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: 

Kerf diamond gemstones for sawing 
SAQA US ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE
260400  Kerf diamond gemstones for sawing 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Mining and Minerals 
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 4  NQF Level 04  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
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 unit standard does not replace any other unit standard and is not replaced by any other unit standard. 

PURPOSE OF THE UNIT STANDARD 
This unit standard is useful for people who intend following a career in the diamond processing sector and who are required to kerf diamond gemstones for parting by sawing. This process is known as kerfing.

Learners credited with this unit standard are able to:
  • Identify the equipment and tools used to kerf diamond gemstones for sawing and describe their application.
  • Demonstrate knowledge of the structure of diamond gemstones and the implications for kerfing them.
  • Prepare to kerf diamond gemstones.
  • Kerf diamond gemstones.
  • Conduct post-kerfing cleaning, checking and security activities.

    The skills, knowledge and understanding demonstrated within this unit standard are essential for social and economic transformation and contribute to the upliftment and economic growth of the mining and minerals sector, particularly in the aspect of beneficiation.

    This unit standard is intended to promote general skills, knowledge and understanding of the diamond processing industry in the mining and minerals sector in order to ensure knowledgeable and informed workers. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    It is assumed that learners are already competent in:
  • Use a loupe to examine a diamond gemstone.
  • Identify polishing grains and planes in diamond gemstones.
  • Setting up diamond gemstones for parting.
  • Explain the requirements for security of diamonds. 
    		•

    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.
  • This unit standard applies to persons kerfing any type of diamond gemstones in preparation for parting by sawing under minimal supervision. 
    		•

    Specific Outcomes and Assessment Criteria: 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 1 
    Identify the equipment and tools used to kerf diamond gemstones for sawing and describe their application. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The tools and their components used for kerfing diamond gemstones for sawing are identified and their use in different applications is explained in terms of key features, applications and methods for use. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The process for kerfing diamond gemstones is explained in terms of the properties of diamonds and the effect of using metal to make a cutting line on diamonds. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Practices are explained to maintain good housekeeping, safety in the workplace and care of equipment in line with workplace specific requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    The consequences of deviating from workplace specific practices are described in terms of potential impact on health, safety, equipment, products and productivity. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 2 
    Demonstrate knowledge of the structure of diamond gemstones and the implications for kerfing. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Two and four point sawing planes are identified for different diamond types. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The grains in diamond gemstones are identified indicating where they run. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Problems that can be encountered when kerfing diamond gemstones are described in terms of types of problems, key features, implications for sawing and methods to overcome such problems. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    The types of problems that can be encountered must include:
  • Gletzes.
  • Naat.
  • Cross-grain.
  • Flaws.
  • Impurities.
  • Naturals.
  • Brown lines.
  • Internal stress.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Hints and techniques for kerfing diamond gemstones for sawing are explained in terms of different applications and the consequences of using inappropriate techniques. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 3 
    Prepare to kerf diamond gemstones. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Appropriate personal protective clothing and equipment is selected and applied according to required standards of occupational health and safety. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The kerfing equipment is checked to ensure it is ready for use. Any problems encountered are dealt with in accordance with workplace specific procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Stones received are checked to see that they have been set up in appropriate pots. Any problems encountered are dealt with in terms of workplace specific procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Set up stones are located and secured in the chuck head of the sawing machine. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    An appropriate kerf blade is selected and prepared according to the requirements for the specific stone to be sawn. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    The pressure weights are set for the required kerfing activity before applying the blade to the diamond gemstone. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
    The Marker's line is checked to ensure that it is correctly aligned. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    The checking required must include:
  • Lines no parallel.
  • Lines not meeting.
  • Lines not curving.
     
