Conflict resources are natural resources extracted in a conflict zone and sold to perpetuate the fighting. There is both statistical and anecdotal evidence that belligerent accessibility to precious commodities can prolong conflicts (a "resource curse"). The most prominent contemporary example has been the eastern provinces of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), where various armies, rebel groups, and outside actors have profited from mining while contributing to violence and exploitation during wars in the region.

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The four most commonly mined conflict minerals (known as 3TGs, from their initials) are cassiterite (for tin), wolframite (for tungsten), coltan (for tantalum), and gold ore, which are extracted from the eastern Congo, and passed through a variety of intermediaries before being purchased. 

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SOCAA do our best to support Section 1502 of the US Dodd-Frank Act regarding Conflict Minerals. As part of SOCAA's commitment, it is our goal to use tantalum, tin, tungsten and gold in products that do not directly or indirectly finance or benefit armed groups in the Democratic Republic of Congo or adjoining countries.