CIBJO Report Advocates for Standardized Gemstone Terminology

The CIBJO Colored Stone Commission recently issued its fifth pre-congress report, highlighting the crucial need for consistent and clear terminology in the gemstone industry. This report underscores the importance of standardized language to safeguard consumer confidence and prevent misinterpretations when describing various gemstones. By addressing ambiguities and promoting transparent communication, the commission aims to ensure buyers are accurately informed about their purchases, thereby upholding the integrity of the market.

As the 2026 CIBJO Congress in Vicenza, Italy, approaches, the Coloured Stone Commission, led by Charles Abouchar, has released its findings on linguistic standards for gemstones. The core objective is to eliminate confusion by advocating for precise and universally understood terms. Abouchar states, "The ultimate goal remains protecting consumer confidence through the adoption of clear and descriptive language that transparently informs." This sentiment drives the commission's efforts to refine existing guidelines and introduce new ones.

A significant proposal within the report is the exclusive use of the term "synthetic" for man-made gemstones, replacing phrases like "laboratory grown" and "laboratory created." From September 2026, "synthetic" will be the only permissible descriptor for artificial products that share the chemical composition, physical properties, and structure of their natural counterparts. This change is intended to bring greater clarity to the market, ensuring consumers are well-informed about the nature of the gemstones they are considering.

Beyond synthetic gemstones, the report also addresses the proliferation of subjective and often misleading "fancy" descriptors. Abouchar points out that terms such as "pigeon blood" for rubies, while potentially commanding a premium, lack international standardization and can lead to unjustified price hikes. He notes that the market is frequently inundated with new color names, often to the advantage of laboratories and certain dealers. Many trade professionals acknowledge this issue, recognizing its potential to erode consumer trust, and largely support efforts to discourage or clearly qualify such terms in laboratory reports.

In addition to these linguistic reforms, the commission is preparing new comprehensive guides for opal and jade/fei cui, which will be freely accessible on the CIBJO website. These guides are the culmination of years of dedicated work by expert committees, providing valuable resources for the industry. Furthermore, an ad-hoc working group has commenced work on a Valuations Guide, which will factor in global market conditions and customs, further contributing to transparency and fair practice in gemstone valuation.

The latest report from CIBJO's Colored Stone Commission marks a pivotal step toward enhancing clarity and ethical practices within the global gemstone trade. By advocating for precise terminology, removing ambiguous descriptors, and providing accessible educational resources, the organization reinforces its commitment to consumer protection and market integrity. These initiatives are designed to foster an environment where trust and transparency are paramount, benefiting both consumers and legitimate businesses alike.