Diamond Hotspot: Sierra Leone
Are you a diamond expert? Well, you might like to think that you are, but it is really tough to become one. One way that you can start is by learning where all the diamond hotspots are around the world. The following is a little bit of information about one diamond hotspot in particular, and that is Sierra Leone. Many diamonds come out of Sierra Leone, and we will teach you why. The more you know about where diamonds come from the better you will be at picking out the perfect gems for you or your loved ones. Without further ado, the following is about Sierra Leone.
Where is Sierra Leone Located?
Sierra Leone is a country that is located on the west side of Africa. Being rich in diamonds has been both a blessing and a curse to this country, however. Diamonds have been the source of much bloodshed within the country, and it has been responsible for a civil war. The country is very poor, so when people got a chance to make it rich there were some people who jumped at the chance no matter the cost to others around them. This is also when you have to watch out for the blood diamonds, and the bad trading business.
Sierra Leone Diamond History
Diamonds were first discovered in Sierra Leone in the 1930s. Shortly after is when the rebel armies started to fight over the diamonds. This is when the previously mentioned civil war took place over the gems. There was much bloodshed, and there seemed to be no end in sight. Finally, the violence was halted by 17,000 foreign troops, who disarmed the rebel armies. This gave a new chance to the country and this booming industry. The country of Sierra Leone is now looking for ways to maintain peace, yet take advantage of these gems for the economy.
The Quality of the Gems
The gems that come from Sierra Leone are some of the best quality of diamonds in the entire world. It is unfortunate though because of the fighting they have not truly been able to control this industry and take full advantage. In order to make this industry grow for them they need some wise foreign investment and some government help as well. The sting of the blood diamond era still reigns, and that is something that might need to pass for the diamond industry to come back around full swing within the country of Sierra Leone.
