Jewelry, Gifts & Stationery

CanadaMark is a hallmark program for diamonds mined in Canada's Northwest Territories. It says its diamonds are natural and untreated, polished to defined standards, and tracked through independent, audited processes from the mine to the polished stone. If a Canadian origin matters to you, ask the jeweller for the CanadaMark documentation that comes with the diamond.

The Igloo Tag is a trademark created by the federal government in 1958 to show that a work of art was handmade by a Canadian Inuit artist. It has been administered by the Inuit Art Foundation since 2017. The tag lists the artist's name, community, the title of the work and the year it was made, which helps separate authentic work from imitations.

Yes, if the work done here meets the Competition Bureau's guideline: at least 51% of total direct costs incurred in Canada and the last substantial transformation, such as casting, setting and finishing, done here. The claim should include a qualifier noting imported materials. Product of Canada would require about 98% Canadian direct costs.

The Competition Bureau's origin guidelines do not set a separate test for "handmade," so the phrase can cover a lot. One maker may cast and set every piece, while another assembles bought components. Ask which steps happen in the studio and which parts come from elsewhere. Makers who do the work themselves are usually glad to explain it.

A gift from a Canadian maker often comes with a story: who made it, where and how. Many studios offer engraving, custom colours or gift notes, and some can make pieces to order. Check shipping times and order deadlines before holidays, since small makers often sell out or close orders early.