What Are Lab-Grown Diamonds?
Lab-grown diamonds, lab diamonds or cultured diamonds are diamonds that are created in a laboratory using contemporary technological processes. Scientists recreate the same conditions nature uses under the ground. After applying high heat and high pressure to carbon, over time, a diamond is created. The end result is a diamond that has the same look, feel, and tests the same as a diamond that is mined from the earth.
How Do Lab-Grown Diamonds Compare to Natural Diamonds?
When you look at a lab-grown diamond and a natural diamond side by side, you cannot tell the difference just by looking at them. They both sparkle the same, the clarity is identical, and they both have the same strength. Even the experts need special equipment to determine them, even though they are not the same "natural" geological process for formation. One came out of the earth after millions of years. The other was grown in a laboratory in a matter of weeks or months.
Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Real Diamonds?
Lab-grown diamonds are indeed authentic diamonds and should not be confused with fake, glass or crystal. With lab-grown diamonds, you get a diamond that is made from pure carbon in the same way as natural diamonds. The U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has verified that lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds. As such, when you purchase a lab-grown diamond, you are investing in the same beautiful gem that sparkles in jewelry stores around the world.
How Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Made?
There are two primary processes for producing lab-created diamonds:
- High Pressure, High Temperature (HPHT): This process replicates the natural conditions below the Earth's surface. Carbon is subjected to extreme heat and pressure until it crystallizes into diamond.
- Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD): In this process, a slice of diamond is placed into a chamber filled with carbon gas. The carbon builds up layer by layer to create the diamond.
Both methods produce actual diamonds that jewelers can cut and polish and use to set rings, necklaces, or earrings.
Do Lab-Grown Diamonds Last Forever?
Indeed, lab-grown diamonds have a permanent state. They are equally as hard as natural diamonds, and both stones have a score of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale the highest rating possible. So both stones are not likely to scratch, and will shine forever. Whether it be passed down as an heirloom or worn every day, a lab-grown diamond will maintain its beauty.
Are Lab-Grown Diamonds a Good Investment?
The first reason people consider value when buying diamonds is because natural diamonds can hold resale value while lab-grown diamonds can offer many cosmetic features such as sparkle, color, and clarity, for less money. Lab-grown diamonds are ideal for someone who wants to have a nice ring but doesn’t want to spend extra money for the natural stones. One could compare it to purchasing a product other than natural diamonds which had all the aesthetics for a better price.
Conclusion
Lab-Grown Diamonds are real diamonds that have the same beauty, strength and sparkle as natural diamonds. The only difference is how they are created. When picking a diamond, making the choice to buy a lab-grown diamond can allow for several positive factors including saving money, sustainability and ethical sourcing. They are an amazing option for e.g. engagement rings, gifts or for your personal collection. In the end, whether it is natural diamond or lab-grown diamond, the sparkle will bring a smile.