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 UNIT STANDARD THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE: 

Grade polished diamond gemstones 
SAQA US ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE
259699  Grade polished diamond gemstones 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Mining and Minerals 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY
-  
FIELD SUBFIELD
Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology Fabrication and Extraction 
ABET BAND UNIT STANDARD TYPE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
Undefined  Regular  Level 4  NQF Level 04  10 
REGISTRATION STATUS REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE SAQA DECISION NUMBER
Passed the End Date -
Status was "Reregistered" 		 2018-07-01  2023-06-30  SAQA 06120/18 
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 unit standard replaces: 
US ID Unit Standard Title Pre-2009 NQF Level NQF Level Credits Replacement Status
110190  Grade polished diamond gemstones  Level 3  NQF Level 03  34   

PURPOSE OF THE UNIT STANDARD 
This unit standard is useful for people who are required to grade polished diamond gemstones.

Learners credited with this unit standard are able to:
  • Identify the systems, equipment and tools used to grade polished diamond gemstones and describe their application.
  • Assess and plot characteristics of polished diamond gemstones.
  • Grade polished diamond gemstones.
  • Conduct post-grading reconciliation, checking and security activities.

    The skills, knowledge and understanding demonstrated within this unit standard are essential for social and economic transformation and contribute to the upliftment and economic growth of the mining and minerals sector, particularly in the aspect of beneficiation.

    This unit standard is intended to promote general skills, knowledge and understanding of processing of diamond gemstones in the mining and minerals sector in order to ensure knowledgeable and informed workers. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    It is assumed that learners are already competent in:
  • History, structure and operations of the diamond processing industry.
  • Requirements for security of diamonds.
  • Use a loupe for advanced applications in examining diamond gemstones.
  • Use laboratory equipment to examine diamond gemstones.
  • Understand the structure, properties and characteristics of diamond gemstones.
  • Measuring proportions of polished diamond gemstones. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD RANGE 
    The scope and context applies to the conversion of rough diamond gemstones into cut and polished diamond gemstones for sale into local and international markets. 

    Specific Outcomes and Assessment Criteria: 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 1 
    Identify the systems, equipment and tools used to grade diamond gemstones and describe their application. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The tools and equipment and their components used to grade diamond gemstones are identified and their use in different applications is explained in terms of key features, applications and methods for use. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Different applications must include the appropriate use of different light sources.
     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The systems of measuring gemstones for grading are described and explained in terms of accuracy, international standing and establishing the potential worth of the polished gemstones. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The rules of plotting diamond gemstones are explained in terms of international conventions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Clarity grades are explained in terms of internationally recognized conventions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    The procedures to be carried out to assess a clarity grade to a diamond gemstone are described and their importance explained in terms of valuation of the diamond and what remedial action could be taken to increase the valuation. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Procedures must include:
  • Cleaning.
  • Illumination.
  • Holding positions.
  • Dirt and dust inclusion.
  • Magnification.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    Practices are explained to maintain housekeeping, security of diamond gemstones, safety in the workplace and care of equipment in line with workplace specific requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
    The consequences of deviating from workplace specific practices are described in terms of potential impact on health, safety, equipment, products and profitability. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 2 
    Assess and plot characteristics of polished diamond gemstones. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The appropriate equipment is selected in order to grade the selected polished diamond gemstones. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The selected equipment is checked to be in good working order, and the relevant light sources assessed in terms of the equipment to be used. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Information relating to the selected diamond gemstones to be graded is collated and its reliability assessed in relation to its source and currency. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The selected polished diamond gemstones are examined and plotted using the appropriate equipment in terms of workplace specific requirements to record their characteristics. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Each gemstone is assessed in terms of its quality and the results are recorded in accordance with workplace specific requirements. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Qualities must include:
  • Colour.
  • Purity.
  • Finish.
  • Imperfections.
     
    		•

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 3 
    Grade polished diamond gemstones. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The information assembled for each selected diamond gemstone is collated in accordance with workplace specific requirements. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Information assembled must include:
  • Plotting.
  • Clarity rating.
  • Colour.
  • Finish.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    A grade is assigned to each selected gemstone based on the assembled information and compared to internationally recognised grading criteria. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The grade is recorded and the gemstone is referred for a second opinion according to workplace specific requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The grading by the second opinion is compared to the original grading and if different, workplace specific procedures are applied to resolve the difference of opinion until a grading is agreed upon. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 4 
    Conduct post-grading reconciliation, checking and security activities. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Graded diamond gemstones are returned to the appropriate storage facility/receptacle and information relating to the features examined is recorded in line with workplace specific requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Graded diamond gemstones are reconciled and accounted for in accordance with workplace specific instructions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Good housekeeping is exercised after examination. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Good housekeeping must include:
  • Clean hands, equipment and accessories.
  • Replace equipment and accessories into correct storage facilities.
  • Calibration of equipment, where necessary, is maintained according to the specifications of the equipment.
  • Diamonds and parcels are secured in the appropriate facilities.
  • Diamond gemstones are accounted for after examination in terms of the workplace security system.
     
