The Antwerp World Diamond Centre (AWDC) has warned consumers to be on guard against possible deception when buying diamond jewellery, after finding that some retailers fail to disclose whether stones are natural or synthetic.
During a public awareness event at Antwerpen-Centraal railway station on 10 March, passers-by were invited to have their jewellery scanned free of charge to identify lab-grown stones (photo). The initiative aimed to highlight how little many consumers know about the differences between natural and synthetic diamonds—two products identical to the naked eye yet vastly different in value.
According to AWDC chief executive Karen Rentmeesters, “A natural diamond worth around US$8,900 can have a synthetic equivalent valued at just US$100. Without adequate information, buyers risk paying natural diamond prices for lab-grown stones.”
Belgium’s minister of employment and economy, David Clarinval, echoed these concerns, saying clearer rules were needed to ensure transparency and fair competition. Since May 2023, Belgian law has required jewellers to provide written documentation detailing a diamond’s origin. However, the AWDC says this is often ignored.
Clarinval is considering further measures, including restricting the term “diamond” to natural stones and extending disclosure rules to online sales and advertising, to ensure consumers know exactly what they are purchasing. (Photo courtesy: AWDC)
30-03-2026
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