The Diamond Report NDC

by

Editor’s Note

This article addresses persistent myths about the diamond industry, highlighting how outdated perceptions fail to reflect its significant modern transformations and the potential consequences of such misconceptions.

Foreword
“The diamond industry continues on its upward trajectory. Yet, many myths persist about the operations, standards, and players in this sector. This is due, in part, to the historical legacy of diamonds and a persistent view of this industry that unfortunately does not account for its radical transformation in recent decades. These myths and misconceptions erode trust and, in the long term, can be detrimental not only to the diamond industry but especially to those who depend most on the positive impact of diamonds, such as the communities from which diamonds originate.”
“In an era of ethical and responsible purchasing, consumers want to know the values and business practices of the companies, and even the industries, from which they buy products and services. The Natural Diamond Council (NDC) aims to inform buyer decisions by communicating transparent information.”
“Far from perfect, the modern diamond industry faces many challenges and must still improve. It is in our unity that we find the strength to meet these challenges and seize the opportunities that arise. Worldwide, the diamond industry improves the lives of 10 million people by enhancing their access to healthcare, education, and better infrastructure, and funds large-scale responses to the planet’s major challenges. Furthermore, the industry devotes significant efforts to protecting and rehabilitating landscapes across all continents.”
“This analysis addresses misconceptions and questions about the industry with the goal of building trust and transparency in the customer relationship.”
“In a rapidly changing landscape, we strive to provide ever more data and feedback, and to collaborate to strengthen industry practices and its transparency.”
“We thank you for your interest in this report.”
Introduction

Recent years have marked the advent of synthetic diamonds, a new category born from industrial progress. Their arrival coincides with a flood of misconceptions, myths, and unfounded claims.

In this analysis, we will attempt to address misconceptions about natural diamonds and synthetic diamonds.

The objective is not to oppose these two categories, nor to establish a hierarchy, but rather to shed light on the reality and conditions of creation of synthetic and natural diamonds. Similarly, we intend to provide precise, accurate, and reliable information that will help buyers make informed decisions. As the study shows, the reader is free to form their own opinion based on the available information.

Customers, mining companies, investors, local communities in diamond-producing regions: all players in the diamond value chain suffer the consequences of misinformation, which challenges their economic stability.

We want to leave a positive legacy for all these stakeholders through honest and impartial research.

Our work details the investigation in the form of frequently asked questions concerning environmental and social standards, as well as misconceptions about the market, for example, the quantity of diamonds extracted.

We respond to those who claim it is impossible to differentiate a synthetic diamond from a natural one, and advise customers on purchasing a diamond by detailing the international regulations put in place to protect buyers throughout the supply chain.

Regarding the environment, we examine the notion of sustainability of synthetic diamonds and what it entails. Thus, we will review water consumption, waste and chemicals used, the carbon footprint of synthetic and natural diamonds, as well as the process of responsible mine commissioning and closure.

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⏰ Published on: January 12, 2026