    		•


    UNIT STANDARD ACCREDITATION AND MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • Anyone assessing a learner or moderating the assessment of a learner against this unit standard 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 unit standard 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 with 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.
  • Anyone wishing to be assessed against this unit standard may apply to be assessed by any assessment agency, assessor or provider institution that is accredited by the relevant ETQA. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD ESSENTIAL EMBEDDED KNOWLEDGE 
    The following embedded knowledge is addressed in an integrated way in the unit standard.

    Knowledge relating to the application of equipment:
  • Reason for selecting particular equipment for different characteristics.
  • Identification of different critical characteristics in gemstones.
  • Relevant terminology and names of characteristics.
  • Implications of non-conformances, their consequences and mitigating actions.

    Skill in handling diamond gemstones:
  • The ability to locate and rotate a diamond gemstone for grading.
  • Techniques in positioning stones for grading.
  • Ability to determine resultant grading from the assessments of characteristics.

    Safeguarding of equipment:
  • Realising the risk and potential damage that can be caused through poor handling and protection of the equipment.
  • Codes of practice for issue, handling and return of equipment.
  • Upholding the security of diamond gemstones.

    Communication:
  • Reporting requirements and ability.
  • Clearly assessing diamonds and determining grading for further use by others.
  • Communicating ways to improve value to relevant personnel.
  • Liaison with associated operations and personnel. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD DEVELOPMENTAL OUTCOME 
    N/A 

    UNIT STANDARD LINKAGES 
    N/A 


    Critical Cross-field Outcomes (CCFO): 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO IDENTIFYING 
    Identify and solve problems and make decisions using critical and creative thinking.

    Note:
  • The ability of the learner to evaluate different aspects of the properties of the gemstone and to identify ways to increase value requires critical and creative thinking to solve problems. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO WORKING 
    Work effectively with others as members of a team, group, organisation or community.

    Note:
  • The ability of the learner to communicate the outcomes of grading assessment indicates the ability to work effectively as a team member. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO ORGANISING 
    Organise and manage themselves and their activities responsibly and effectively.

    Note:
  • The systematic process of assessing the characteristics of polished diamond gemstones requires the learner to organise and manage activities in the work environment. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COLLECTING 
    Collect, analyse, organise and critically evaluate information.

    Note:
  • The ability of the learner to interpret characteristics for grading indicates the learner's ability to analyse, organise and critically evaluate information. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COMMUNICATING 
    Communicate effectively, using visual, mathematical and/or language skills in the modes of oral and/or written presentations.

    Note:
  • The ability to assimilate the properties and characteristics of the gemstone into a grading indicates the learner's ability to communicate effectively through visual and language skills. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO SCIENCE 
    Use science and technology effectively and critically showing responsibility towards the environment and health of others.

    Note:
  • The application of systems, equipment and techniques to grade the diamond demonstrates the use of science and technology in the processing of information. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO DEMONSTRATING 
    Demonstrate an understanding of the world as a set of related systems by recognising that problem-solving contexts do not exist in isolation.

    Note:
  • The ability of the learner to understand the importance of grading diamonds against internationally recognised standards so that diamonds can be traded in international markets indicates understanding of the interdependent relationship the industry has with other countries and systems. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD ASSESSOR CRITERIA 
    N/A 

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

    UNIT STANDARD NOTES 
    This unit standard replaces unit standard 110190, "Grade polished diamond gemstones", Level 3, 34 credits.

    Terminology:

    Specified Requirements:

    Specified requirements include legal and site-specific requirements and are contained in one or more of the following documents:

    Legal:
  • The Bargaining Council for the Diamond Cutting Industry Main Agreement.
  • Regulations of the Diamonds Act, No 56 of 1986, as amended.
  • The Occupational Health and Safety Act, No 85 of 1993.
  • SABS and other accredited standards and quality assurance measures.
  • The glossary of terms about the terminology of the industry issued by the Bargaining Council for the Diamond Cutting Industry.

    Site-Specific:
  • Workplace rules and procedures regarding the issue and custody of diamonds and equipment.
  • Occupational Health and Safety risk management programme.
  • Managerial Instructions.
  • User manuals supplied by equipment manufacturers.
  • Working Guides, tariff agreements, policies and procedures.
  • Equipment and materials specifications. 
    		•

    QUALIFICATIONS UTILISING THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
      ID QUALIFICATION TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL STATUS END DATE PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QA FUNCTIONARY
    Elective  64249   Further Education and Training Certificate: Diamond Design and Evaluation  Level 4  NQF Level 04  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2023-06-30  MQA 
    Elective  78843   National Certificate: Diamond Processing  Level 5  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L5  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2023-06-30  MQA 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
    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.
     
    NONE 


    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.