SAQA All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED QUALIFICATION THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE: 

National Certificate: Diamond Processing 
SAQA QUAL ID QUALIFICATION TITLE
59851  National Certificate: Diamond Processing 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Mining and Minerals 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK
MQA - Mining Qualifications Authority  OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework 
QUALIFICATION TYPE FIELD SUBFIELD
National Certificate  Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology  Fabrication and Extraction 
ABET BAND MINIMUM CREDITS PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL QUAL CLASS
Undefined  150  Level 3  NQF Level 03  Regular-Unit Stds Based 
REGISTRATION STATUS SAQA DECISION NUMBER REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE
Passed the End Date -
Status was "Reregistered" 		 SAQA 9999/99  2018-07-01  2023-06-30 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2026-06-30   2029-06-30  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This qualification replaces: 
Qual ID Qualification Title Pre-2009 NQF Level NQF Level Min Credits Replacement Status
21846  National Certificate: Diamond Processing Operator  Level 2  NQF Level 02  129  Complete 

PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION 
Purpose:

This qualification will equip qualifying learners with the necessary knowledge, understanding and competence to process diamond gemstones to internationally recognised standards. It is aimed at people who work or intend to work within the diamond processing industry and who seek recognition for skills in processing diamond gemstones.

Recipients of this qualification know about and are able to process rough diamond gemstones into cut and polished diamond gemstones for sale into local and international markets. The ability of the industry to develop its potential in the beneficiation of raw materials is dependent upon the development of processing skills to provide the platform for expansion of the industry and to have a base of skilled workers to feed the more skilled occupations of Crossworkers, Brillianteers, Bruters, Parters and Fancy Stone Makers.

The qualification is designed to be flexible and accessible so that people are able to consistently demonstrate the competencies required to work safely and effectively in processing diamond gemstones. The understanding of the role of the diamond processing sector in terms of the jewellery manufacturing and diamond distribution system will be understood as well as the importance of their role in the distribution chain.

The candidate can select the stream they wish to specialize in:
  • A: Preparation.
  • B: Cutting.
  • C: Bottom Processing.
  • D: Top Processing.
  • E: Automatic Processing.

    Qualified learners will, subject to the elected stream, be able to:
  • Communicate and solve problems by applying mathematical practical applications in a variety of ways.
  • Adhere to occupational safety, health and environmental requirements.
  • Understand the structure and history of the industry.
  • Describe the shapes and characteristics of diamond gemstones.
  • Prepare diamond gemstones for processing.
  • Cut diamond gemstones for polishing.
  • Polish bottoms on diamond gemstones.
  • Polish tops on diamond gemstones.
  • Polish diamond gemstones using semi automatic equipment.

    This qualification introduces an understanding of the processing of rough diamonds into cut and polished diamond gemstones which falls in the sub-field Fabrication and Extraction. It will enable learners to be informed workers in the Industry. It provides a balanced learning experience that allows flexible access to life long learning in further or higher education and productive employment in the diamond processing industry.

    Rationale:

    The processing of diamonds is not a mechanical process, but one which requires understanding of the nature and structure of the diamond crystal, how the processing reveals the qualities of the gemstone and how impurities can affect the ultimate value of the gemstone. The need for this qualification was identified by a number of means:
  • It has been identified as one of the priority areas within the Mining and Minerals Sector by means of the Sector Skills Plan.
  • It has been identified by research commissioned by the Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA) and the German Technical Co-operation (GTZ) which research was published in May 2003 in a work entitled "A Skills Analysis of the Jewellery Manufacturing and Gemstone Processing Industries in South Africa".
  • Employers within the diamond processing industry have indicated the need to give formal recognition to the learning given to the majority of employees in the industry (most of whom are previously disadvantaged).
  • The changing technology within the diamond processing industry requires that processors are equipped with recognised skills that are able to be applied under a variety of circumstances according to the dynamic change in supply of rough stones for processing.
  • The quality standards to enable the South African industry to compete favourably with overseas processing industries demand that stringent quality and operating standards are applied to enable the diamond processing sector to remain viable in South Africa and support the expansion of the wider jewellery manufacturing industry.

    This qualification is a revision of the previous National Certificate Diamond Processing Operator (NLRD 21846) registered with SAQA. Changes are incorporated as a result of practical implementation within the sector and reflect the drive towards continual improvement.

