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 QUALIFICATION THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE: |
National Certificate: Diamond Processing |
SAQA QUAL ID | QUALIFICATION TITLE | |||
59851 | National Certificate: Diamond Processing | |||
ORIGINATOR | ||||
SGB Mining and Minerals | ||||
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY | NQF SUB-FRAMEWORK | |||
MQA - Mining Qualifications Authority | OQSF - Occupational Qualifications Sub-framework | |||
QUALIFICATION TYPE | FIELD | SUBFIELD | ||
National Certificate | Field 06 - Manufacturing, Engineering and Technology | Fabrication and Extraction | ||
ABET BAND | MINIMUM CREDITS | PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL | NQF LEVEL | QUAL CLASS |
Undefined | 150 | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | Regular-Unit Stds Based |
REGISTRATION STATUS | SAQA DECISION NUMBER | REGISTRATION START DATE | REGISTRATION END DATE | |
Passed the End Date - Status was "Reregistered" |
SAQA 9999/99 | 2018-07-01 | 2023-06-30 | |
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 qualification replaces: |
Qual ID | Qualification Title | Pre-2009 NQF Level | NQF Level | Min Credits | Replacement Status |
21846 | National Certificate: Diamond Processing Operator | Level 2 | NQF Level 02 | 129 | Complete |
PURPOSE AND RATIONALE OF THE QUALIFICATION |
Purpose:
This qualification will equip qualifying learners with the necessary knowledge, understanding and competence to process diamond gemstones to internationally recognised standards. It is aimed at people who work or intend to work within the diamond processing industry and who seek recognition for skills in processing diamond gemstones. Recipients of this qualification know about and are able to process rough diamond gemstones into cut and polished diamond gemstones for sale into local and international markets. The ability of the industry to develop its potential in the beneficiation of raw materials is dependent upon the development of processing skills to provide the platform for expansion of the industry and to have a base of skilled workers to feed the more skilled occupations of Crossworkers, Brillianteers, Bruters, Parters and Fancy Stone Makers. The qualification is designed to be flexible and accessible so that people are able to consistently demonstrate the competencies required to work safely and effectively in processing diamond gemstones. The understanding of the role of the diamond processing sector in terms of the jewellery manufacturing and diamond distribution system will be understood as well as the importance of their role in the distribution chain. The candidate can select the stream they wish to specialize in: Qualified learners will, subject to the elected stream, be able to: This qualification introduces an understanding of the processing of rough diamonds into cut and polished diamond gemstones which falls in the sub-field Fabrication and Extraction. It will enable learners to be informed workers in the Industry. It provides a balanced learning experience that allows flexible access to life long learning in further or higher education and productive employment in the diamond processing industry. Rationale: The processing of diamonds is not a mechanical process, but one which requires understanding of the nature and structure of the diamond crystal, how the processing reveals the qualities of the gemstone and how impurities can affect the ultimate value of the gemstone. The need for this qualification was identified by a number of means: This qualification is a revision of the previous National Certificate Diamond Processing Operator (NLRD 21846) registered with SAQA. Changes are incorporated as a result of practical implementation within the sector and reflect the drive towards continual improvement. The National Certificate: Diamond Processing is designed to meet the needs of learners in or entering into the diamond processing industry as well as the needs of employers wishing to promote recognized levels of competence in the workforce. Previously workers were trained and developed using informal methods. The associated status of a nationally recognised qualification will serve as a motivation for high-level learners to enter the career of diamond processing. Current process operators, particularly, will benefit from the opportunities of assessment and subsequent recognition presented by RPL (Recognition of Prior Learning). It is a key qualification that allows for mobility and portability within the diamond processing sector. It is a step towards obtaining a range of qualifications in diamond processing for learners who: This qualification will also provide entrants to the industry with a structured framework to develop a measured career path within the diamond processing industry. The majority of the candidates for this qualification are likely to be working in the