Navigating the World of Lab-Grown Diamonds: What Customers and Jewellers Need to Know
Lab-grown diamonds have been growing in popularity worldwide—and South Africa is no exception. With their ethical appeal, technological origin, and increasing availability, these gems have carved a significant space in the jewellery market. But with innovation comes the need for clarity and regulation. That’s why the Jewellery Council of South Africa (JCSA) has released a comprehensive guide outlining recommended practices to ensure transparency, consumer protection, and industry integrity. Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know: What Is a Lab-Grown Diamond? Lab-grown diamonds—also known as laboratory-created, man-made, or lab-created diamonds—are real diamonds made in controlled environments using either High-Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) or Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) technology. They possess the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as natural diamonds, but they’re created above ground rather than beneath it. While these diamonds are chemically identical to their mined counterparts, international guidelines (such as ISO 18323 and the CIBJO Diamond Blue Book) still reserve the word “diamond” alone for those formed by nature. Why These Guidelines Matter The JCSA’s recommended practices serve two primary purposes: Key Recommendations for Retailers and Suppliers 1. Clear Terminology Is EssentialOnly specific descriptors should be used, such as “lab-grown diamond” or “laboratory-created diamond.” Terms like “synthetic diamond” or “counterfeit diamond” are misleading and should be avoided. 2. Mandatory DisclosureFull disclosure isn’t just ethical—it’s legal. Sellers must explicitly state whether a diamond is lab-grown in all marketing, sales documents, and verbal communication. Non-disclosure constitutes fraud and violates the Consumer Protection Act. 3. No Mixing of DiamondsCompanies dealing in both natural and lab-grown diamonds must have strict processes to prevent cross-contamination. Stones should be separated, labelled clearly, and tested where necessary. Smart Pro Optimum Diamond Multi-TesterSmartPro MAX Diamond Multi-Tester 4. Labelling and HallmarkingWhere possible, jewellery set with lab-grown diamonds should be stamped “LGD” and accompanied by appropriate documentation. For stones above 0.20cts, a grading report is recommended. Lab Grown Diamond Stamp 5. Valuation and PricingAs lab-grown diamond pricing is still evolving, replacement valuations should reflect current retail pricing. Clarity in valuations—stating whether the stone is natural or lab-grown—is non-negotiable. 6. Technology, Detection & TrackingAdvanced tech, such as blockchain tracking and nanoparticle tracing, is encouraged to boost transparency and traceability across the supply chain. Jewellers are urged to use detection tools and testing labs when in doubt. Smart Pro Optimum Diamond Multi-TesterSmartPro MAX Diamond Multi-Tester Consequences of Non-Disclosure The Jewellery Council takes misrepresentation seriously. Non-disclosure of lab-grown diamonds may lead to: A proposal is also underway to establish a Jewellery Integrity Commission, which will serve as an official body to mediate, investigate, and act on reports of non-disclosure and other unethical practices. Final Thoughts Lab-grown diamonds are here to stay, offering exciting opportunities for both jewellers and consumers. But with that innovation comes responsibility. Whether you’re a buyer, a retailer, or a manufacturer, transparency is the cornerstone of trust in the jewellery industry. By following the JCSA’s guidelines, the South African diamond sector can confidently embrace this new era—one that balances modern technology with ethical standards and honest practices. For more, click here to view the Guidelines & Recommended Trade Practices Relating to Laboratory-grown Diamonds set by the Jewellery Council of South Africa. For more information or to report a concern, contact:The Jewellery Council of South Africa📧 Email: lornal@jewellery.org.za📞 Tel: 011 484 5528
News Nugget -May 2025
PlatAfrica 2025: A New Horizon for Jewellery Designers
Calling all jewellery designers, students, apprentices, and professionals — South Africa’s most prestigious platinum jewellery design and manufacturing competition is back! Now in its 26th year, PlatAfrica 2025 invites you to create pieces that explore bold new beginnings under the theme: New Horizon. What does “New Horizon” mean for your designs? This year’s theme celebrates the spirit of innovation, exploration, and transformation. It’s a call to push boundaries, reimagine tradition, and bring a fresh perspective to platinum jewellery. Designers are encouraged to interpret “New Horizon” through elements that reflect: From futuristic forms to meaningful narratives, PlatAfrica 2025 invites you to showcase forward-thinking creativity, balanced with technical mastery and wearability. Who Can Enter? The competition is open to: Whether you’re emerging or established, this is your opportunity to work with precious platinum metal, gain valuable feedback, and showcase your work on a national stage. Hosted annually by Anglo American Platinum, Metal Concentrators (MetCon), and Platinum Guild International (PGI), PlatAfrica is more than a competition — it’s a platform to grow your craft and gain recognition within the jewellery industry. What Judges Are Looking For The judging panel will evaluate entries based on: Think: future-forward, elegant, and extraordinary — with a touch of art. Exclusive for Professionals: Capsule Collection 2025 In addition to the main competition, professional designers are invited to develop a Capsule Collection inspired by their main entry — a commercial range designed for the global market. Participation in the Capsule Collection is optional and judged separately, but it’s a fantastic opportunity to take your vision beyond a single piece and into a cohesive, market-ready collection. Key Deadlines No late entries will be accepted. Take note of all deadlines, especially for metal requests and castings. How to Enter Note: MetCon will issue Pt/Ru bars unless Pt/Cu is specifically requested. Why Enter PlatAfrica 2025? This competition isn’t just about a trophy — it’s about expanding your creative vision, working with one of the world’s most prestigious metals, and making your mark in the South African jewellery design scene. Whether you’re a rising student or a seasoned professional, this is your moment to redefine what’s possible in platinum. Step into the New Horizon. Enter PlatAfrica 2025.
