Nine of the leading diamond and jewellery industry organisations (AWDC, CIBJO, DPA, GJEPC, IDI, IDMA, USJC, WDC and WFDB) have released a jointly developed Diamond Terminology Guideline to encourage full, fair and effective use of a clear and accessible terminology for diamonds and synthetics diamonds by all sector bodies, organisations, traders and retailers.
While not legally binding, the Diamond Terminology Guideline is designed to serve as the reference document when referring to or describing diamonds, synthetic diamonds and imitations of diamonds. It is built on two internationally accepted standards: the ISO 18323 Standard (Jewellery – Consumer Confidence in the Diamond Industry) and the CIBJO Diamond Blue Book.
“Protecting consumer confidence is of paramount importance to the long-term success of our industry,” said CIBJO president Gaetano Cavalieri. “The Diamond Terminology Guideline is an important tool in achieving this, by helping standardise the terminology used to clearly distinguish between diamonds and synthetic diamonds, in all communications, among ourselves and with our customers.”
“The Diamond Terminology Guideline is an important complement to the CIBJO Blue Book, with which it is fully consistent. It provides for easy and simple reference and will be distributed broadly within the industry. The accessible language, the succinct format and the broad support from leading industry organisations is intended to stimulate widespread implementation within trade and at the retail level,” Cavalieri said.
AWDC president Stephane Fischler said, “Language is extremely powerful in shaping perception. The enchanting brilliance of a diamond remains at the core of our promise but depends on fair and ethical practices and information. By standardizing the terminology used to differentiate diamonds and synthetic products, the Diamond Terminology Guideline will help eliminate any confusion among consumers.
“In backing this Guideline, the nine participating organisations recognise the importance of presenting a clear, coherent and consistent definition of the distinctiveness of a diamond. We encourage immediate implementation of this terminology throughout the diamond and jewellery trade. I would like to thank CIBJO for having taken the lead on this important milestone.”