diamond processing industry already. The qualification will give them the opportunity to have their skills recognised as the previous practice only accorded recognition at journeyman level. This qualification would provide a launching pad for development into diamond polishing qualifications at higher levels. There is a critical need in the industry to convert experienced personnel into qualified practitioners to raise the credibility of the industry and to enhance South Africa's reputation as a centre for diamond processing. This qualification would provide experienced, but unrecognised people in the industry an opportunity to establish their skills for further development. The intention is: The National Certificate: Diamond Processing will produce knowledgeable workers who are able to contribute to improved productivity within the diamond processing industry. It should provide the means for current workers to receive recognition of prior learning. The qualification is structured in a way that exposes learners to the different aspects of diamond processing. It is anticipated that this qualification will promote the notion of lifelong learning by encouraging entrants to the industry and existing participants to seek recognition for and develop their skills. This is the first qualification in a learning pathway for Diamond Processing. Typical learning pathways for learners who acquire this qualification could be to enhance processing skills towards the NQF Level 4 qualification and the trades of Crossworker, Brillianteer, Bruter, Parting and Fancy Stone Maker. This qualification will also provide a foundation for learners wishing to advance to the related qualifications of diamond design and evaluation, examination or support services. For some learners progression into Supervisory Management and Leadership competencies will create the opportunity to assume managerial responsibilities in the workplace. The qualification is designed to be flexible and accessible so that people are able to demonstrate the competencies in diamond processing across the jewellery manufacturing sector of the mining and minerals sector. Qualifying learners will be appointed as Processors according to the elected stream, controlling the complete diamond processing activity by means of technologically advanced processes to create cut and polished diamond gemstones; for sale into local or international markets. |
LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING |
It is assumed that candidates embarking on learning towards this qualification are already competent in:
Recognition of Prior Learning: This qualification can be obtained by completing all the required unit standards in a structured learning programme, or through recognition of prior learning (RPL). The criteria for RPL would need to be in line with the MQA's ETQA requirements. Evidence can be presented in a variety of forms, including international or previous local qualifications, reports, testimonials mentioning functions performed, work records, portfolios, videos of practice and performance records. All such evidence would be judged according to the general principles of assessment. Access to the Qualification: Access is open; however it is preferable that learners have completed the GETC: Mining and Mineral Processes. (Diamond processing stream). |
RECOGNISE PREVIOUS LEARNING? |
Y |
QUALIFICATION RULES |
Fundamentals:
Core: Electives: There are five specialisations possible: A: Preparation. B: Cutting. C: Bottom Polishing. D: Top Polishing. E: Automatic Polishing. For Specialization area A: Preparation, the following unit standards (72 credits) are to be achieved: Title; Level; Credits: Total = 72 credits. A further 10 credits are to be chosen from the rest of the electives to make up a minimum of 150 credits for the qualification. For Specialization area B: Cutting, the following unit standards (63 credits) are to be achieved: Title; Level; Credits: Total = 63 credits. A further 19 credits are to be chosen from the rest of the electives to make up a minimum of 150 credits for the qualification. For Specialization area C: Bottom Polishing, the following unit standards (74 credits) are to be achieved: Title; Level; Credits: Total = 74. A further 8 credits are to be chosen from the rest of the electives to make up a minimum of 150 credits for the qualification. For Specialization area D: Top Polishing, the following unit standards (74 credits) are to be achieved: Title; Level; Credits: Total = 74 credits. A further 8 credits are to be chosen from the rest of the electives to make up a minimum of 150 credits for the qualification. For Specialization area E: Automatic Polishing, the following unit standards (65 credits) are to be achieved: Title; Level; Credits: Total = 65 credits. A further 17 credits are to be chosen from the rest of the electives to make up a minimum of 150 credits for the qualification. |
