The American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) has announced a significant alteration to its Code of Ethics, now requiring its members to categorize manufactured gemstones exclusively as “synthetic.” This policy update effectively removes the independent use of “lab-grown” when disclosing information about man-made gems. This revised mandate underscores AGTA's ongoing dedication to promoting natural colored gemstones while establishing a clear and consistent lexicon for describing their synthetic counterparts. The directive, which was formally endorsed by AGTA’s board of directors in June 2026, stipulates that any material created by human intervention, possessing identical chemical, crystalline, physical, and optical characteristics to its naturally occurring equivalent, must be labeled as “synthetic.” Jewelers can combine this term with the gem's name, such as “synthetic ruby,” to ensure consumer clarity.

Bruce Bridges, the current President of AGTA, highlighted that this newly implemented standard serves to reaffirm the association’s foundational commitment to natural colored gemstones. He emphasized that the directive provides a precise and uniform vocabulary for members when discussing synthetic stones, thereby reducing potential ambiguity in the market. This terminology shift coincides with the introduction of the 17th edition of AGTA’s Gemstone Information Manual. This updated manual incorporates new symbols for gem enhancements and provides revised guidelines concerning gemstone treatments and proper care, reflecting the evolving landscape of the gemological industry. Furthermore, it is important to note that AGTA has maintained a strict stance against the display of lab-grown diamonds and gemstones at its trade shows since 2024, reinforcing its core focus on natural materials.

This strategic move by AGTA mirrors a similar decision made by CIBJO, the World Jewellery Confederation. Last month, CIBJO declared its intention to discontinue the terms “laboratory grown” and “laboratory created” in its Gemstone Blue Book, effective from September, opting instead for “synthetic” as its singular approved descriptor. This parallel alignment between leading industry bodies signifies a broader push towards standardization and clarity within the global gemstone trade. Such unified terminology is anticipated to enhance consumer confidence and provide a more transparent market for both natural and synthetic gemstones. The consistent application of “synthetic” across the industry aims to clearly differentiate between naturally occurring gems and those produced in a laboratory setting, ensuring that consumers are well-informed about their purchases.

The proactive update in AGTA’s disclosure policies and its alignment with other major industry organizations like CIBJO indicate a concerted effort to foster greater transparency and consistency in the gemstone market. By standardizing the terminology for man-made gems, AGTA reinforces its commitment to integrity and consumer education, ensuring that members provide precise and unambiguous descriptions of their products. This commitment to clear labeling not only supports the natural gemstone sector but also establishes a more structured framework for the growing category of synthetic materials, benefiting both traders and end-users alike.