    The National Certificate: Diamond Processing is designed to meet the needs of learners in or entering into the diamond processing industry as well as the needs of employers wishing to promote recognized levels of competence in the workforce. Previously workers were trained and developed using informal methods. The associated status of a nationally recognised qualification will serve as a motivation for high-level learners to enter the career of diamond processing. Current process operators, particularly, will benefit from the opportunities of assessment and subsequent recognition presented by RPL (Recognition of Prior Learning).

    It is a key qualification that allows for mobility and portability within the diamond processing sector. It is a step towards obtaining a range of qualifications in diamond processing for learners who:
  • Were previously disadvantaged.
  • Have worked in the diamond processing industry for many years, but have no formal qualification in their area of work.
  • Wish to extend their knowledge and understanding of the diamond processing industry.
  • Have recently taken up a position in the diamond processing industry.

    This qualification will also provide entrants to the industry with a structured framework to develop a measured career path within the diamond processing industry. The majority of the candidates for this qualification are likely to be working in the diamond processing industry already. The qualification will give them the opportunity to have their skills recognised as the previous practice only accorded recognition at journeyman level. This qualification would provide a launching pad for development into diamond polishing qualifications at higher levels.

    There is a critical need in the industry to convert experienced personnel into qualified practitioners to raise the credibility of the industry and to enhance South Africa's reputation as a centre for diamond processing. This qualification would provide experienced, but unrecognised people in the industry an opportunity to establish their skills for further development.

    The intention is:
  • To promote the development of knowledge and competencies that are required in the diamond processing industry.
  • To develop the potential of employees in the diamond processing industry.
  • To provide opportunities for life long learning for learners who work in the diamond processing industry where no general formal qualification currently exists.

    The National Certificate: Diamond Processing will produce knowledgeable workers who are able to contribute to improved productivity within the diamond processing industry. It should provide the means for current workers to receive recognition of prior learning. The qualification is structured in a way that exposes learners to the different aspects of diamond processing. It is anticipated that this qualification will promote the notion of lifelong learning by encouraging entrants to the industry and existing participants to seek recognition for and develop their skills.

    This is the first qualification in a learning pathway for Diamond Processing. Typical learning pathways for learners who acquire this qualification could be to enhance processing skills towards the NQF Level 4 qualification and the trades of Crossworker, Brillianteer, Bruter, Parting and Fancy Stone Maker. This qualification will also provide a foundation for learners wishing to advance to the related qualifications of diamond design and evaluation, examination or support services. For some learners progression into Supervisory Management and Leadership competencies will create the opportunity to assume managerial responsibilities in the workplace.

    The qualification is designed to be flexible and accessible so that people are able to demonstrate the competencies in diamond processing across the jewellery manufacturing sector of the mining and minerals sector.

    Qualifying learners will be appointed as Processors according to the elected stream, controlling the complete diamond processing activity by means of technologically advanced processes to create cut and polished diamond gemstones; for sale into local or international markets. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    It is assumed that candidates embarking on learning towards this qualification are already competent in:
  • Communication and Mathematical Literacy at NQF Level 2.

    Recognition of Prior Learning:

    This qualification can be obtained by completing all the required unit standards in a structured learning programme, or through recognition of prior learning (RPL). The criteria for RPL would need to be in line with the MQA's ETQA requirements.

    Evidence can be presented in a variety of forms, including international or previous local qualifications, reports, testimonials mentioning functions performed, work records, portfolios, videos of practice and performance records.

    All such evidence would be judged according to the general principles of assessment.

    Access to the Qualification:

    Access is open; however it is preferable that learners have completed the GETC: Mining and Mineral Processes. (Diamond processing stream). 
    		•

    RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? 
    Y 

    QUALIFICATION RULES 
    Fundamentals:
  • All 36 credits are compulsory and must be achieved.

    Core:
  • All 32 credits are compulsory.

    Electives:
  • A minimum of 82 credits elective credits as specified below must be achieved.

    There are five specialisations possible:

    A: Preparation.
    B: Cutting.
    C: Bottom Polishing.
    D: Top Polishing.
    E: Automatic Polishing.

