In a landmark move for the gem and jewellery industry, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has officially notified new standards that redefine what can be marketed as a 'diamond' in India. The revised norms align the country's trade practices with international standards, aiming to eliminate consumer confusion and enhance transparency.
Clarity in Terminology: What's in a Name?
The core of the new notification is a clear and strict definition. The term "diamond" will now apply exclusively to natural diamonds. Stones created in a laboratory must be explicitly disclosed using approved terminology like "laboratory-grown diamond" or "laboratory-created diamond." The BIS has explicitly prohibited the use of misleading or outdated descriptors such as "fake," "artificial," or similar terms for these man-made stones.
Furthermore, the standards go beyond simple naming. They mandate full disclosure of any treatments a diamond undergoes and lay down precise definitions to ensure buyers know exactly what they are purchasing. The norms also specify the treatment processes used, such as Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD) and High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT), ensuring complete transparency in production methods.
Strict Rules on Abbreviations and Implementation
In a significant detail, the new standards will not permit the use of common abbreviations. Terms like "lab grown," "lab created," "lab diamond," or the acronym "LGD" are now prohibited in formal disclosures, pushing for full and unambiguous descriptions.
The newly introduced standard, IS 19469:2025, is a modified adoption of the international benchmark "ISO 18323:2015 – Jewellery – Consumer Confidence in the Diamond Industry." It was developed under the BIS MTD 10 Committee following an initiative by the Gem and Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) and extensive consultations with the Ministry of Consumer Affairs.
An industry insider highlighted the importance of this move, stating, "There are several laboratory certificates in circulation that can be misleading. These BIS standards will clear the confusion — it is akin to hallmarking for diamonds."
Boosting Confidence in a Growing Market
This regulatory clarity comes at a crucial time for India's jewellery sector. The industry is valued at nearly $80 billion in FY24 and is projected to grow to a staggering $225 billion by FY35, driven by robust domestic demand. India has already overtaken China to become the world's second-largest diamond jewellery market, with the segment currently valued at around $10 billion. Demand for diamond jewellery in the country is expected to double by 2030.
Kirit Bhansali, Chairman of GJEPC, emphasized the global context and impact of the new standards. "Similar standards have been in place globally for several years. These norms will enhance consumer confidence and credibility across both natural and laboratory-grown diamond segments. This is a significant step in ensuring India's diamond trade continues to lead the world with integrity and transparency," he said.
The revised Indian Standard provides comprehensive terminology and disclosure requirements covering not just natural and lab-grown diamonds, but also treated diamonds, composite stones, and imitations. By defining acceptable and prohibited terms, the standard seeks to eliminate all ambiguity, ensuring consumers are fully informed and the market operates with greater trust.
