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: 

Improve the value of polished diamond gemstones 
SAQA US ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE
376780  Improve the value of polished diamond gemstones 
ORIGINATOR
Task Team - Fabrication and Extraction 
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 6  Level TBA: Pre-2009 was L6  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
2024-06-30   2026-06-30  

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
110226  Value polished diamond gemstones  Level 4  NQF Level 04  6   

PURPOSE OF THE UNIT STANDARD 
This unit standard is useful for learners to examine polished diamond gemstones and improve their value.

Learners credited with this unit standard are able to:
  • Identify the qualities of polished diamond gemstones.
  • Recommend ways to improve the qualities of diamond gemstones.
  • Price polished diamond gemstones.
  • Conduct post valuing activities. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    It is assumed that learners understand:
  • The history, structure and operations of the diamond processing industry.
  • The requirements for security of diamonds.
  • The structure, properties and characteristics of diamond gemstones.
  • The processes for polishing diamond gemstones.

    It is assumed that learners are competent in:
  • Using a loupe for advanced applications in examining diamond gemstones.
  • Using laboratory equipment to examine diamond gemstones.
  • Measuring proportions of polished diamond gemstones.
  • Grading 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 qualities of polished diamond gemstones. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The qualities of polished diamond gemstones are described and recorded accurately. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Qualities must include:
  • Weight.
  • Diameter.
  • Depth.
  • Crown height.
  • Pavilion depth.
  • Girdle.
  • Table percentage.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The critical proportions of the diamond gemstone are calculated and recorded. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The proportions of the diamond gemstone are categorised according to international trading standards and comments are recorded. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Faults in proportions are identified in round brilliant diamond gemstones. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Comments are made regarding the qualities of fancy cut diamond gemstones. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 2 
    Recommend ways to improve the qualities of diamond gemstones. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The qualities of polished diamond gemstones that can be improved are recorded. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The methods to improve the qualities of polished gemstones are described in terms of practicality and risks are explained. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Potential remedial treatment of diamond gemstones is explained in order to increase the value of the diamond. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The effects of improving diamond gemstones by removing imperfections are explained in terms of potential increase in value. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 3 
    Price polished diamond gemstones. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The sources of valuations of graded diamond gemstones are described and their standing in the industry explained in terms of acceptability. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The qualities of a polished diamond gemstone that influence its valuation are explained in terms of proportion, colour, purity, weight and finish. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The potential value of a graded diamond gemstone is determined with reference to international pricing standards. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 4 
    Conduct post valuing activities. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Evaluated diamond gemstones are certificated according to workplace specific practices. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Evaluated diamond gemstones are placed in the appropriate storage facility in accordance with workplace specific requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Good housekeeping is exercised after valuing. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Good housekeeping must include:
  • Collection and storage of polished diamond gemstones to be kept secure and protected from handling.
  • Clean hands and equipment are maintained throughout the grading process.
  • Replace equipment and accessories into correct storage facilities.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Diamond gemstones are accounted for after valuation 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 and valuing.
  • Ability to determine resultant valuation from the assessments of characteristics and internationally recognised price lists.

    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 valuation.
  • 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:
  • 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:
  • The ability of the learner to communicate the outcomes of valuation 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:
  • 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:
  • The ability of the learner to interpret characteristics for valuing 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:
  • The ability to assimilate the properties and characteristics of the gemstone into a valuation 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:
  • The application of systems, equipment and techniques to value 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:
  • The ability of the learner to understand the importance of valuing 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 110226, "Value polished diamond gemstones", Level 4, 6 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  78966   National Certificate: Diamond Design and Evaluation  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.