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: 

Inscribe polished diamond gemstones by laser 
SAQA US ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE
260419  Inscribe polished diamond gemstones by laser 
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  12 
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
110227  Inscribe polished diamond gemstones by laser  Level 3  NQF Level 03  22   

PURPOSE OF THE UNIT STANDARD 
This unit standard is useful for people who intend following a career in the diamond processing sector and who are required to inscribe diamond gemstones by laser.

Learners credited with this unit standard are able to:
  • Identify the equipment and tools used to inscribe diamond gemstones by laser and describe their application.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of the methodology of laser inscription on diamond gemstones and the implications of use of the laser.
  • Prepare to carry out laser inscription on diamond gemstones.
  • Perform laser inscription on diamond gemstones.
  • Conduct post-laser-inscription cleaning, 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 the diamond processing industry 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:
  • Advanced use of a loupe to examine a diamond gemstone.
  • Explain the requirements for security of diamonds. 
    		•

    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.

    This unit standard applies to persons operating laser inscription on any type of polished diamond gemstones under minimal supervision. 

    Specific Outcomes and Assessment Criteria: 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 1 
    Identify the equipment and tools used to inscribe diamond gemstones by laser and describe their application. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The tools and their components used for inscribing diamond gemstones by laser are identified and their use in different applications is explained in terms of key features, applications and methods for use. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The process for laser inscription of diamond gemstones is explained in terms of the properties of diamonds and the effect of using lasers to inscribe diamond gemstones. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The application of laser beams for inscription is described in terms of beam widths and methodology applied. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Practices are explained to maintain good housekeeping, safety in the workplace and care of equipment in line with workplace specific requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    The consequences of deviating from workplace specific practices are described in terms of potential impact on health, safety, equipment, products and productivity. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 2 
    Demonstrate knowledge of the methodology of laser inscription on diamond gemstones and the implications of use of the laser. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The requirements of the working environment are explained in terms of safe operation of the equipment, reliability of the inscription and protection of the diamond gemstones. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The systems used to obtain authorisation of inscriptions are described and the requirements to preserve authenticity of identification marks are explained in terms of accuracy and establishing the right to use the marks. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Identification marks include the use of:
  • Logos.
  • Trade marks.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The criteria for selection of the appropriate surface on the diamond gemstone are explained in terms of size of inscription, potential damage to the gemstone and authorisation to proceed. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Advanced laser inscription hints and techniques are explained in terms of different applications and the consequences of using inappropriate laser inscription techniques. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 3 
    Prepare to carry out laser inscription on diamond gemstones. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Appropriate personal protective clothing and equipment is selected and applied according to required standards of occupational health and safety. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The inscription instructions are authorised according to workplace specific procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The inscription is captured and checked for suitability for inscription according to laid down inscription criteria. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The laser inscription equipment is calibrated according to specified requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    The laser inscription equipment is checked to ensure it is clean and ready for use. Any problems encountered are dealt with in terms of workplace specific procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    The ink source is prepared according to specified requirements within particular working environment conditions. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    The working environment conditions must include:
  • Temperature.
  • Light source.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
    Stones received for inscription are checked and are located in the inscription equipment according to specified requirements. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 4 
    Perform laser inscription on diamond gemstones. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Appropriate eye protection and other personal protective equipment is worn in accordance with manufacturer specifications. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The diamond gemstone is focussed in the equipment and the dimensions of the stone are programmed into the machine in accordance with the parcel instructions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The potential surfaces for inscription are examined for suitability. The surface selected is appropriate in terms of imperfections, size of inscription and inscription instructions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Where imperfections have the potential to damage the gemstone, remedial action is taken in terms of workplace specific instructions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    The client is informed of the risk and permission to proceed is acquired in accordance with workplace procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    The intensity of the laser beam is set according to the workplace specific instructions, the nature of the inscription and the diamond gemstone. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
    Laser inscription is carried out in accordance with specific requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 8 
    Safety precautions are executed in accordance with workplace specific procedures. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 5 
    Conduct post-laser inscription cleaning, checking and security activities. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The diamond gemstone is cleaned and the inscription inspected before removal from the equipment. Remedial action required is taken in line with workplace specific procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The inscribed diamond gemstone is removed from the equipment and placed in the parcel for further processing in accordance with workplace specific procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Housekeeping is exercised after laser inscription in accordance with workplace procedures. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Good housekeeping must include:
  • Collection and storage of diamond gemstones to be kept secure and protected from handling.
  • Clean hands and equipment are maintained throughout the inscription process.
  • Replace equipment and accessories into correct storage facilities.
  • Maintenance of personal protective clothing and equipment.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Diamond gemstones are accounted for after laser inscription in accordance with 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 properties of a diamond gemstone:
  • Understanding the various properties of the diamond and the effect that incorrect laser applications can have.
  • Importance of diamonds being located properly in the equipment and the implication of wrong setting.
  • Awareness of the damage to a diamond that can be caused by use of incorrect laser beam techniques.

    Occupational Health, Safety and Environmental issues:
  • Significant hazards and risks related to gemstone processing, their consequences and mitigating actions.
  • Safety measures related to diamond processing.
  • PPE requirements and the reason for each.
  • Impact on the environment and mitigating actions.
  • Emergency procedures.

    Legislative and structural environment:
  • Importance of adherence to health and safety requirements during processing.
  • Importance of care and maintenance of tools and equipment.
  • Codes of practice.

    Communication:
  • Reporting requirements and ability.
  • Communicating with relevant personnel.
  • Liaison between personnel in various functions.

    Handling and custody of diamond gemstones:
  • Achieving specified production requirements.
  • Identify the equipment and explain the specification and functions.
  • Preparation.
  • Examination.
  • Handling of diamond gemstones.
  • Monitoring and control.

    Monitoring processing and impurities:
  • Security requirements.
  • Collection and disposal of diamond dust.
  • Use of tools and equipment.
  • Use of personal protective equipment. 
    		•

    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 to examine the girdle to determine the area for inscription and set laser beams at appropriate intensity and to take remedial action when the examination of the gemstone indicates potential problems indicates the problem solving ability. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO WORKING 
    Work effectively with others as a member of a team/group/organisation/community.

    Note:
  • The ability and willingness to accept and interpret work instructions correctly and to know when to refer issues to the appropriate colleagues in an acceptable manner indicates the ability to work effectively as a team member within the structure of the organisation. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO ORGANISING 
    Organise and manage oneself and one's activities responsibly and effectively.

    Note:
  • The preparation of laser inscription through examination and checking and the complying with good housekeeping practices indicates the ability to organise and manage activities in the work environment. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COLLECTING 
    Collect, organise and evaluate information.

    Note:
  • The ability to assimilate instructions and determine the appropriate laser inscription location indicates the ability to collect, organise and evaluate information. 
    		•

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

    Note:

    The ability to select the correct location for laser inscription and apply the appropriate intensity of beam demonstrates the critical use of science and technology in the safeguarding of the material, the environment, fellow workers and oneself. 

    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 110227, "Inscribe polished diamond gemstones by laser", Level 3, 22 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.
  • Occupational Health and Safety Act (Act 85/1993).
  • Mandatory Codes of Practice.
  • The glossary of terms about the terminology of the industry issued by the Bargaining Council for the Diamond Cutting Industry.

    Site-Specific:
  • Hazard Identification and Risk Assessments (HIRA).
  • Occupational Health and Safety Risk Management Programme.
  • Managerial Instructions.
  • Workplace diamond gemstone security system.
  • 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  64729   Further Education and Training Certificate: Diamond Processing  Level 4  NQF Level 04  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.