    		•

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 4 
    Kerf diamond gemstones. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Diamond gemstones are kerfed according to instructions given in the parcel and defined quality and output standards. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Defined quality and output standards will be found in the employer's:
  • Work specifications.
  • Tariff agreements.
  • Parcel instructions.
  • Policies and Procedures.
  • Workplace safety requirements.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The pressure weights and speed of rotation of the kerfing blade are constantly monitored and adjusted during kerfing to ensure the correct kerfing line is obtained. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    The integrity of the kerfing blade is frequently checked during the process of kerfing. Remedial action is taken in line with workplace specific procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Problem stones are continuously monitored to avoid damage to stones. Remedial action is taken in line with workplace specific procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Kerf lines are continuously checked to ensure they are aligned to the correct position and to ensure no damage to the gemstone is occurring. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 5 
    Conduct post-kerfing cleaning, checking and security activities. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Diamond gemstones are cleaned and inspected for accuracy of kerfing in relation to workplace specifications. Remedial action is taken in line with workplace specific procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Kerf blades are removed from the sawing machine and inspected. Usable blades are repaired and replaced into appropriate storage facilities. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Damaged-beyond-repair blades are disposed of in accordance with workplace specific procedures. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Housekeeping is exercised after kerfing diamond gemstones in accordance with workplace procedures. 
    ASSESSMENT CRITERION RANGE 
    Good housekeeping must include:
  • Clean sawing equipment and blades.
  • Repair kerfing blades and replace them into correct storage facilities.
  • Maintenance of personal protective clothing and equipment.
     
    		•

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Diamond gemstones are accounted for after kerfing in accordance with 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 properties of a diamond gemstone:
  • Understanding the various properties of the diamond and the effect that incorrect speed, pressure and kerf blade can have.
  • Importance of diamonds being set up properly and the implication of wrong setting (pressure and angle).
  • Awareness of the damage to a diamond that can be caused by use of incorrect blades, speed and pressure.

    Occupational Health, Safety and Environmental issues:
  • Significant hazards and risks related to gemstone processing, their consequences and mitigating actions.
  • Safety measures related to diamond processing.
  • PPE requirements and the reason for each.
  • Impact on the environment and mitigating actions.
  • Emergency procedures.

    Legislative and structural environment:
  • Importance of adherence to health and safety requirements during processing.
  • Importance of care and maintenance of tools and equipment.
  • Codes of practice.

    Communication:
  • Reporting requirements and ability.
  • Communicating with relevant personnel.
  • Liaison between personnel in various functions.

    Handling and custody of diamond gemstones:
  • Achieving specified production requirements.
  • Identify the equipment and explain the specification and functions.
  • Preparation.
  • Examination.
  • Handling of diamond gemstones.
  • Monitoring and control.

    Monitoring processing and impurities:
  • Security requirements.
  • Collection and disposal of diamond dust.
  • Use of tools and equipment.
  • Use of personal protective equipment. 
    		•

    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.

    Note: The ability of the learner to identify incorrect size of pots, flaws in diamond gemstones and to take remedial action when there are deviations in the kerfing line contributes to the problem solving ability. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO WORKING 
    Work effectively with others as a member of a team/group/organisation/community.

    Note: The ability and willingness to accept and interpret work instructions correctly and to know when to refer issues to the appropriate colleagues in an acceptable manner indicates the ability to work effectively as a team member within the structure of the organisation. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO ORGANISING 
    Organise and manage oneself and one's activities responsibly and effectively.

    Note: The preparation of blades, tools and equipment prior to commencing setting up of diamond gemstones for kerfing and the complying with good housekeeping practices indicates the ability to organise and manage activities in the work environment. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COLLECTING 
    Collect, organise and evaluate information.

    Note: The ability to assimilate instructions and determine the appropriate blades and pressures to apply indicates the ability to collect, organise and evaluate information. 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO SCIENCE 
    Use science and technology effectively and critically (showing responsibility towards the environment and health of others).

    Note: The ability to select the correct kerfing blade and apply appropriate pressures and to abide by safety and housekeeping standards demonstrates the critical use of science and technology in the safeguarding of the material, the environment, fellow workers and oneself. 

    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 
    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.
  • Occupational Health and Safety Act (Act 85/1993).
  • Mandatory Codes of Practice.
  • The glossary of terms about the terminology of the industry issued by the Bargaining Council for the Diamond Cutting Industry.

    Site-Specific:
  • Hazard Identification and Risk Assessments (HIRA).
  • Occupational Health and Safety Risk Management Programme.
  • Managerial Instructions.
  • Workplace diamond gemstone security system.
  • 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  64729   Further Education and Training Certificate: Diamond Processing  Level 4  NQF Level 04  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.