The lab-grown diamond industry has become more popular in recent years. Due to ethical, technological, and environmental advances, many diamond lovers are now switching to lab-grown. It may also be related to the closure of the Argyle Mine. Although it specializes in Argyle pink diamonds, there are also clear and other fancy-colored diamonds found in the said mine.
If you’re not yet familiar with lab-grown diamonds, this is your chance to get to know how they sparkle the same as natural ones. So if you’re interested, here are the things you should know about lab-grown diamonds!
1. How it’s Made?
Experts create lab-grown diamonds with the same chemical and physical properties as natural ones. In addition, they imitate the conditions, temperature, and other factors using advanced technology. Specifically, they use High-Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD), which involve extreme heat and pressure in carbon atoms. When that happens, layers of crystals can grow.
So if you’re worried about buying lab-grown diamonds, it’s safe to say that they’re not imitations and that they’re as real as natural diamonds.
In addition, it takes weeks or months before a lab-grown diamond comes to life. It starts with the diamond seed that grows and transforms into a sparkling stone through various processes.
2. Identifying Lab-Grown Diamonds
Did you know that even experts can’t identify the difference between a lab-grown and a natural diamond? Identifying the difference between the two requires specialized equipment, such as microscopy and spectroscopy.
With the help of advanced technology, experts can look for patterns, inclusions, and other traces that can help them identify which is which. Aside from that, there are differences when it comes to the way diamonds reflect light.
Sometimes, you can also see an inscription that indicates “lab-grown” along with the certification number. On the other hand, the certification of natural diamonds is written on paper.
3. Ethical and Environmental Considerations
As you know, nowadays, many people are concerned with how things are done. One of which is traditional mining which is known for damaging the environment. Fortunately, mining companies gradually developing eco-friendly ways to mine diamonds.
However, the damage has been done, so many diamond lovers are opting for lab-grown. Since lab-grown diamonds have the same appearance as natural ones, many appreciate the beauty of environmentally friendly products.
In addition, there are also issues of labor practices in various mines. Some of them hire local minors and pay them very low salaries. As for the lab-grown, only experts can produce them in the lab, which is safe from ethical issues.
4. Cost and Value
Did you know that lab-grown diamonds are generally more affordable than lab-grown? This is because the production cost isn’t as expensive as the mining sites. Moreover, they’re in a controlled environment that adds other desirable features.
If you’re looking for affordable diamond options, you should check lab-grown. You can save up to 50% compared to natural diamonds, especially when you buy bigger stones. Fortunately, the elegance and sparkles remain the same.
5. Size, Quality, and Availability
Lab-grown diamonds come in various shapes and sizes. And as mentioned, the quality is the same as natural diamonds. Furthermore, many variations are available, and you can always request for customized cut and color as long as your jeweler offers the service.
When it comes to certification, lab-grown diamonds also undergo the 4Cs (color, carat, cut, and clarity. Similar to natural diamonds, several gemologists also analyze lab-grown diamonds carefully. They undergo a series of tests that help the experts identify their grades.
6. Sentimental Value and Market Perception
Don’t worry, your lab-grown diamond ring can also serve as a heirloom. Although natural diamonds are known for being the traditional heirloom, lab-grown diamonds can also be the same. Since they went through the same process, although controlled, lab-grown diamonds also last long.
However, for some people, the natural way of producing diamonds can be a bit sentimental. But with the issues they face during mining, others are having second thoughts.
7. Long-Term Durability and Investment
As mentioned, since lab-grown diamonds can be heirlooms, they can also be a good investment. Although it’s not perceived that way as of now, the view of the market can change in the next years.
Besides, even the most elegant diamond can lose its shine when not taken care of properly. So if you hold onto your lab-grown diamond with love, it might hold at least a few percentages of its original value.
Final thoughts
Lab-grown diamonds have had a significant impact on the diamond industry. With its ethically pleasing production to a similar appearance to natural, consumers are gradually looking into it as a great option.
As technology develops, lab-grown diamonds can still improve and become more a lot like natural ones.
We hope this article helps you get started with lab-grown diamonds. If you have any comments about this growing diamond option, don’t hesitate to leave a comment below!
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Aliana Baraquio is currently writing for Musson Jewellers Australia, a rare and enduring jewellery design business that has been providing the finest jewellery for over 40 years in Sydney. Her free time is composed of her phone and new comics to read.
