Are Lab Grown Diamonds Real?
Yes, lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds! They are chemically, physically, and optically identical to natural diamonds mined from the earth. The only difference is their origin – lab diamonds are grown in a highly controlled laboratory environment rather than formed over billions of years deep underground.
How Are Lab Diamonds Made?
Lab diamonds are created using advanced technological processes that replicate the natural diamond formation process. There are two main methods:
- High-Pressure High Temperature (HPHT): This process exposes a small diamond “seed” to extremely high temperatures (over 2,500°F) and pressures to grow the diamond layer-by-layer over several weeks.
- Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD): In this process, a diamond seed is placed in a chamber filled with carbon-rich gas. The gas is heated to extreme temperatures, breaking the carbon bonds and depositing the carbon on the seed, growing the diamond over several weeks.
The rough lab-grown diamond is cut and polished by expert craftsmen, just like a natural diamond. The result is a diamond that is visually and chemically identical to a mined diamond.
Lab Diamonds vs Natural Diamonds
Lab diamonds and natural diamonds share the same physical and chemical properties. They have the same crystal structure, the same chemical composition (pure carbon), and the same optical and thermal properties. Even expert gemologists cannot tell them apart without advanced testing equipment. The key differences are:
- Origin: Lab diamonds are grown in a lab, while natural diamonds are mined from the earth.
- Price: Lab diamonds cost 20-30% less than comparable natural diamonds.
- Availability: Lab diamonds can be produced to order in specific sizes and qualities.
- Sustainability: Lab diamond production has a smaller environmental and social impact than mining.
Benefits of Lab-Grown Diamonds
Lab diamonds offer several advantages over natural diamonds:
- Affordability: Lab diamonds cost significantly less than natural diamonds of comparable quality. This makes them more accessible for engagement rings, wedding bands, and other diamond jewelry.
- Ethical sourcing: Lab diamond production is free from the human rights and environmental issues sometimes associated with diamond mining.
- Customization: Lab diamonds can be produced in specific sizes, cuts, colors, and clarities to order. This allows for more customization options when designing jewelry.
- Sustainability: Lab diamond production has a much smaller environmental footprint than mining. No land is disturbed, and no toxic chemicals are used in the process.
- Availability: Lab diamonds are consistently available in a wide range of sizes and qualities. There are no supply chain issues or seasonal shortages.
Choosing a lab-grown Diamond
When selecting a lab-grown diamond, look for one that has been certified by a respected gemological laboratory like the GIA or IGI. The diamond should be graded on the 4 C’s – cut, color, clarity and carat weight – just like a natural diamond. Some tips:
- Focus on cut quality first, as this has the biggest impact on a diamond’s sparkle.
- Consider a diamond with a lower color grade (G-I) to save money without sacrificing appearance.
- Look for a diamond with a clarity grade of VS1 or VS2 to get an eye-clean diamond at a lower price point.
- Prioritize carat weight based on your budget and the wearer’s preferences.
In conclusion, lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds that are chemically, physically and optically identical to natural diamonds. They offer a more affordable, ethical and sustainable alternative to mined diamonds, without compromising on quality or beauty. With proper certification and grading, a lab diamond makes an excellent choice for engagement rings, wedding bands and other diamond jewelry.
