The Times has a great article on the abrupt changes and troubles that diamonds have brought to the Cinta-Larga tribe in Brazil, exploring the tensions between miners, the government and the tribe’s own greed.
“Back then, we had no idea what diamonds were worth,†recalled Roberto Carlos Cinta-Larga, a tribal leader who, following tradition, uses the tribe’s name as his surname. “We didn’t have money in those days and didn’t even really know what money was, because our nature was to stay apart from everyone else and not cultivate friendships.â€
It’s a great read, make sure to check it out. Also make sure to catch Blood Diamond at the theaters, they explore almost the same subjects – it might just make you reconsider next time you buy that bling bling.