DIAMOND VS BERLIAN , WHAT'S THE DIFFERENCE?

Diamond and Berlian are terms that many people often use interchangeably when referring to expensive gemstones.

sofyanto

October 25, 2025

The definition of "diamond" vs "berlian"

Scientifically and mineralogically, these two words refer to the same precious stone. This gemstone is pure carbon formed by high-temperature pressure from the earth's interior.

The term "diamond" is actually the English term, while its Indonesian equivalent is "berlian". So, there is actually no difference between the two, as they refer to the same precious stone.

Using the terms "diamond" and "diaman" (diamond)

Although they are similar, in certain contexts the two terms can be used differently. For example,

High-end jewelry stores often use the term "diamond ring" when referring to rings to convey a sense of luxury. Meanwhile, sellers in Indonesian jewelry stores often use the term "ring Berlian".

Branding and Visual Impression

The word "diamond" is often associated with vulgarity, luxury, exclusivity, and international appeal. This is why many brands use the word in their product trademarks, for example:

Jewelry
Diamond Center
The Diamond Store

While the word "diamond" itself tends to be more commonplace or ordinary to Indonesians, even though the product is the same.

However, for the Indonesian domestic market, using the word "berlian" actually makes it easier for the general public to understand.

Certification and Official Terminology

Official certifications, such as those from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), which are used internationally, use the term "diamond." Therefore, some premium Indonesian stores list certain specifications using this term.

For example,

1.00 carat round brilliant
clarity VS1, color F

Although the seller may explain that this is a diamond, the term "diamond" is still used in the documentation and certification.

Imitation Diamonds versus Real Diamonds

Sometimes people use the word "diamond" to refer to stones that look like diamonds, even though they are not yet authentic.

Currently, there are many inexpensive jewelry items on the market, but sellers label them with imitation diamond rings. However, the stones they use are only:

Cubic zirconia
Moissanite
Ordinary crystal

So, even though it's called a diamond, it doesn't necessarily mean it's a genuine gemstone. Therefore, it's crucial to understand the context of these two terms.

Tips for Testing Gemstone Authenticity

Because the term "diamond" is the most common term among gemstone sellers, it often confuses and deceives novice buyers. To avoid buying fake gemstones, do the following:

Always ask for official certification (GIA, IGI, HRD).
Check if the store uses these two terms without a detailed explanation.
Check the item's specifications (carat, cut, color, clarity).
Avoid buying an item based solely on verbal claims that it's a genuine diamond.

For gemstone sellers, use the term "diamond" when selling online. However, in everyday conversation, simply use the term "berlian."

Conclusion

Diamonds are essentially the same thing: precious stones made from pure carbon with an extraordinary sparkle. The difference between the two lies only in the language and context in which they are used.

However, in the world of jewelry trading, the term "diamond" is often used by sellers because it is more popular. So, it doesn't matter which of the two terms we use, as the most important thing is that we buy precious stones from a trusted source.