    For Specialization area A: Preparation, the following unit standards (72 credits) are to be achieved:

    Title; Level; Credits:
  • Facet the girdle by machine; Level 3; 20 credits.
  • Open windows on diamond gemstones; Level 3; 10 credits.
  • Set up a bench and level a scaiffe for polishing diamond gemstones; Level 2; 2 credits.
  • Prepare a scaiffe for polishing diamond gemstones; Level 2; 2 credits.
  • Level tangs for polishing diamond gemstones; Level 2; 2 credits.
  • Prepare sawn diamond gemstones for processing; Level 3; 18 credits.
  • Prepare makeable diamond gemstones for processing; Level 3; 18 credits.

    Total = 72 credits.

    A further 10 credits are to be chosen from the rest of the electives to make up a minimum of 150 credits for the qualification.

    For Specialization area B: Cutting, the following unit standards (63 credits) are to be achieved:

    Title; Level; Credits:
  • Rough cut diamond gemstones using double spindle machines; Level 3; 20 credits.
  • Rough cut diamond gemstones using diamond impregnated wheels; Level 3; 20 credits.
  • Rondist diamond gemstones using semi automatic equipment; Level 3; 18 credits.
  • Fix diamond gemstones with cement for cutting; Level 2; 5 credits.

    Total = 63 credits.

    A further 19 credits are to be chosen from the rest of the electives to make up a minimum of 150 credits for the qualification.

    For Specialization area C: Bottom Polishing, the following unit standards (74 credits) are to be achieved:

    Title; Level; Credits:
  • Set up a bench and level a scaiffe for polishing diamond gemstones; Level 2; 2 credits.
  • Prepare a scaiffe for polishing diamond gemstones; Level 2; 2 credits.
  • Level tangs for polishing diamond gemstones; Level 2; 2 credits.
  • Set diamond gemstones using the press pot system; Level 2; 3 credits.
  • Prepare and polish tables on diamond gemstones; Level 3; 10 credits.
  • Bottom block diamond gemstones; Level 3; 15 credits.
  • Bottom lap diamond gemstones; Level 3; 20 credits.
  • Polish bottom halves on diamond gemstones; Level 3; 20 credits.

    Total = 74.

    A further 8 credits are to be chosen from the rest of the electives to make up a minimum of 150 credits for the qualification.

    For Specialization area D: Top Polishing, the following unit standards (74 credits) are to be achieved:

    Title; Level; Credits:
  • Set up a bench and level a scaiffe for polishing diamond gemstones; Level 2; 2 credits.
  • Prepare a scaiffe for polishing diamond gemstones; Level 2; 2 credits.
  • Level tangs for polishing diamond gemstones; Level 2; 2 credits.
  • Set diamond gemstones using the press pot system; Level 2; 3 credits.
  • Top block diamond gemstones; Level 3; 10 credits.
  • Top lap diamond gemstones; Level 3; 20 credits.
  • Polish top halves on diamond gemstones; Level 3; 18 credits.
  • Polish stars on diamond gemstones; Level 3; 17 credits.

    Total = 74 credits.

    A further 8 credits are to be chosen from the rest of the electives to make up a minimum of 150 credits for the qualification.

    For Specialization area E: Automatic Polishing, the following unit standards (65 credits) are to be achieved:

    Title; Level; Credits:
  • Set up a bench and level a scaiffe; Level 2; 2 credits.
  • Prepare a scaiffe for polishing diamond gemstones; Level 2; 2 credits.
  • Level tangs for polishing diamond gemstones; Level 2; 2 credits.
  • Screen diamond gemstones; Level 2; 5 credits.
  • Block bottoms on diamond gemstones using automatic machinery; Level 3; 12 credits.
  • Block tops on diamond gemstones using automatic machinery; Level 3; 15 credits.
  • Polish bottoms on diamond gemstones using automatic machinery; Level 3; 15 credits.
  • Polish tops on diamond gemstones using automatic machinery; Level 3; 12 credits.

    Total = 65 credits.

    A further 17 credits are to be chosen from the rest of the electives to make up a minimum of 150 credits for the qualification. 
    		•

    EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES 
    1. Communicate and solve problems by applying mathematical practical applications in a variety of ways.

    2. Adhere to occupational health, safety and environmental standards in the workplace.

    3. Describe the shapes and characteristics of diamond gemstones.

    4. Prepare diamond gemstones for processing.

    OR

    5. Cut diamond gemstones for processing.

    OR

    6. Polish bottoms on diamond gemstones.

    OR

    7. Polish tops on diamond gemstones.

    OR

    8. Polish diamond gemstones using automatic equipment.
    Range: Automatic equipment refers to:
    > Multi-headed blocking machines.
    > Multi-headed polishing machines.

