I have just received news this last hour that the De Beers Diamond Mine in Northern Canada is being blockaded by local Indigenous people. At this stage this is all I have to report. Photos and an official statement from the local community leaders is being sent through today. Will post as more information becomes

Earlier today I received a call from a First Nation Activist describing a blockade that is currently taking place at the Victor Diamond Mine in Northern Canada. I had spoken to him last year, starting an interview about a blockade at the same mine in February, 2009, but had never completed the article for publication.

Last week, Fair Trade Gold officially launched in the UK. Though only about 400 kilograms will available commercially, this event is a major turning point in the history of the jewelry world. Though this event has not widely been covered in the US press, in other parts of the world it was significant news. Here