why is the De Beers diamond monopoly super duper in ppl's minds?

Question

to be more exact, i am not asking why the de beers diamond monopoly exists or why the US government has done nothing against it (i know why, De Beers is an international body which the government can't easily regulate).

I am asking, why so many ppl are willing to support the corrupt diamond trade and monopoly of the de beers company by still buying diamonds for gifts and engagements.

This "diamond is forever" non-sense only started in the 1940s with brilliant marketing on the part of de beers (prior to it, it was emeralds, rubies, etc that were given for engagements). The "2 months' salary" non-sense aggrevates me even more.

Diamonds aren't even the rarest precious stones, if de beers would release supplies they keep in vaults.

Is it just the "everyone has it, so I need a bigger one" factor? I want to know how many ppl share my views about diamonds and de beers.

BTW, don't say you share my views if you would be disappointed by not receiving a diamond engagement ring

Answer 1

I agree with your points completely--people are becoming more aware of the corruption/exploitation inherent in the diamond trade from the movie "blood diamond". Odd, isn't it, how it always takes some mass pop culture fad (i.e. a big movie) to get people interested in social issues that have been around and visible for a very long time. As a previous respondent said, it's mindless consumerism. Personally, I've never liked diamonds (on top of the unethical mining and trading practices, including invovlement with conflicts, I find them cliche, tacky, just overal unoriginal) and I would actually be disappointed to receive a diamond engagement ring becasue that would mean my bf has not been listening to my "I hate diamonds" rants!
Let's hope the "buying diamonds is the only way to gauge success and love!" obsession is just a fad (albeit a long one) that will pass.
It disgusts me to see people all hyped up about the "social issue of the week" and then turn around and contradict what they've just learned/preached by purchasing a diamond or 3.
De Beers will keep marketing, because, as we all know, "the economy must grow!" (I say that sarcastically btw)

Answer 2

I do not know anything about de beers (except from de bars).
I have no use for jewels or metals that "supposedly" have value in a relationship or a Persons worth.
I am happy with silly little earrings and finger watches.

The BIG THING about jewels and metal is just a way for somebody to say "I made enough money to buy this stuff and I want you to notice it"!
I notice and then LAUGH! So much more could have been done with that money.

I know it is a question but
Why in the HECK do people spend so much money on GLITTER??
I laugh and buy groceries! I did win a Money prize awhile back. I bought things that my family NEEDED and put the rest in Savings.

Am I the only one that sees this STUPID thing about jewelry???

Answer 3

I would never wear a diamond unless it was 2nd hand (even though I'm married). I really can't stand the whole idea. If there were more ppl like you researching where they spent $, the world would be much different! Can we say mindless consumerism? Good question!

Answer 4

You obviously never owned a diamond piece, if ya did, then you would know what it feels like to be baller status.

Love diamonds, its a visual reminder of success!!