Lab Grown Diamonds: Setting A New Standard in Ethical Luxury
The jewellery industry is shifting — and lab-grown diamonds are leading the change. With growing demand for transparency, sustainability, and responsible sourcing, both global and local industry bodies are stepping up to ensure the highest standards are met. A Global Benchmark: The LGMS The Responsible Jewellery Council (RJC) has launched the Laboratory Grown Material Standard (LGMS) — a new global benchmark for ethical and sustainable practices in the lab-grown diamond and gemstone sector. RJC Chairman Dave Meleski put it simply: “We’re not just setting a standard; we’re setting a vision for a future where elegance and ethics go hand in hand.” The LGMS outlines clear systems for legal compliance, human rights, environmental management, and transparent supply chains. It will be voluntary for RJC members in its first year but becomes mandatory thereafter — with support provided through training and streamlined audits. Local Compliance: The JCSA’s Role In South Africa, the Jewellery Council of SA (JCSA) has issued guidelines for trade practices in the lab-grown diamond space. These aim to protect consumer confidence and align with global standards like CIBJO and ISO. Key points include: The JCSA recommends stamping jewellery with LGD, maintaining accurate valuations, and using third-party verification where in-house testing is unavailable. To address industry misconduct, the Council is proposing a Jewellery Integrity Commission to mediate and rule on matters like non-disclosure and fraud. Introducing: Teomim’s Lab-Grown Diamond Tennis Bracelets DIVA: Refine Shine — Where Diamond Luxury Meets Retail SuccessSay hello to Diva! – the fresh, fashion-forward jewellery collection from Teomim Lab Diamonds, a name known for quality, value, and trust. Designed for modern customers seeking affordable luxury, Diva! features elegant, on-trend pieces that move fast and deliver strong margins for retailers. From tennis bracelets and solitaire rings to 4-claw stud earrings, each piece showcases brilliant lab-grown diamonds set in 9ct or 18ct white, yellow, or rose gold. With lab-grown jewellery on the rise, Diva! brings you high-appeal, high-return styles backed by the Teomim name. Easy to stock, easy to sell — and loved by customers. Teomim is proud to align with these standards through the launch of its lab-grown diamond tennis bracelets — timeless pieces crafted with care, ready to ship in 2–3 days. Ethical, elegant, and effortlessly wearable. A Responsible Future for Jewellery Lab-grown diamonds represent a refined, forward-thinking approach to fine jewellery — combining beauty with transparency. With frameworks like the LGMS and JCSA guidelines gaining traction, the industry is clearly moving toward greater clarity and accountability.
News Nugget -April 2025
These Are The Exclusive Benefits for JCSA Members
Becoming a member of the Jewellery Council of South Africa (JCSA) comes with numerous advantages, ensuring ethical standards and providing invaluable industry support. Here’s a quick overview of the key benefits: Joining the JCSA not only supports ethical practices in the jewellery industry but also provides crucial resources for business growth and professional development.
Maximising Your Jewellery Brand on Pinterest
As a visual search engine, Pinterest is a goldmine for jewellery brands looking to gain visibility, attract new customers, and increase sales. With its image-rich interface, Pinterest is more than just another social media platform—it is where many consumers begin their shopping journey, gathering inspiration and saving their favourite jewellery styles. By refining a digital marketing strategy, a jewellery brand can not only capture the customer’s eye but also spark their imagination. Here are two ways to enhance and expand a Pinterest presence. Our Opinion on Pinterest Marketing Pinterest offers jewellery brands an incredible opportunity to connect with their audience in a visually compelling way. With its focus on discovery and inspiration, it serves as the perfect platform for showcasing jewellery collections, allowing consumers to explore, save, and ultimately purchase products. By creating curated boards and using rich, high-quality images, jewellery brands can not only elevate their online presence but also spark meaningful connections with potential customers. The platform’s shopping features provide an excellent way to convert inspiration into action, making it easy for users to purchase directly from pins. Additionally, Pinterest’s search and discovery tools help brands gain visibility among users who are actively searching for products, making it an invaluable resource for growing brand awareness and driving sales. Overall, Pinterest is not just about showcasing jewellery—it’s about creating an inspiring, seamless shopping journey that leads customers from discovery to purchase. Article inspired by: Emmanuel Raheb
News Nugget -March 2025
News Nugget – February 2025
The Perfect Setting: 4 Claw Earring Collets For Your Precious Stones
When it comes to showcasing diamonds and gemstones in earrings, the right setting makes all the difference. Our 4 Claw Earring Collets, available in 9ct and 18ct Yellow Gold, White Gold and Sterling, offer a secure and elegant way to highlight the beauty of your stones. Whether you’re looking for high-quality findings or wanting to create a custom pair of earrings, our range of collets is designed for precision and durability. Why Choose 4 Claw Earring Collets? The 4 claw design is a classic choice for earrings, offering:– Maximum Light Exposure – The open setting allows more light to pass through the stone, enhancing its brilliance.– Secure Hold – Four sturdy claws keep the gemstone firmly in place without overshadowing its beauty.– Timeless Elegance – A minimalist and sophisticated look that suits both modern and vintage designs. Sizes to Suit Every Stone We offer a variety of sizes to accommodate different carat ranges and stone diameters, ensuring a perfect fit for your jewellery creations. View these details in our Findings Booklet here. Designed for Quality & Precision Each collet is crafted with precision to ensure a seamless fit for your stones. The 9ct and 18ct gold options offer both affordability and luxury, making them ideal for a wide range of jewellery pieces. Whether you’re setting diamonds, sapphires, or other precious stones, these collets provide a strong foundation for timeless earrings. Order Yours Today Our 4 Claw Earring Collets are the perfect choice for secure and stunning earring settings. Contact us today to place your order and elevate your jewellery designs!