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Consumer Information
CONSUMER ALERT- Consumers need to know that there is no central database for Canadian diamond identification numbers. Click here for more info.
Why a Canadian diamond?
Canadian diamonds are desirable because of their great attributes. They come from that exotic and beautiful Canadian north. Canadian diamonds are being mined in accordance with the principles of sustainable development They are mined to the highest environmental standards in the world; they have provided social benefits to the northern communities and have brought about important economic prosperity to their region (Check the mines websites). Canadian diamonds meet the requirements of the Kimberley Process and many of them can be traced back to the mine of origin. And, for Canadians, they support a new Canadian industry.
What is a Canadian diamond?
A diamond that was mined in Canada and may be cut and polished in Canada or abroad.
What are the benefits of this Code?
The Code establishes a minimum standard based on records and a chain of warranties required to validate a Canadian diamond claim. Retailers who abide by the Code demonstrate to consumers their commitment to ensure the authenticity of Canadian diamond claims. The Code allows Canadian diamonds to be traced from the Canadian mine to the diamond jewellery retailer, providing consumers with a method to authenticate Canadian diamonds sold by a Code member.
Canadian diamond brands
Canadian diamonds are sold under a number of brands which you can view on the Canadian Diamond Brands page.
Where to buy a Canadian diamond
Canadian diamonds can be purchased from Code members in all the provinces and the Northwest Territories. To find a retailer near you please go to the List of Code Members and click on your province or territory.
How do I know if a retailer is a Code member?
Retailers who are Code members should display in plain view in their store this sign:
What should I ask for if I want to buy a Canadian diamond?
A polished diamond certificate/report and an invoice 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.
How can I request the authentication of the Canadian diamond I purchased?
Contact the Canadian Diamond Code Office at 1-866-399-1118 or 1-416-363-2968 or by e-mail at info@canadiandiamondcodeofconduct.ca. You will be asked to provide the information described above. Upon receiving the required information, the Code Office will confirm whether or not the necessary steps were taken by all levels of the trade to meet the minimum requirements outlined in the Code.
Do Canadian diamonds cost more?
Mining diamonds at the highest environmental and social standards is expensive. The efforts required to meet the minimum standards of the Code also add a cost to the handling of Canadian diamonds because they need to be tracked in a manner that can be audited from the mine to the consumer. Some retailers prefer not to mark-up their Canadian diamonds knowing that they sell faster than others. Some retailers add a premium to their Canadian diamonds to cover their costs. That premium will vary from one retailer to another.
Consumer brochure
You can view the consumer brochure in PDF format
Does having my diamond registered with any company or web site mean that it is appraised and insured?
No, having your diamond registered with any company or web site is no substitution for having your diamond independently appraised and insured.
Other frequently asked questions
A number of other frequently asked questions can be found on the Frequently Asked Questions page
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