According to a letter sent by Blom in January, the correct use of diamond nomenclatures was an issue shared by the diamond industry body and its members.
Blom noted that “internationally recognised and accepted nomenclature” stated that naturally mined diamonds showcased in tradeshows and exhibitions should simply be classified as diamonds.
“The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) provides a series of definitions which provide clarity for traders, and in order to maintain consumer confidence in the diamond industry as a whole,” Blom said.
“The ISO ruling defines a diamond as something that was ‘created by nature.’ [Therefore], the word ‘diamond’ must not be preceded with the word ‘natural’.”
He added that synthetic diamonds being exhibited for sale should be named synthetic, laboratory-grown or laboratory-created diamonds.
It is understood the issue was raised in direct response to providing greater transparency for buyers and exhibitors within the industry.
“ISO notes very clearly the need for integrity and transparency to ensure that consumers can have total confidence,” Blom noted.
“Buyers do not usually have the technical knowledge to understand the many aspects of diamonds, so they are reliant on correct and honest labelling.”
The WFDB was formed in 1947 in order to protect the interests of its affiliated groups and individual members.
According to its website, the WFDB represents 30 affiliated diamond bourses worldwide.
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