The CanadaMark hallmark program is an initiative launched by the Dominion Diamond Corporation. A diamond that completes this process is referred to as a CanadaMark diamond. The program aims to guarantee the integrity of Canadian diamond supply chains, covering every aspect from mining to retailing.

In short: CanadaMark is a certification program tracking diamonds mined in Canada's Northwest Territories through cutting and polishing — each stone carries a unique tracking number laser-inscribed on the girdle. The program covers Diavik and Ekati mines, both audited for environmental and labor standards. CanadaMark stones typically command a 3-7% premium over comparable non-traced natural diamonds and ship with conflict-free buyer assurance.

Once a diamond is verified through the program, it receives a unique serial number. This serial number, along with the polished diamond weight, can be used to authenticate and verify the diamond using the CanadaMark™ and the diamond certificate card.

To be approved as a member of the CanadaMark ethical supply chain, a manufacturer must undergo an audit by an independent third party. This audit analyzes every stage of the procedures, tracking progress from the mine to the polished and retail-ready stage. A certified manufacturer may promote this fact.

In addition to the manufacturer’s verified status, every CanadaMark diamond receives a certificate card featuring a unique identification number. Buyers can check this number against the CanadaMark™ for immediate authentication. The card includes information on the tracking system, technical characteristics, and origin of the diamond. All this data must be provided by the manufacturer before a certificate card is awarded. All valid cards will have both the CanadaMark logo and the identification number laser-inscribed.

The serial number and weight of each Canada diamond are stored in the system for access at any time. Whether for reassurance over quality or to prove ownership, it is a very useful program.

Canadian diamonds were formed over one billion years ago and can be found deep underground in the Northwest Territories, a region of barren land and remote areas located just a few hundred kilometers from the Arctic Circle. The Diavik mine, one of two mines cited as CanadaMark’s starting point, is the most significant mine for carat production in Canada.

Interestingly, it wasn’t until 1991 that diamonds were discovered in the region by geologists Chuck Fipke and Stewart Blusson. The discovery was followed by intensive environmental assessments and permitting at both sites. Due to the vital role that the Northwest Territories play in daily life and Aboriginal traditions in the region, an emphasis was placed on the integrity of wildlife, water, and land.

The protection of wildlife in the Lac de Gras region has influenced both of Canada’s primary mines, ensuring ethical diamond mining built in coordination and cooperation with the local Aboriginal communities. It has enabled Canadian miners to benefit from the region’s rich landscape while conserving the environment through agreeable strategies, processes, and technologies. The two mines also support local companies while involving both territorial and federal governments. The ethical works over the past three decades have subsequently supported the local economy of the Northwest Territories, as well as the diamond industry and its consumers.

When Canadian diamonds are supported by a verified CanadaMark card and identification number, confirmed by the laser logo, they are 100% certified to have been sourced ethically. Furthermore, it means that the diamond is 100% natural and has not undergone any treatments such as HPHT (high pressure and high temperature), color alterations, or fracture-filled inclusions masking. Similarly, they will not have been laser treated to remove inclusions.

All Canadian diamonds featuring the CanadaMark logo assure quality while also meeting symmetry, finish, clarity, and color standards. In short, CanadaMark plays a key role in maintaining a healthy supply chain while simultaneously protecting the region and delivering the best results for retailers, jewelers, and consumers alike.

CanadaMark laser inscription number on the additional grading information section on your GIA grading report