What to ask for when purchasing a Canadian diamond
If you are purchasing a Canadian diamond from a Code Signatory member you should ask for a polished diamond certificate/report and a receipt which contains the following information:
- the polished diamond description
- a unique Diamond Identification Number (DIN);
- a statement of certification that the polished diamond(s) is of Canadian origin and address of the issuer of the certificate/report;
- the retailer’s return policy;
- the date of purchase; and
- the name and address of the retailer.
If you are purchasing a Canadian diamond from a retailer who is not a Code Signatory member you still should ask for substantiation and assurance, in writing, that the diamond is from a Canadian mine, along with the usual polished diamond description, return policy and receipt.
All retailers, including non-Signatory members of the Code, who are making a claim that a diamond is from a Canadian mine should be able to substantiate their claim. The inability to substantiate such a claim could find the retailer in contravention of the Competition Act. If you have a complaint, you may register it with the Competition Bureau by contacting the toll-free number 1-800-348-5358 or visit www.competitionbureau.gc.ca for the complaint form (Complaint form - Competition Bureau Canada).
Consumers need to know that there is no central database for Canadian diamond identification numbers. Click here for more info.
