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Due to the high price of diamonds, there are many synthetics manufactured, or doublets, which are made with the top half of the stone being diamond, and the bottom being rock crystal or glass. In my opinion, when purchasing anything of value, one should have a little bit of knowledge, and, especially in this day and age, make sure you buy from a reputable jeweller or diamond merchant, and definitely have assurance or proof that they are not conflict diamonds. If a stone is larger than a quarter carat, 0,25ct, you can insist on a certificate of authenticity. “Smalls” as they are known, are usually sold in parcels, and it would be unusual for each and everyone to be certified. However if you purchased a piece with many smalls, you could ask for a valuation certificate specifying what the piece is made up of. The Jeweller should be a member of the South African Jewellery Association.  This affords you the peace of mind that they have to adhere to basic honest rules of conduct in terms of running their business and that they are not selling you conflict diamonds.