EXIT LEVEL OUTCOMES |
1. Communicate and solve problems by applying mathematical practical applications in a variety of ways.
2. Adhere to occupational health, safety and environmental standards in the workplace. 3. Describe the shapes and characteristics of diamond gemstones. 4. Prepare diamond gemstones for processing. OR 5. Cut diamond gemstones for processing. OR 6. Polish bottoms on diamond gemstones. OR 7. Polish tops on diamond gemstones. OR 8. Polish diamond gemstones using automatic equipment. Range: Automatic equipment refers to: > Multi-headed blocking machines. > Multi-headed polishing machines. Consistency of Exit Level Outcomes with Critical Cross-field Outcomes: The following CCFO's have been addressed in this qualification as per the unit standards outlined in the Annexure. Critical Cross-Field Outcomes: > Evident in all Exit Level Outcomes. > Evident in all Exit Level Outcomes. > Evident in Exit Level Outcome's 1, 4, 5, 6 ,7, 8. > Evident in all Exit Level Outcomes. > Evident in all Exit Level Outcomes. > Evident in all Exit Level Outcomes. > Evident in all Exit Level Outcomes. |
ASSOCIATED ASSESSMENT CRITERIA |
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 1:
Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 2: Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 3: Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 4: Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 5: Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 6: Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 7: Associated Assessment Criteria for Exit Level Outcomes 8: Integrated Assessment: Integrated assessment at the level of the qualification provides an opportunity for learners to show they are able to integrate concepts, actions and. ideas achieved across a range of unit standards and contexts. Integrated assessment must evaluate the quality of observable performance as well as the thinking behind the performance, and must be based on a summative assessment guide. The guide will spell out how the assessor will assess different aspects of the performance and will include: In some cases interference will be necessary to determine competence depending on the nature and context within which performance takes place. It is necessary to ensure that the fundamental part of the qualification is also targeted to ensure that while the competence may have been achieved in a particular context, learners are able to apply it in a range of other contexts and for future learning. The assessment should also ensure that all the critical cross-field outcomes have been achieved. The learner may choose in which language s/he wants to be assessed. This should be established as part of a process of preparing the learner for assessment and familiarising the learner with the approach being taken. While this is primarily a workplace-based qualification, evidence from other areas of endeavour may be introduced if pertinent to any of the exit-level outcomes. The assessment process should cover both the explicit tasks required for the qualification as well as the understanding of the concepts and principles that underpin the activities associated with processing diamonds. |
INTERNATIONAL COMPARABILITY |
The search for internationally comparable qualifications indicates that the qualifications developed in South Africa in respect to diamond processing are the only standards of their kind. The diamond industry is a relatively small industry world-wide with a defined channel of trade which provides a close community of people knowledgeable about the industry.
In seeking to establish whether qualifications in diamond processing exist elsewhere the following channels have been pursued: > Austria: World Federation of Diamond Clubs: info@worldfed.com. > Belgium: Beurs Voor Diamanthandel: info@diamondbourse.be, Syndikaat Der Belgische Diamantnijverheid (SDB): sdb@sdb.be and HRD Antwerp NV: info@hrd.be. > Canada: Canadian Jewellers Institute: cji@canadianjewellers.com. > China: Shanghai Diamond Exchange: members@cnsde.com. > England: The London Diamond Bourse: Maxime@londonbourse.com. > India: Bharat Diamond Bourse: info@bdbindia.org. > Israel: Israel Diamond Exchange Ltd: irit@isde.co.il and The Israel Manufacturers Association Ltd: besser@isdma.com. > Netherlands: Vereniging Beurs Voor Den Diamonthandel: Diamondbourse. Amsterdam@inter.NL.net and Algemene Juweliersvereniging: royal@asscher.nl. > Sri Lanka: Sri Lanka Diamond Manufacturers Association: nigel.austin@nisol.lk. > Thailand: Bangkok Diamond and Precious Stones Exchange: bdpe@ksc.th.com and The Thai Diamond Diamond Manufacturers Association: tdma@loxinfo.co.th. > USA: New York Diamond Dealers Club: mhochbaum@ddcny.com and Diamond Manufacturers & importers Association of America: wfdiamonds@aol.com. These countries were contacted because they are the countries where major diamond processing takes place. The enquiries reveal that there are centres that offer qualifications in diamond and gemstone