    Consistency of Exit Level Outcomes with Critical Cross-field Outcomes:

    The following CCFO's have been addressed in this qualification as per the unit standards outlined in the Annexure.

    Critical Cross-Field Outcomes:
  • Identifying and solving problems in which responses display that responsible decisions using critical thinking have been made:
    > Evident in all Exit Level Outcomes.
  • Working effectively with others as a member of a team, group, organization and community:
    > Evident in all Exit Level Outcomes.
  • Organising and managing oneself and one's activities responsibly and effectively:
    > Evident in Exit Level Outcome's 1, 4, 5, 6 ,7, 8.
  • Collecting, analyzing, organizing and critically evaluating information:
    > Evident in all Exit Level Outcomes.
  • Communicating effectively using visual, mathematical and/or language skills:
    > Evident in all Exit Level Outcomes.
  • Using science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility toward the environment and health of others:
    > Evident in all Exit Level Outcomes.
  • Demonstrating an understanding of the world as a set of related systems by recognizing that problem contexts do not exist in isolation:
    > Evident in all Exit Level Outcomes.
  • Contributing to the full personal development of each learner and the social and economic development of society at large:
  • Evident in all Exit Level Outcomes. 
    		•

    ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA 
    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 1:
  • Oral communication is maintained and adapted as required to promote effective interaction in a work context.
  • Written communication is conducted at an appropriate level for designated target audiences.
  • Mathematical principles and techniques are applied while performing the tasks in the operational context.
  • Problems and solutions are recorded and monitored for reoccurrence.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 2:
  • Occupational Health, Safety and Environmental polices, procedures and requirements are adhered to at all times as per workplace requirements.
  • Safe, healthy and environmentally related activities are conducted in a diamond processing environment according to the Occupational Health, Safety and Environmental requirements.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 3:
  • The properties of diamonds are explained and the implications on ultimate value of the processed diamond is related to international standards.
  • The different shapes of diamonds are described and are related to their applications after processing.
  • The basis of valuation of diamond gemstones is understood; and the impact of non compliance with processing procedures is explained in terms of the potential value.
  • The different uses of diamonds are explained in the context of purity, proportion, finish, size and shape.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 4:
  • Tools and equipment are identified and their applications explained in terms of their application for processing diamonds.
  • The activities in preparing diamond gemstones for processing are explained and the importance to the process demonstrated in terms of the properties and value of the finished gemstone.
  • Diamond gemstones are set and prepared for processing in order to meet workplace processing standards.
  • Sawn stones are prepared according to acceptable international processing standards.
  • Makeable stones are prepared according to acceptable international polishing standards.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 5:
  • The tools and equipment are identified and their application explained in terms of their application for processing diamonds.
  • The activities in cutting diamond gemstones for processing are explained and the importance to the process demonstrated in terms of the properties and value of the finished gemstone.
  • Diamond gemstones are set and prepared for cutting in order to meet workplace processing standards.
  • Cutting is carried out according to acceptable international processing standards.
  • Girdle faceting is carried out according to acceptable international processing standards.
  • Rondisting is carried out according to acceptable international processing standards.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 6:
  • The tools and equipment are identified and their application explained in terms of their application for processing diamonds.
  • The activities in polishing bottoms on diamond gemstones are explained and the importance to the process demonstrated in terms of the properties and value of the finished gemstone.
  • Bottoms are polished on diamond gemstones according to acceptable international processing standards.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 7:
  • The tools and equipment are identified and their application explained in terms of their application for processing diamonds.
  • The activities in polishing tops on diamond gemstones are explained and the importance to the process demonstrated in terms of the properties and value of the finished gemstone.
  • Tops are polished on diamond gemstones according to acceptable international processing standards.

    Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 8:
  • The tools and equipment are identified and their application explained in terms of their application for processing diamonds.
  • The activities in blocking and polishing tops and bottoms using automatic machinery is explained and the importance to the process demonstrated in terms of the properties and value of the finished gemstone.
  • Blocking using automatic machinery is carried out to acceptable international processing standards.
  • Polishing using automatic machinery is carried out to acceptable international processing standards.

    Integrated Assessment:

    Integrated assessment at the level of the qualification provides an opportunity for learners to show they are able to integrate concepts, actions and. ideas achieved across a range of unit standards and contexts.

