Lab-grown gems lose 'diamond' status

The BIS has issued a new standard, IS 19469:2025, which legally defines a diamond as a naturally formed carbon crystal. Lab-grown diamonds can no longer be called diamonds. They must be sold with their own explicit identity, labels, and disclosures. Under the new rules, all retailers from jewellery stores to e-commerce platforms must clearly disclose whether a product is a natural diamond or a lab-grown diamond. Mislabeling, misleading advertising, or unclear selling practices will now face strict action. India has long been the heartbeat of the global diamond trade, processing around 90% of the world's polished diamonds by volume. But the natural diamond segment is under pressure. In FY25, exports of cut and polished diamonds fell 17% to $13.3 billion due to global uncertainties and shifting consumer preferences.

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The BIS has issued a new standard, IS 19469:2025, which legally defines a diamond as a naturally formed carbon crystal. Lab-grown diamonds can no longer be called diamonds.