Established to promote responsible practices in the artisanal and small-scale diamond mining sector, GemFair has become a vital force in formalizing this often-overlooked industry and fostering sustainable growth.
Over the past five years, GemFair has grown substantially, expanding its footprint from an initial 14 mine sites to over 400 active locations today. The program now provides employment for more than 6,000 individuals in artisanal mining communities. With a 77% rise in diamond purchases last year and a 68% increase so far in 2024, the initiative is clearly gaining momentum.
Central to GemFair’s success is its use of De Beers’ Tracr blockchain platform, which tracks the provenance of diamonds from mine to market. More than 90% of the diamonds acquired by GemFair are logged on Tracr, offering a high level of transparency and ensuring that consumers can trace the origins of their diamonds.
Recognizing the importance of artisanal mining—which accounts for roughly 10% of the global diamond supply—De Beers has emphasized the need for fair pricing, education, and responsible sourcing within this sector. Through GemFair, miners receive comprehensive training and access to resources that allow them to adopt environmentally responsible practices while improving their economic prospects.
Originally launched in Sierra Leone, GemFair has since expanded into other regions where artisanal mining is prevalent. In addition to supporting responsible sourcing, the program is actively involved in reclaiming abandoned mine sites, a step towards environmental restoration and creating new economic opportunities for local communities.
Al Cook, CEO of De Beers Group, highlighted the program’s broader impact: “De Beers has a unique role in shaping the future of artisanal mining by improving standards and transparency. I’m incredibly proud of GemFair’s progress and its potential to reshape how consumers view artisanal diamonds while positively impacting livelihoods across Africa.”
Feriel Zerouki, Senior Vice President of Provenance, Ethics & Industry Relations at De Beers, also expressed enthusiasm about GemFair’s trajectory: “When we founded GemFair, our aim was to formalize the artisanal mining sector and promote responsible sourcing. I’m excited for the future as we continue to connect consumers with these ethically sourced diamonds, each carrying a story of transformation.”
As GemFair continues to evolve, it remains a beacon of hope for the artisanal diamond sector, providing a path toward responsible mining, improved livelihoods, and environmental sustainability.
