Gemstone certifications: How we ensure our gemstones are ethical and conflict-free
At Maya Magal we hand select each gemstone for its individuality, charm and most importantly its origin. As a small business, we are proud to say we carefully select our suppliers, favouring family run businesses and local craftsmen to work with.
Each of our gemstones are reliably sourced by our founder Maya and our studio designer manager, Nathan. In accordance with international regulations like the Kimberley Process, and non-profit organisations, like the GIA, we can provide a certification document detailing the origins, authenticity, and quality of each stone upon request.
What is the Kimberley Process?
The Kimberley Process is an international pledge to cut out the distribution of conflict diamonds from the entire world. Currently, 99.8% of global trade is actively prevented by participants.
Our ethically sourced diamonds trust the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme under which supplying countries must certify their stones are conflict free. To participate in the scheme, countries must meet strict conditions and give comprehensive information about each stone.
Our diamonds are all certified by the Kimberley Process, ensuring that we are not financing any international conflicts.
What is the GIA?
The Gemological Institute of America, or GIA, is the leading authority on standards for gemstones and jewellery. The stones are examined by GIA to establish their authenticity and naturalness, while making any treatments and practises available to the public. A GIA Diamond Report is a guarantee of quality.
All of our diamonds are GIA certified, indicating that the GIA has evaluated each stone. Cut, clarity, colour, and carat weight are the four key parameters considered in GIA diamond reports. Upon request, we are always able to issue a GIA certificate for other gemstones too.
What is the IGI?
The International Gemological Institute, or IGI, is responsible for grading finished jewellery, natural and lab grown diamonds, and gemstones. The IGI provides evaluations that verify authenticity and quality, just like the GIA does.
According to rigorous international standards, IGI Diamond Reports provide an accurate evaluation of a diamond's cut, colour, clarity, and carat weight. Upon request, we can provide an IGI report on our diamonds and gemstones.
What are recycled diamonds?
Recycled diamonds, also known as repurposed or reclaimed diamonds, are diamonds that have been previously owned and then re-established into the diamond supply chain. These stones can date from the early 20th century and can be contemporary cuts, old European cuts, or vintage diamonds that have undergone recutting and re-polishing. We are proud to offer a variety of repurposed diamonds as an environmentally-friendly and socially conscious choice, particularly for engagement rings and wedding bands.
FAQ
What are conflict diamonds?
Conflict diamonds are those mined in regions under the control of groups who oppose a country's internationally recognised government and are thus used to fund wars.
How does the Kimberley Process work?
Governments are able to certify diamonds as conflict-free via the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme. To be able to do that, they must adhere to rigorous guidelines including pledging to transparent business practices, exchanging crucial statistical evidence, and only trading with other members who meet the agreement's basic requirements.
What is the importance of a GIA report?
The GIA Diamond Certification is a guarantee of the stone’s authenticity and quality. The reports work as an assurance of your investment.
How does the GIA work?
The GIA performs tests on the gemstone using specialised equipment for gemstone analysis. The GIA is a nonprofit organisation that conducts research and offers education to the public. It serves as an independent and unbiased body for assessing the quality of gems and providing unbiased information about them. The GIA doesn’t represent any jewellery or gemstone seller and doesn’t sell gemstones.
Can I bring my gemstones to Maya Magal to be repurposed?
Absolutely! As part of our sustainability guidelines, we offer a repurposing service to up-cycle inherited and unworn family heirlooms that have a special meaning.