Understanding Diamond Terminology

Learn the latest diamond terminology guidelines that have been implemented to help protect consumers.

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In order to protect consumers, everyone working in the diamond industry, at all stages of the diamond pipeline, has a responsibility to use correct terminology. By creating an internationally agreed-upon nomenclature, we can prevent customer confusion and stay united on how we talk about, market and sell diamonds.

What are the Diamond Terminology Guidelines?

Nine of the world’s leading diamond industry organizations teamed-up to create the Diamond Terminology Guidelines–a simple document to encourage full, fair and effective use of clear and accessible terminology. The Diamond Terminology Guidelines covers diamonds, synthetic diamonds and imitation diamonds. It is designed to be used by all sector bodies, associations, traders, retailers, and designers.

Read the Diamond Terminology Guidelines.

Who Created the Diamond Terminology Guidelines?

The following organizations contributed to the global Diamond Terminology Guidelines:

“Clear and accessible diamond terminology is vital for protecting consumer rights and maintaining their confidence.”

Raluca Anghel, Head of External Affairs and Industry Relations, Natural Diamond Council.​

How were the Diamond Terminology Guidelines Developed?

The Diamond Terminology Guidelines are based on two internationally accepted standards: the the ISO 18323 Standard (“Jewellery – Consumer confidence in the diamond industry”) and the CIBJO Diamond Blue Book. This means they are perfectly aligned with pre-existing notions of how to describe diamonds.

Why is Diamond Product Disclosure So Important?

Diamond terminology is an important part of diamond product disclosure. Being open and honest about what is being traded and sold is vital for maintaining consumer confidence.

The Diamond Terminology Guidelines present a simple way to label natural diamonds, synthetic diamonds and diamond simulants. They are an important branch on a much larger tree. Elsewhere, diamond professionals are testing to pinpoint undisclosed synthetic diamonds and prevent them from mistakenly entering the natural diamond supply chain.

Product disclosure is about identifying and mitigating risks and implementing strategies to protect the integrity of the natural diamond pipeline. [Read more about how to maintain pipeline integrity here

For any questions regarding the Diamond Terminology Guidelines, please contact info@naturaldiamonds.com