance armed conflicts aimed at undermining legitimate governments.

How can I be absolutely sure I am not buying a conflict diamond?

You can only be sure by buying jewellery from a reputable, professional retailer. All Diamond Guild members are committed to eliminating trade in conflict diamonds and, as such, have put in place an auditable means by which they can prove all diamonds sold comply with the World Diamond Council Kimberley Process.

What is the process for hand-carry imports?

Hand-carried rough diamond shipments must be submitted together with their original KP certificates to the respective customs authorities on arrival at any UAE port. The passenger carrying the rough diamond shipment will be given a copy of the ‘Passenger Baggage Receipt’ by the customs authority, who will then attach a copy of this receipt to the shipment prior to the transfer of the goods to the UAE KP Office. Upon completion of the routine inspection and verification procedures by the UAE KP Office, the passenger must then submit documents including a copy of their passport, their ticket details and their baggage invoice, along with the original KP certificate and a copy of their import invoice in order to clear the diamond shipment.

If I import rough diamonds set into jewellery do I need a KPCS?

No, once rough diamonds are set into Jewellery they are considered as such.

Can I import powder rough diamonds into the UAE?

Rough diamonds above an mm in size must be certified by Kimberley Process. KPCS is not required for diamonds smaller than an mm.

Can I import a rough diamond into UAE and export it to a GCC country?

No, UAE is the only country to introduce and operate KP compliance in the GCC.

Do I require a Kimberley Process Certificate for semi-polished diamonds?

Yes, semi-polished diamonds fall under the KPCS and require certification.

Do I have to declare all rough diamonds at customs whatever the destination?

Yes, it is mandatory to declare hand carried rough diamonds at customs whatever the destination.

How does the System of Warranties work?

The diamond industry also adopted a System of Warranties to further assure consumers of provinence. A written statement must accompany all sales invoices guaranteeing the diamonds or jewellery are from legitimate sources. Diamond traders and diamond jewellery manufacturers are required to keep records for annual audit.