Editor’s Note
CIBJO, the World Jewellery Confederation, is moving to enforce stricter labeling for non-natural diamonds, proposing the exclusive use of the term “synthetic” and removing terms like “laboratory-grown” from industry standards. This reversal of a 2010 decision aims to clarify distinctions in the diamond market.
(IDEX Online) – The World Jewellery Confederation (CIBJO) is set to reverse a decision made in 2010 and insist that non-natural diamonds are labelled as “synthetic”.
It says the terms “laboratory-grown” and “laboratory-created” should be removed from the Diamond Blue Book – the de facto standard for diamond terminology, grading and trade practices – and from all relevant ISO Standards.
In addition, the 4Cs grading system should be used only for natural diamonds (as the GIA is now doing).
Udi Sheintal (pictured), president of CIBJO’s Diamond Commission, said the original acceptance of lab grown terminology had been well-intentioned, but proved to be misplaced.
But he said many in the synthetic diamond sector — along with some grading laboratories and major retail chains – took advantage of that inclusive approach.
He also called for greater transparency, requiring that all descriptions and marketing of synthetic diamonds reflect the reality of their origin: they are not grown or created in a “laboratory,” but rather are manufactured in industrial facilities through artificial processes.