Bloodstones are diamonds or colored gems that "originate from areas controlled by forces or factions opposed to legitimate and internationally recognized governments, and are used to fund military action in opposition to those governments, or in contravention of the decisions of the U.N. Security Council."
The 2006 Hollywood film "Blood Diamond" starring Leonardo DiCaprio highlights how the illegal diamond trade has been the cause of enormous human suffering, helping to fuel and finance armed conflict in parts of Africa. Such stones bear the scars of conflict, destruction, and human rights abuse. In other places, local communities have encountered intimidation, abuse, even violent suppression when voicing opposition to mining projects.
Interpress Service Article:
US Congressional report finds a need to turn off the
blood diamond trade to the US.