Polished Diamond Stones

FAQ

What is an Approved NWT Diamond Manufacturer?

As part of its Diamond Policy Framework, the GNWT offers this Approved status to manufacturers who meet specific standards and experience, with the desire to manufacture the highest quality of GNWT certified diamonds as part of this prestigious program.

How do I apply to become an Approved NWT Diamond Manufacturer?

In general, a potential manufacturer applies to the GNWT to become an Approved NWT Diamond Manufacturer. It reviews application forms for designation in accordance with a list of criteria and considerations. The sole authority for approval is the Minister of the Department of Industry, Tourism and Investment (ITI).

Click here to apply. 

If I am an Approved NWT Diamond Manufacturer, does that mean my facility may manufacture certified diamonds?

Yes. The GNWT remains flexible in its agreements with manufacturers to enhance the overall viability and sustainability of the NWT’s diamond manufacturing industry. Once a manufacturer receives Approved NWT Diamond Manufacturer status, they sign a Certification agreement that allows them to begin manufacturing certified diamonds under this program.

What does "Access to Rough" mean and who monitors this arrangement?

Arrangements with the three operating mines guarantee Approved NWT Diamond Manufacturers have access to rough stones for the purpose of manufacturing diamonds in the NWT.

Once the GNWT approves a manufacturer, it sends a letter to each of the mines endorsing the company as an Approved NWT Diamond Manufacturer. This informs the producing mine they may provide the company access to a portion of the 10 percent of rough NWT diamonds the mine produces. It is important to note that all of the Approved NWT Diamond Manufacturers share the 10 percent that is available from the producing mines.

It is the responsibility of the company to negotiate a commercial agreement with the producing mines that spells out the terms of that supply (quantity, quality, price, delivery dates, etc.). This is a private business arrangement between the mine and manufacturer. As well, each producing mine has its own internal policies dictating how its rough diamonds are sold on the open market. The GNWT has no involvement in these arrangements or policies.

What is the GNWT’s involvement in the NWT secondary (cutting and polishing) diamond industry?

With the release of its Diamond Policy Framework in 1999 (updated in 2010), the GNWT committed its support of the industry and pursuit to authenticate NWT diamonds mined, cut and polished in the NWT. This includes the Approved NWT Diamond Manufacturer certification and the GNWT Diamond Certification Program.

The GNWT commits to helping the secondary industry of the NWT establish and flourish through various departmental-funding programs.

In addition to the Environmental and Socio-Economic Agreements, the GNWT also entered into arrangements with the two operating mines for access to rough for the purpose of manufacturing diamonds in the NWT. In broad terms, this means the mines provide access to 10 percent of their production (on a five-week cycle basis) to Approved NWT Diamond Manufacturers.

How is the GNWT Diamond Certification Program monitored?

Approved NWT Diamond Manufacturers must enter into a Monitoring Agreement with the GNWT, as stipulated in the Diamond Policy Framework. The purpose of the Monitoring Agreement is to ensure the manufacture of rough diamonds allocated for use by Approved NWT Manufacturers takes place in the NWT.

Approved NWT Diamond Manufacturers must also keep detailed records on each stone and submit reports of purchases and processing of individual stones at key stages in the manufacturing process. The program also includes inspections at the factories to examine the diamonds and review and audit the records on a regular basis.

What is the GOVERNMENT CERTIFIED CANADIAN DIAMOND™ brand?

With the release of its Diamond Policy Framework in 1999 (update in 2010), the GNWT committed its support of the industry and pursuit to authenticate NWT diamonds mined, cut and polished in the NWT. This includes the Approved NWT Diamond Manufacturer designation and GNWT Diamond Certification Program. Diamonds certified under this program are guaranteed as mined, cut and polished in the NWT, and adhering to the highest ethical standards.

A GOVERNMENT CERTIFIED CANADIAN DIAMOND™ comes with an official government certificate. This genuine certificate contains specific information about the diamond, guaranteeing its pure, natural properties, and high standard of manufacturing. The certificate also contains an original serial number - the same number is laser engraved on the girdle of the diamond, proving its authenticity. The serial number is also recorded in a confidential centralized database adding value to these prestigious diamonds.

How does the NWT Diamond Industry benefit the NWT?

The NWT Diamond Industry is an integral part of the NWT’s economy. Mining companies provide NWT residents with training and employment opportunities. Hiring preference is given to NWT residents and workers can advance quickly in the company with ongoing training opportunities. They are also paid good wages and may receive numerous other benefits.

The NWT Diamond Industry supports and stimulates economic development by utilizing NWT contractors and businesses, and ensures the investment of a large percentage of profits back into the communities through ongoing support and philanthropy. The mines agreed to guarantee access to a percentage of rough stones to Approved NWT Diamond Manufacturers, which in turn supports the NWT secondary cutting and polishing industry as a viable economic venture and provides employment to NWT residents in this sector as well.