valuation in various countries, but there appears to be no formal qualification for people who process rough diamonds into cut and polished gemstones. In South Africa, the diamond processing industry has existed in a formal business environment for over one hundred years. Whilst there has been recognition for journeymen in the various trades, there has been no nationally or internationally recognized qualification for the processing of diamonds at the level of this qualification. Qualifications designed in South Africa for the journeymen positions of Sawyer, Bruter, Crossworker and Brillianteer have been assessed as superior to the journeyman trade tests that have existed. The same structure to the qualification at NQF Level 3 has been applied and can be considered to be superior in the application of theory to practical abilities as those that have replaced the journeyman trade tests. Feedback from associates of South African training and professional service providers from Belgium and Canada has indicated that the unit standards developed in South Africa are of a high standard. Experienced managers and craftsmen in South Africa with international experience have also indicated that the standard of unit standards that make up this qualification are at a level that is comparable to best practices in countries such as Belgium, Israel, China and India. Sources of this information come from experienced people working with international connections from organisations that include: Contact has been made with organisations in SADC countries who are also seeking to establish recognition for the same skills as covered by this qualification. Neither Namibia nor Botswana, who are rapidly developing diamond processing skills, have a formal system and the MQA has been approached to establish whether through SADC qualifications developed in South Africa could be used to establish regional standards. In conclusion, it appears that South Africa has been the first country to establish formal national qualifications in diamond processing and that no other comparable international qualifications yet exist. |
ARTICULATION OPTIONS |
This qualification allows for both vertical and horizontal articulation.
Vertical articulation exists with: The learner, once equipped with the competencies of this qualification will be positioned to adopt learning in one of the recognised trades of Sawyer, Crossworker, Brillianteer or fancy stone maker. Alternatively the learner may pursue the path of diamond design and examination and ultimately one of supervision and management in the industry. Horizontal articulation exists between the five specialisation areas contained in this qualification. |
MODERATION OPTIONS |
CRITERIA FOR THE REGISTRATION OF ASSESSORS |
Assessors should be in possession of:
|
REREGISTRATION HISTORY |
As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this qualification was Reregistered in 2012; 2015. |
NOTES |
This qualification replaces qualification 21846, "National Certificate: Diamond Processing Operator", Level 2, 129 credits. |
UNIT STANDARDS: |
ID | UNIT STANDARD TITLE | PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL | NQF LEVEL | CREDITS | |
Core | 116520 | Apply safety, health and environmental principles and procedures in a workplace | Level 2 | NQF Level 02 | 2 |
Core | 253837 | Describe the history of the diamond processing industry | Level 2 | NQF Level 02 | 2 |
Core | 253802 | Describe the shapes and applications of diamond gemstones | Level 2 | NQF Level 02 | 2 |
Core | 253806 | Describe the structure of the diamond processing industry | Level 2 | NQF Level 02 | 2 |
Core | 253821 | Explain the requirements for the security of diamonds | Level 2 | NQF Level 02 | 2 |
Core | 253796 | Demonstrate a basic understanding of the use of tools and equipment used for processing diamonds | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 2 |
Core | 253815 | Describe process control systems for processing diamond gemstones | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 2 |
Core | 253855 | Understand the characteristics of gem diamonds | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 10 |
Core | 253817 | Use a loupe to examine diamond gemstones | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 8 |
Fundamental | 119472 | Accommodate audience and context needs in oral/signed communication | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 5 |
Fundamental | 9010 | Demonstrate an understanding of the use of different number bases and measurement units and an awareness of error in the context of relevant calculations | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 2 |
Fundamental | 9013 | Describe, apply, analyse and calculate shape and motion in 2-and 3-dimensional space in different contexts | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 4 |
Fundamental | 119457 | Interpret and use information from texts | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 5 |
