The Preferred Manufacturers of India (PMI) meet held in Goa touched upon the subject of Synthetic Diamonds. Solitaire Gem Labs (SGL) was the preferred laboratory partner at the meet.

The conclave on Synthetic Diamonds was conducted by Mr. ChiragSoni, SGL Director and Mr. Christopher MacDonald, who heads the SGL London operations. It highlighted the current challenges faced by the industry from CVD and other synthetic diamonds and the fact that SGL is now detecting an increasing incidence of CVD synthetics, noting risks that undisclosed synthetics could become a huge problem for the industry.

“It is hard to tell the difference between natural diamonds and CVD synthetics, without scientific instruments which is proving to be a hurdle in the easy detection of these stones as such expensive technology is not viable for all”, said Soni. He opined that a standardization system was needed for diamonds, but specifications would have to be clearly defined and agreed by industry bodies.

Mr. Chirstopher Macdonald agreed on this thought and noted that laboratories like SGL play a major role in helping the industry achieve jointly. Diamond industry leaders are alright with full disclosure and branding of synthetic diamonds, but the real concern is to tackle the fraudulent practice of mixing undisclosed synthetics with genuine natural diamonds. An undisclosed sale can eventually hamper the customer confidence in diamonds.

SGL plans to soon launch mandatory CVD tests for jewellery pieces received across all its centres and the idea was welcomed by the industry associates on the due diligence taken by the laboratory. The PMI was held by All India Gems & Jewellery Trade Federation (GJF).