What does a diamond sign signify in UML class diagrams?

If there is no diamond, then we have a simple association.

If the diamond is left empty, it signifies it is an aggregation. This relation is stronger than a simple association. In this case a Customer aggregates Orders.

If the diamond is black, this means it is a composition, which is even stronger than an aggregation because the composite class cannot be composite by other classes. Its “life” depends on the container.

I think it’s explained a little bit more clearly, at:

  • Ezra, Aviad (May 28, 2009) “UML Class Diagram: Association, Aggregation and Composition

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