Fundamental | 9012 | Investigate life and work related problems using data and probabilities | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 5 |
Fundamental | 119467 | Use language and communication in occupational learning programmes | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 5 |
Fundamental | 7456 | Use mathematics to investigate and monitor the financial aspects of personal, business and national issues | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 5 |
Fundamental | 119465 | Write/present/sign texts for a range of communicative contexts | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 5 |
Elective | 120308 | Apply knowledge of self in order to make a personal decision | Level 2 | NQF Level 02 | 3 |
Elective | 253805 | Fix diamond gemstones with cement for cutting | Level 2 | NQF Level 02 | 5 |
Elective | 253810 | Level tangs for polishing diamond gemstones | Level 2 | NQF Level 02 | 2 |
Elective | 253811 | Prepare a scaiffe for polishing diamond gemstones | Level 2 | NQF Level 02 | 2 |
Elective | 253813 | Screen diamond gemstones | Level 2 | NQF Level 02 | 5 |
Elective | 253801 | Set diamond gemstones for polishing using the press pot system | Level 2 | NQF Level 02 | 3 |
Elective | 253814 | Set up a bench and level a scaiffe for polishing diamond gemstones | Level 2 | NQF Level 02 | 2 |
Elective | 13912 | Apply knowledge of self and team in order to develop a plan to enhance team performance | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 5 |
Elective | 253803 | Block bottoms on diamond gemstones using automatic machinery | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 12 |
Elective | 253812 | Block tops on diamond gemstones using automatic machinery | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 15 |
Elective | 253795 | Bottom block diamond gemstones | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 15 |
Elective | 253835 | Bottom lap diamond gemstones | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 20 |
Elective | 253820 | Facet the Girdle by machine | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 20 |
Elective | 253818 | Open windows on diamond gemstones | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 10 |
Elective | 253800 | Polish bottom halves on diamond gemstones | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 20 |
Elective | 253816 | Polish bottoms on diamond gemstones using automatic machinery | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 15 |
Elective | 253834 | Polish stars on diamond gemstones | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 17 |
Elective | 253838 | Polish top halves on diamond gemstones | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 18 |
Elective | 253807 | Polish tops on diamond gemstones using automatic machinery | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 12 |
Elective | 253804 | Prepare and polish tables on diamond gemstones | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 10 |
Elective | 253797 | Prepare makeable diamond gemstones for processing | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 18 |
Elective | 253809 | Prepare sawn diamond gemstones for processing | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 18 |
Elective | 253819 | Remove Impurities in Diamond Gemstones through boiling | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 4 |
Elective | 253799 | Rondist diamond gemstones using semi-automatic equipment | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 18 |
Elective | 253854 | Rough cut diamond gemstones using diamond impregnated wheels | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 20 |
Elective | 253822 | Rough cut diamond gemstones using double spindle machinery | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 20 |
Elective | 253836 | Top block diamond gemstones | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 10 |
Elective | 253798 | Top lap diamond gemstones | Level 3 | NQF Level 03 | 20 |
Elective | 253794 | Describe the process of fabrication for polishing diamond gemstones | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 12 |
Elective | 253808 | Operate adjustable tangs for polishing diamond gemstones | Level 4 | NQF Level 04 | 5 |
LEARNING PROGRAMMES RECORDED AGAINST THIS QUALIFICATION: |
When qualifications are replaced, some (but not all) of their learning programmes are moved to the replacement qualifications. If a learning programme appears to be missing from here, please check the replaced qualification. |
NONE |
PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS QUALIFICATION: |
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. |
1. | AFRICAN MINERALS COLLEGE PTY LTD |
2. | DIAMOND EDUCATION COLLEGE CC |
3. | HARRY OPPENHEIMER DIAMOND TRAINING SCHOOL NPC |
4. | NLP MINERALS COLLEGE |
5. | SOWETO DIAMOND ACADEMY |
6. | THE BERA DIAMOND ACADEMY |
7. | THE KIMBERLEY INTERNATIONAL DIAMONDAND JEWELLERY ACADEMY |
8. | ZUREL PRIVATE COLLEGE |
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. |