    Integrated assessment must evaluate the quality of observable performance as well as the thinking behind the performance, and must be based on a summative assessment guide. The guide will spell out how the assessor will assess different aspects of the performance and will include:
  • Observing the learner at work (both in the primary activity as well as other interactions).
  • Asking questions and initiating short discussions to test understanding.
  • Looking at records and reports in the portfolio and reviewing previous assessments.

    In some cases interference will be necessary to determine competence depending on the nature and context within which performance takes place.

    It is necessary to ensure that the fundamental part of the qualification is also targeted to ensure that while the competence may have been achieved in a particular context, learners are able to apply it in a range of other contexts and for future learning. The assessment should also ensure that all the critical cross-field outcomes have been achieved.

    The learner may choose in which language s/he wants to be assessed. This should be established as part of a process of preparing the learner for assessment and familiarising the learner with the approach being taken.

    While this is primarily a workplace-based qualification, evidence from other areas of endeavour may be introduced if pertinent to any of the exit-level outcomes. The assessment process should cover both the explicit tasks required for the qualification as well as the understanding of the concepts and principles that underpin the activities associated with processing diamonds. 
    		•

    INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY 
    The search for internationally comparable qualifications indicates that the qualifications developed in South Africa in respect to diamond processing are the only standards of their kind. The diamond industry is a relatively small industry world-wide with a defined channel of trade which provides a close community of people knowledgeable about the industry.

    In seeking to establish whether qualifications in diamond processing exist elsewhere the following channels have been pursued:
  • Contact with established payers in the South African industry, including leading diamond cutting operations, internationally linked gemstone valuators, internationally linked training institutions, and people with many years established connections to De Beers, the leading role-player in the distribution of diamond gemstones in the world.
  • There are established diamond trading centres in the world and the diamond clubs and employer associations from the following countries were contacted with a view to establish comparable qualifications:
    > Austria: World Federation of Diamond Clubs: info@worldfed.com.
    > Belgium: Beurs Voor Diamanthandel: info@diamondbourse.be, Syndikaat Der Belgische Diamantnijverheid (SDB): sdb@sdb.be and HRD Antwerp NV: info@hrd.be.
    > Canada: Canadian Jewellers Institute: cji@canadianjewellers.com.
    > China: Shanghai Diamond Exchange: members@cnsde.com.
    > England: The London Diamond Bourse: Maxime@londonbourse.com.
    > India: Bharat Diamond Bourse: info@bdbindia.org.
    > Israel: Israel Diamond Exchange Ltd: irit@isde.co.il and The Israel Manufacturers Association Ltd: besser@isdma.com.
    > Netherlands: Vereniging Beurs Voor Den Diamonthandel: Diamondbourse. Amsterdam@inter.NL.net and Algemene Juweliersvereniging: royal@asscher.nl.
    > Sri Lanka: Sri Lanka Diamond Manufacturers Association: nigel.austin@nisol.lk.
    > Thailand: Bangkok Diamond and Precious Stones Exchange: bdpe@ksc.th.com and The Thai Diamond Diamond Manufacturers Association: tdma@loxinfo.co.th.
    > USA: New York Diamond Dealers Club: mhochbaum@ddcny.com and Diamond Manufacturers & importers Association of America: wfdiamonds@aol.com.

    These countries were contacted because they are the countries where major diamond processing takes place.

    The enquiries reveal that there are centres that offer qualifications in diamond and gemstone valuation in various countries, but there appears to be no formal qualification for people who process rough diamonds into cut and polished gemstones.

    In South Africa, the diamond processing industry has existed in a formal business environment for over one hundred years. Whilst there has been recognition for journeymen in the various trades, there has been no nationally or internationally recognized qualification for the processing of diamonds at the level of this qualification.

    Qualifications designed in South Africa for the journeymen positions of Sawyer, Bruter, Crossworker and Brillianteer have been assessed as superior to the journeyman trade tests that have existed. The same structure to the qualification at NQF Level 3 has been applied and can be considered to be superior in the application of theory to practical abilities as those that have replaced the journeyman trade tests.

