Sourcing

How ALROSA's Diamonds Do Good

Brought to you by

How ALROSA's Diamonds Do Good

“Greatness Is Made Under Pressure:” these are the best words to describe modern women.

btyb-alrosa-topimage-111720_copy.jpg

Brought To You By ALROSA



Charity is a new norm

According to Giving USA, last year was one of the most profound in terms of charity— American individuals and organizations donated more than $449.64 billion to diverse funds and nonprofits. Since 2017, the donation rates had been permanently growing and last year they rose 4.2% over the results of 2018. Meanwhile economic growth remains the main driver of giving more, common sense of responsibility and generosity which has recently intensified in American society also brings positive impact. Giving to humanities funds and environmental organizations show double-digit growth, indicating the nation’s aim to contribute in social and ecological improvements.

Alongside charity popularization, customers pay more attention to the brands’ social mindfulness as well as their approach of doing good. These days it is clear that producing qualified goods is not enough to win a customer’s favor. Millennials and Gen Z have turned their heads to the ethical aspects and brands that match their personal values — for young generations social responsibility and sustainability is not just a publicity stunt.

According to the Hotwire survey, 47% of internet users are willing to change a favorite product or service, if it violates their personal values. The study conducted by the International Trademark Association conducted by the International Trademark Association showed that 89% Gen Z cohorts believe that brands should do good in the world. Protecting environment and resolving social issues are the most anticipated approaches. Companies’ charitable work effects purchase decisions too — more than 73% of Americans choose products and services which support giving and philanthropy.

Diamond market’s impact

The diamond mining industry still suffers from negative stereotypes that have accumulated over previous years. But in fact, sustainable initiatives have become an inherent part of leading diamond mining companies’ strategies. To protect the environment, market giants apply effective regulations and mining plans as well as implement new responsible practices to give back to the lands and societies. 

Although diamond mining is less harmful in contrast to other types of mining because it does not use any toxic chemicals, leading market players focus on diminishing their effects and put great efforts into lands rehabilitation, waters restoring and investing in social and environmental protections locally and globally. Same cannot be said about lab-diamonds producers, which are often positioned as responsible and eco-friendly, but whose greenhouse gas emissions are 3 times greater than for natural diamonds.

New epitome of help

Diamond
jewelry has always been more than just an accessory — it was aimed to make a statement, to mirror the owner’s personality and symbolize what was important for them. These days, per the Bain&Co research, both consumers and retailers are seeking for transparency and responsible diamond sourcing. Hence, it is safe to say, that now perception of diamond jewelry transforms among buyers and professionals — it is not just a tool for personal expression, but the way to deliver the idea of philanthropy, mindfulness and care.

For the last several years, the global leading diamond producer ALROSA has been unveiling profound initiatives in the realm of transparency and conflict-free diamonds. The main approach is to let partners and buyers trace the whole history of diamonds from taking them out the pipeline to polishing and cutting. Stakeholders are able to assure that the stones are mined in conflict-free area in Russia as well as track stone's way to markets.

ALROSA’s diamonds are not just natural and non-conflict. It is purely ethical. ALROSA remains the industry leader the industry leader in social investments too, according to the PwC study. Every year, ALROSA allocates 3% of the revenue to social expenses — this is the leading indicator in the industry. In 2019, the company allocated $159 million for pension payments, local development programs and corporate social programs for employees and their families, unveiling more than 500 social and charitable projects. The cost of environmental initiatives totaled another $92 million and included rare species protecting such as reindeers and restoring local waters.

For more than 60 years, ALROSA’s diamonds have been helping Yakutia, the largest and the coldest region where diamonds are born. The company's approach is to make sure that diamonds help provide people of the region with a decent life and the necessary social infrastructure.


ALROSA’s Top 5 Social Projects


Rehabilitation center for disabled children in Yakutsk

Every year, about 3,000 physically disabled children will receive medical care in the new rehabilitation center in Yakutsk. ALROSA covered the construction expenses, which exceeded RUB 1 billion ($15,4 millions). The center can help 250 children at once, and their parents can stay with them during the rehabilitation course. It is well equipped not only with technics and qualified doctors, but also psychologists, working with parents and explaining them how to care about their kids. Before the center was created, families with disabled children should search for care outside Yakutia.

Rehabilitation center for social orphans in Mirny

Unfortunately, sometimes it happens that children are left without parental love. These children need to be protected.
The company has financed $3 million to the construction of a social rehabilitation center for minors that is called Kharyskhal (eng. protective amulet) in Mirny. The main goals of the center are to help to save families, protect children, provide care for them in difficult times, and help children find new parents. It includes social, medical, psychological services and pedagogical work. While staying in the social center, children get food and housing, communication with peers and teachers, the opportunity to continue and finish their education and get additional skills.

