In response to heavy lobbying by lab the lab grown diamond industry, the government has once again come to a very poor decision. The FTC has re-written the terms that should be applied to natural diamonds, and lab grown diamonds. You should no longer use the term "Synthetic" when referring to lab grown diamonds.
Does this mean it is no longer proper to call lab grown colored stones "Synthetic"? It is exactly the same situation as diamonds. You would certainly fail the tests from every Gemmology school I know if you don't. They will all have to change their textbooks and training courses if this is true.
Did the bureaucrats who made this horrible decision even read the definition of the term synthetic as it applies to gemstones and minerals?
I think the industry world wide should push back and insist on proper use of the term synthetic.
Joined: Wed Jan 23, 2013 5:29 pm Posts: 1047 Location: Paris
A few years ago in France, only 18 kt minimum gold could be called "gold". But one day they took the decision to allow "gold" for 14kt and 9 kt (previously called "gold alloys"). This was a big cultural change, and somehow the consumer got confused (which was the purpose). I wonder if they will decide the same for synthetic diamond ? So far, we have a law that does not permit it.
Clearly, there were some "lobbyists" who helped determine proper nomenclature. Most imitations and simulants are lab grown as well.
Good point Barbra. So possibly the description Lab grown diamond simulant for CZ and Moissanite might be legal under the new rules. Than should confuse the consumer....
The gemstone industry, and government consumer protection organizations in the rest of the World are strongly objecting. Hopefully the U.S. Industry will object strongly enough to force some changes to this latest misguided rule change by the FTC.
Joined: Sun Oct 16, 2005 12:22 pm Posts: 21602 Location: San Francisco
Whatever the term used there is going to be the usual confusion. It has to come with a tutorial, a PowerPoint presentation and a pamphlet featuring exceptionally good looking people.
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