Frequently Asked Questions

I am trading natural diamonds, what should I call them?

The unqualified term ‘diamond’ only applies to naturally formed and mined diamonds, provided that these were not treated.

I am trading synthetic/laboratory-grown/laboratory-created diamonds, what should I call them?

The only terms that are allowed are ‘synthetic diamond’, ‘laboratory-grown diamond’*, and ‘laboratory-created diamond’. This is to ensure full transparency for consumers.

* While CIBJO does not endorse this abbreviation, ‘LGD’ is sometimes used in the trade.

Please note that in the USA, in addition to CIBJO rules, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) guidelines for jewelry gives additional recommendations.

I am trading both natural diamonds and synthetic/laboratory-grown/laboratory-created diamonds, what should I call them?

The unqualified term ‘diamond’ may only be used for diamonds of natural formation. Man-made diamonds have to always be named ‘synthetic diamond’ or ‘laboratory-grown diamond’ or ‘laboratory-created diamond’..

* While CIBJO does not endorse this abbreviation, ‘LGD’ is sometimes used in the trade.

These categories thus need to be clearly and distinctly separated in terms of nomenclature at all steps of the supply chain. This is to ensure consumer confidence in diamonds.