Free medical screening for employees

Since 2017, ALROSA has been implementing a free medical screening for all employees in order to prevent serious diseases. People undergo screening under the programs “Men's Health”, “Prevention and Early Diagnosis of the Digestive System’s Diseases”, “Women's Health”, “Cardio screening” and “Audio screening”. Workers diagnosed with serious disease undergo treatment in leading medical institutions in Russia.

Zhigansk hospital

ALROSA helped to build a new hospital in Zhigansk, a small village in Yakutia ($6 million). A medical center with modern equipment has been built on the site of a cold old wooden building. In two years, thanks to the company's investments, the staff of doctors and nurses has been increased, new departments were added and new equipment installed. Diagnostics and treatment of patients reached a new, flagship level.

Nastroyeniye (eng. cheer, mood) sports and cultural festival

Every year ALROSA hosts over 4,000 sports and cultural events in the “diamond province” of Yakutia. The company has sponsorship contracts with various sports and cultural organizations. This is how the festival Nastroyeniye appeared in the towns of “diamond province”. Stars of basketball and acrobatic rock'n'roll, famous hockey players and wrestling champions, actors and choreographers came to Mirny, Aikhal, Udachny and Yakutsk to show their skills and teach children. Several thousands of children and adults attend the events. They meet the athletes with great pleasure, and participate in master classes and lessons. Every lesson is absolutely free.

As ALROSA’s top priority, social responsibility and mindful business is not limited by the regions of the company’s presence. ALROSA aims to expand its approach overseas and this year pulled efforts with Brilliant Earth — the retailer of ethically sourced and sustainable diamonds. Philosophies of both companies have much in common. Brilliant Earth and ALROSA share the same vision on importance of transparent provenance as well as using of sustainable metals and mitigating the effects of mining process.

Their partnership resulted in creating the limited Diamonds That Care collection of jewelry with diamonds, ethically mined in Yakutia. The items are made of natural brown-toned diamonds. Different hues of stones embody the diversity and abundance of nature and remind their owners how important it is to be aware and take care. As ALROSA’s social initiative, Diamonds That Care transmits the idea of awareness and personal responsibility. Every purchase of items from Diamonds That Care collection donates 10% to the Feeding America’s  COVID-19 Response Fund.

With the underlying idea called "I Care," ALROSA aims to draw attention to the diamonds as for the opportunity to do good twice — to bring joy and to give a helping hand those in need. Diamonds That Care collection jewelry piece is an easy way for everyone to make a contribution and invest in better world.

At the heart of each such initiative is a desire to help solve a social problem. But such initiatives are also aimed at showing that the responsibility of both manufacturers, retailers, and consumers is essential and setting an example for others. Care is probably the only thing where the interests of consumers, sellers and manufacturers converge at the same point, because the idea is much more important than the price or design.

Today, Brilliant Earth is the only partner of ALROSA in the US market for Diamonds that Care collections. But the company is always open to other ideas for social initiatives and charity projects, because diamonds can really help people.

The Latest

Bellman’s Jewelers The Truthful Jeweler Alex Bellman
IndependentsAug 20, 2025
Bellman’s Jewelers Opens Second Store After COO's TikTok Takes Off

The New Hampshire-based store has expanded to Boston, propelled by the success of Alex Bellman’s TikTok page, “The Truthful Jeweler.”

Stock image of police cars with lights flashing
CrimeAug 20, 2025
Another CA Jewelry Store Rammed With Car, Robbed

The latest incident happened Monday at a store in Oakland, California, continuing a pattern JSA first warned about last month.

Oris New York Harbor Limited Edition II Watch
WatchesAug 20, 2025
Oris Launches Watch Benefiting NYC Harbor Oyster Restoration

The new aqua green New York Harbor Limited Edition II is the watchmaker’s second collaboration with the Billion Oyster Project.

japac-btyb.png
Brought to you by
Rallying Call for the Jewelry Industry on Tariffs and Other Key Issues

Jewelers of America is leading the charge to protect the industry amidst rising economic threats.

Jewelers for Children logo
Events & AwardsAug 20, 2025
Take the Jewelers for Children ‘Trinity of Purpose’ Challenge

Participants who attend any three Rings of Strength events will be awarded a special medal.

Weekly QuizAug 15, 2025
This Week’s Quiz
Test your jewelry news knowledge by answering these questions.
Take the Quiz
National Jeweler columnist and jewelry sales expert Peter Smith
ColumnistsAug 19, 2025
Peter Smith: The Arrival Fallacy and Jewelry Retail

Smith shares wisdom he gleaned from a podcast he was listening to one morning while being walked by his dog, a Malshi named Sophie.

Fake Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra earrings
CrimeAug 19, 2025
Customs Seizes 7,300 Pairs of Fake ‘Alhambra’ Earrings

The counterfeit Van Cleef & Arpels jewels would have been worth more than $30 million if genuine.

rio-article photo-diamond.jpg
Brought to you by
Taking the Moment Head On: How Rio Grande Champions the Present & Future of Fine Jewelry

As a leading global jewelry supplier, Rio Grande is rapidly expanding and developing new solutions to meet the needs of jewelers worldwide.