    Feedback from associates of South African training and professional service providers from Belgium and Canada has indicated that the unit standards developed in South Africa are of a high standard. Experienced managers and craftsmen in South Africa with international experience have also indicated that the standard of unit standards that make up this qualification are at a level that is comparable to best practices in countries such as Belgium, Israel, China and India. Sources of this information come from experienced people working with international connections from organisations that include:
  • Diamond Education College: Mr. Teinie Barnes.
  • EGL: Mr. Alan Lowe and Mr. Brian Lyle.
  • Harry Oppenheimer Diamond Training School: Mr. Koos Rademeyer.
  • RosyBlue: Mr. Ravi Samarakone and Mr. Collin Sellwood.
  • Safdico: Mr. Derek Henderson.
  • UASA: Mr. John Leenaerts and Mr. Jan Swanpoel.
  • Vancut Diamond Cutting Works: Mr. Ilan Richer.
  • Zlotowskis Diamond Cutting Works: Mr. Daan Royffe and Mr. Howard Bell.

    Contact has been made with organisations in SADC countries who are also seeking to establish recognition for the same skills as covered by this qualification. Neither Namibia nor Botswana, who are rapidly developing diamond processing skills, have a formal system and the MQA has been approached to establish whether through SADC qualifications developed in South Africa could be used to establish regional standards.

    In conclusion, it appears that South Africa has been the first country to establish formal national qualifications in diamond processing and that no other comparable international qualifications yet exist. 
    		•

    ARTICULATION OPTIONS 
    This qualification allows for both vertical and horizontal articulation.

    Vertical articulation exists with:
  • ID 21845: National Certificate: Diamond Processing: Polisher - Crossworker, NQF Level 4.

    The learner, once equipped with the competencies of this qualification will be positioned to adopt learning in one of the recognised trades of Sawyer, Crossworker, Brillianteer or fancy stone maker. Alternatively the learner may pursue the path of diamond design and examination and ultimately one of supervision and management in the industry.

    Horizontal articulation exists between the five specialisation areas contained in this qualification. 
    		•

    MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • Anyone assessing a learner or moderating the assessment of a learner against the qualification must be registered as an assessor with the relevant Education, Training, Quality, Assurance (ETQA) Body, or with an ETQA that has a Memorandum of Understanding with the relevant ETQA.
  • Any institution offering learning that will enable the achievement of this qualification must be accredited as a provider with the relevant Education, Training, Quality, Assurance (ETQA) Body, or with an ETQA that has a Memorandum of Understanding with the relevant ETQA.
  • Assessment and moderation of assessment will be overseen by the relevant Education, Training, Quality, Assurance (ETQA) Body, or by an ETQA that has a Memorandum of Understanding with the relevant ETQA, according to the ETQA's policies and guidelines for assessment and moderation.
  • Moderation must include both internal and external moderation of assessments, unless ETQA policies specify otherwise. Moderation should also encompass achievement of the competence described in the associated unit standards.
  • Anyone wishing to be assessed against this qualification may apply to be assessed by any assessment agency, assessor or provider institution that is accredited by the relevant ETQA. 
    		•

    CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS 
    Assessors should be in possession of:
  • An appropriate qualification at or above the level of the qualification and preferably relevant workplace practical experience.
  • Registration as an assessor with the relevant ETQA. 
    		•

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2012; 2015. 

    NOTES 
    This qualification replaces qualification 21846, "National Certificate: Diamond Processing Operator", Level 2, 129 credits. 

