The Government of the Russian Federation has approved new regulations governing the sale of jewellery containing synthetic stones, introducing stricter disclosure requirements for retailers and manufacturers from September 1, 2026.
The measures form part of Resolution No 657, adopted on May 30, 2026, which updates the rules governing retail sales of certain categories of goods, including precious metals and gemstones.
Under the new regulations, jewellery containing artificial materials identified using the name of a natural mineral must clearly state that the stone is “synthetic” on product tags and labels. The abbreviation “Synthet.” will also be permitted.
The rules further prohibit the use of the word “diamond” and its derivatives when describing synthetic materials. Retailers and manufacturers will also be barred from using quality and colour characteristics typically associated with natural diamonds in the description of synthetic stones.
In addition, the regulations restrict the use of a range of terms commonly associated with natural gemstones. Words including “precious,” “real,” “genuine,” “natural,” “mined,” “mineral,” and “eco-friendly,” along with similar expressions and derivatives, may not be used in consumer-facing information relating to synthetic stones set in jewellery made of precious metals.
The requirements apply not only to product labels and tags but also to all forms of information presented to consumers. The regulations are intended to establish clearer differentiation between natural and synthetic stones within the retail marketplace and strengthen transparency in product disclosure.
The resolution also specifies that when artificial materials are used as inlays in jewellery made from precious metals, any reference to the material must comply with the new labelling requirements. Information provided to consumers must accurately reflect the synthetic nature of the stone and avoid terminology that could create confusion regarding its origin or classification.
The new framework represents one of the latest regulatory developments affecting the global diamond and jewellery trade, as markets continue to address disclosure standards for synthetic stones. For jewellery manufacturers, retailers and suppliers operating internationally, the changes highlight the increasing focus on transparency and product identification in consumer communications.