MJSA Logo
MajorsAug 19, 2025
MJSA Apprenticeship Program Is Nationally Recognized

The MJSA Mentor & Apprenticeship Program received the Registered Apprenticeship Program designation by the U.S. Department of Labor.

Masaki Obu
WatchesAug 19, 2025
Casio America Names New Timepiece Division Manager

Casio executive and watch enthusiast Masaki Obu is the new general manager of its U.S. timepiece division.

Michael Barabash and husband Raymond Cuadrado
MajorsAug 18, 2025
Verragio’s Michael Barabash, a ‘Kind Soul,’ Dies at 58

Barabash, Verragio’s client relations representative, was a vital member of the team and is remembered as being warm and full of life.

John Hardy Dot Coil Necklace and Dot Hoop Earrings
CollectionsAug 18, 2025
John Hardy’s New ‘Dot’ Collection Is on Point

Originally introduced in 1992, the “Dot” collection is back with a capsule featuring five archival designs and three new creations.

IJO Vendor of the Year Allison-Kaufman
Events & AwardsAug 18, 2025
IJO Announces 2025 Vendor of the Year

Allison-Kaufman has received the honor for the fourth year in a row.

Image of Winona Ryder and Iman from Pandora’s Be Love marketing campaign
FinancialsAug 15, 2025
In Q2 Results, Pandora Talks Tariffs, Q4 Plans

The company had a solid second quarter, with sales of non-charm jewelry outpacing sales of pieces in its core collections.

Taylor Swift Etho Maria ruby earrings The Life of a Showgirl TS12
EditorsAug 15, 2025
Piece of the Week: Etho Maria’s Showgirl-Approved Ruby Drop Earrings

Taylor Swift dons the vibrant pair in new promotional imagery for her upcoming album, “The Life of a Showgirl,” set to release in October.

Audemars Piguet Starwheel Watch
WatchesAug 15, 2025
Audemars Piguet Acquires Majority Stake in Manufacturer

Its investment in micromechanics expert Inhotec will preserve skills essential to the watchmaking industry as a whole, said the company.

Nicolette Bianchi
MajorsAug 15, 2025
Rio Grande Names New Marketing Director

Nicolette Bianchi joins the wholesale provider with more than 15 years of cross-industry experience in marketing and product development.

Pippa Small Myanmar Fish Cluster
CollectionsAug 14, 2025
In Midst of ‘Sardine Girl Summer,’ Pippa Small Looks to ‘Flounder Fall’

Her new “Ocean” collection was inspired by Myanmar’s traditional articulated fish jewelry, with depictions of flounder, catfish, and more.

Casio America CEO Yusuke Suzuki
MajorsAug 14, 2025
Casio America Names New CEO

Longtime Casio executive Yusuke Suzuki is the new president and CEO of Casio’s U.S. subsidiary.

Cristiano Ronaldo and Stephanie Gottlieb Ring
TrendsAug 13, 2025
Cristiano Ronaldo Proposes With Gigantic Oval-Cut Diamond

Model Georgina Rodríguez received a rock of an engagement ring, with her diamond estimated to be 35 carats, experts say.

International Colored Gemstone Association logo
SourcingAug 13, 2025
ICA Names 2025 Board of Directors

The board elected 9 new directors at its recent ICA Congress in Brazil.

Whiskey Barrel Ring
TrendsAug 13, 2025
Colorado Jeweler, Whiskey Maker Collab on Ring Giveaway

Three winners will receive a custom ring from Honest Hands Ring Co. inlaid with a piece of history from Denver-based distillery Stranahan’s.

People shopping in a mall
SurveysAug 13, 2025
These Are The 25 Hottest Retailers, Says NRF

JD Sports and Wawa were among the fastest-growing retail companies in the U.S. last year.

Columbia Gem House Winza sapphires and rubies
SourcingAug 13, 2025
Columbia Gem House Launches Winza Sapphires, Rubies

The new inventory, all untreated, features vibrant hues and unique bicolor combinations.

Gemfields Faberge
SourcingAug 12, 2025
Gemfields Sells Fabergé for $50M

Acquired by a tech investor, the historic brand will continue to focus on jewelry, accessories, and timepieces.

Shipping containers on a ship
Policies & IssuesAug 12, 2025
Higher Tariff on Chinese Imports Paused for 90 Days, Trump Says

President Donald Trump issued an executive order extending the pause on higher tariffs to November as negotiations with China continue.

Jacquie Aiche Thunderbird Slab Collection Campaign
CollectionsAug 12, 2025
Jacquie Aiche’s New Collection Harnesses the Energy of the Thunderbird

The “Thunderbird Slab” collection features a thunderbird motif as a symbol of power, protection, and boundless possibility.

×

This site uses cookies to give you the best online experience. By continuing to use & browse this site, we assume you agree to our Privacy Policy