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Are diamonds losing their sparkle?

And can lab-grown diamonds be an ethical alternative?

For the past 100 years diamonds have been the ultimate symbol of love, luxury and opulence. But then, a darker side to them was exposed. Diamond mining was shown to have links to conflict, human rights abuses and state corruption, putting off a lot of consumers. Lab-grown diamonds then appeared on the market as a more eco-friendly, ethical and cheaper alternative, but do they have the same appeal?

We speak to Caroline Steel, a Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Science presenter, about what makes the gems so precious and the science behind how diamonds are formed.

We also hear from Shingai Nyoka, a Βι¶ΉΤΌΕΔ Africa reporter, about Africa’s relationship to diamond production, and the discovery of the second-largest mined diamond in Botswana in August.

Instagram: @bbcwhatintheworld
Email: whatintheworld@bbc.co.uk
WhatsApp: +44 0330 12 33 22 6
Presenter: Hannah Gelbart
Producers: Emily Horler and Benita Barden
Editor: Verity Wilde

Available now

16 minutes

Last on

Fri 30 Aug 2024 02:50GMT

Broadcasts

  • Thu 29 Aug 2024 17:50GMT
  • Fri 30 Aug 2024 02:50GMT

Podcast