Corlia Roberts CXD Diamonds: A Legacy of Brilliance and Education
Founded on a legacy that began in 1998, Corlia Roberts Diamond Education (now often operating under the brand CXD Diamonds) has established itself as a premier institution for gemstone expertise in South Africa and beyond.1 What started as a specialized academy in Johannesburg has evolved into a globally recognized training center led by the mother-daughter duo of Corlia and Xanchia Roberts.
The “CXD” in the name represents the transition of this family heritage, blending Corlia’s 30+ years of industry experience with Xanchia’s modern vision for diamond sourcing and high-end education. Today, CXD Diamonds serves a dual purpose: sourcing exceptional investment-grade stones for private clients and providing world-class training for the next generation of diamond professionals.
Courses on Offer
The institute offers a diverse range of programs catering to everyone from curious enthusiasts to aspiring diamond dealers and jewelry manufacturers.2
1. Rough Diamond Evaluation & Grading
This is one of their most popular offerings, designed for those looking to enter the primary diamond trade.3
- What you learn: Identification of “mine run” diamonds, distinguishing real from fake, understanding crystal morphology, and predicting the “yield” (what a rough stone will look like once polished).4
- The Business Angle: This course is specifically structured to help students apply for a Diamond Dealer’s License.5
- Format: Available as a 2-3 day intensive in-person workshop or a comprehensive 14-lesson online course.6
2. Polished Diamonds & The 4Cs
Focused on the retail and appraisal side of the industry, this course masters the internationally recognized GIA grading system.7
- What you learn: The “4Cs” (Carat, Color, Clarity, and Cut), how to use a jeweler’s loupe, and weight estimation.
- Hands-on: Students work with real polished stones to understand how inclusions and proportions affect market value.
3. Diamond Cutting & Polishing
For those interested in the physical craft, this is a rare, intensive program that teaches the technical art of “brillianteering.”
- Scope: This 3-month (or 12-week) program covers everything from sawing and bruting to faceting a Round Brilliant cut.8
- Technology: It bridges traditional hand-crafting techniques with modern AI and laser-driven design.9
4. Jewelry Appraisal & Valuation Masterclass
Presented in partnership with DiamGold Academy, this masterclass is for professionals who need to certify and value existing jewelry.10
- Topics: Precious metal authentication (gold, silver, platinum), gemstone identification, and market valuation methodologies.11
5. Goldsmith & Jewelry Manufacture
A vocational path for those wanting to create jewelry from scratch.
- Skills: Traditional bench techniques, soldering, and setting stones.
- Support: Includes assistance with obtaining a precious metals jeweler’s permit.12
Why Study with CXD Diamonds?
| Feature | Description |
| Personalized Coaching | Many courses offer one-on-one instruction, ensuring a tailored pace. |
| Global Recognition | Certificates are internationally recognized, allowing graduates to work in global markets. |
| Lifetime Access | Students get lifetime access to the Digital Campus and ongoing WhatsApp mentoring. |
| Scenic Locations | In-person sessions are held in beautiful coastal venues like Ramsgate and Ballito (KZN). |
The “Diamond Dealer License” Path
One of the unique selling points of Corlia Roberts is the practical business support.13 They don’t just teach you how to look at a diamond; they guide you through the South African Regulator’s requirements for a Diamond Dealer License, including business plan assistance and equipment kits.14+1