    UNIT STANDARDS: 
      ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
    Core  116520  Apply safety, health and environmental principles and procedures in a workplace  Level 2  NQF Level 02  2 
    Core  253837  Describe the history of the diamond processing industry  Level 2  NQF Level 02  2 
    Core  253802  Describe the shapes and applications of diamond gemstones  Level 2  NQF Level 02  2 
    Core  253806  Describe the structure of the diamond processing industry  Level 2  NQF Level 02  2 
    Core  253821  Explain the requirements for the security of diamonds  Level 2  NQF Level 02  2 
    Core  253796  Demonstrate a basic understanding of the use of tools and equipment used for processing diamonds  Level 3  NQF Level 03  2 
    Core  253815  Describe process control systems for processing diamond gemstones  Level 3  NQF Level 03  2 
    Core  253855  Understand the characteristics of gem diamonds  Level 3  NQF Level 03  10 
    Core  253817  Use a loupe to examine diamond gemstones  Level 3  NQF Level 03  8 
    Fundamental  119472  Accommodate audience and context needs in oral/signed communication  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Fundamental  9010  Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations  Level 3  NQF Level 03  2 
    Fundamental  9013  Describe, apply, analyse and calculate shape and motion in 2-and 3-dimensional space in different contexts  Level 3  NQF Level 03  4 
    Fundamental  119457  Interpret and use information from texts  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Fundamental  9012  Investigate life and work related problems using data and probabilities  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Fundamental  119467  Use language and communication in occupational learning programmes  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Fundamental  7456  Use mathematics to investigate and monitor the financial aspects of personal, business and national issues  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Fundamental  119465  Write/present/sign texts for a range of communicative contexts  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Elective  120308  Apply knowledge of self in order to make a personal decision  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Elective  253805  Fix diamond gemstones with cement for cutting  Level 2  NQF Level 02  5 
    Elective  253810  Level tangs for polishing diamond gemstones  Level 2  NQF Level 02  2 
    Elective  253811  Prepare a scaiffe for polishing diamond gemstones  Level 2  NQF Level 02  2 
    Elective  253813  Screen diamond gemstones  Level 2  NQF Level 02  5 
    Elective  253801  Set diamond gemstones for polishing using the press pot system  Level 2  NQF Level 02  3 
    Elective  253814  Set up a bench and level a scaiffe for polishing diamond gemstones  Level 2  NQF Level 02  2 
    Elective  13912  Apply knowledge of self and team in order to develop a plan to enhance team performance  Level 3  NQF Level 03  5 
    Elective  253803  Block bottoms on diamond gemstones using automatic machinery  Level 3  NQF Level 03  12 
    Elective  253812  Block tops on diamond gemstones using automatic machinery  Level 3  NQF Level 03  15 
    Elective  253795  Bottom block diamond gemstones  Level 3  NQF Level 03  15 
    Elective  253835  Bottom lap diamond gemstones  Level 3  NQF Level 03  20 
    Elective  253820  Facet the Girdle by machine  Level 3  NQF Level 03  20 
    Elective  253818  Open windows on diamond gemstones  Level 3  NQF Level 03  10 
    Elective  253800  Polish bottom halves on diamond gemstones  Level 3  NQF Level 03  20 
    Elective  253816  Polish bottoms on diamond gemstones using automatic machinery  Level 3  NQF Level 03  15 
    Elective  253834  Polish stars on diamond gemstones  Level 3  NQF Level 03  17 
    Elective  253838  Polish top halves on diamond gemstones  Level 3  NQF Level 03  18 
    Elective  253807  Polish tops on diamond gemstones using automatic machinery  Level 3  NQF Level 03  12 
    Elective  253804  Prepare and polish tables on diamond gemstones  Level 3  NQF Level 03  10 
    Elective  253797  Prepare makeable diamond gemstones for processing  Level 3  NQF Level 03  18 
    Elective  253809  Prepare sawn diamond gemstones for processing  Level 3  NQF Level 03  18 
    Elective  253819  Remove Impurities in Diamond Gemstones through boiling  Level 3  NQF Level 03  4 
    Elective  253799  Rondist diamond gemstones using semi-automatic equipment  Level 3  NQF Level 03  18 
    Elective  253854  Rough cut diamond gemstones using diamond impregnated wheels  Level 3  NQF Level 03  20 
    Elective  253822  Rough cut diamond gemstones using double spindle machinery  Level 3  NQF Level 03  20 
    Elective  253836  Top block diamond gemstones  Level 3  NQF Level 03  10 
    Elective  253798  Top lap diamond gemstones  Level 3  NQF Level 03  20 
    Elective  253794  Describe the process of fabrication for polishing diamond gemstones  Level 4  NQF Level 04  12 
    Elective  253808  Operate adjustable tangs for polishing diamond gemstones  Level 4  NQF Level 04  5 


    LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    When qualifications are replaced, some (but not all) of their learning programmes are moved to the replacement qualifications. If a learning programme appears to be missing from here, please check the replaced qualification.
     
    NONE 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    1. DIAMOND EDUCATION COLLEGE CC 
    2. HARRY OPPENHEIMER DIAMOND TRAINING SCHOOL NPC 
    3. NLP MINERALS COLLEGE 
    4. SOWETO DIAMOND ACADEMY 
    5. THE KIMBERLEY INTERNATIONAL DIAMONDAND JEWELLERY ACADEMY 
    6. ZUREL PRIVATE COLLEGE 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.