HRD Antwerp announced on Wednesday that it will become the first in the world to cease issuing certificates for synthetic diamonds from next year.
The Flemish city is aiming to strengthen its position as an international hub for natural diamond trade and enhance consumer trust.
Since 1973, HRD Antwerp has been certifying the authenticity and quality of diamonds. It extended this service to synthetic diamonds over a decade ago.
Synthetic diamonds are laboratory-produced, often by subjecting pure carbon to high pressure and temperature, making them indistinguishable from natural diamonds without specialised equipment.
The popularity of synthetic diamonds has surged in recent years, but HRD Antwerp believes that the distinction between natural and synthetic diamonds remains unclear for many consumers, leading to confusion.
By discontinuing certificates for synthetic diamonds, HRD Antwerp seeks to clarify this distinction and reinforce Antwerp’s role as a centre for natural diamonds, aiming to secure the future of natural diamonds and bolster consumer confidence.
Ellen Joncheere, CEO of HRD Antwerp, stated that from 2026, the company will no longer issue quality certificates for loose synthetic diamonds intended for commercial purposes.
However, they will continue to analyse synthetic diamonds on a limited basis for research purposes, and jewellery containing synthetic stones will still receive certification.
