Diamonds have long held a special place in our hearts. They symbolize love, commitment, and the remarkable beauty of nature. However, recent advancements in technology have given rise to a new player in the world of diamonds. This new player is the lab grown diamonds.
These diamonds are creating a buzz in the jewelry industry. This is due to their ethical and environmental advantages. In this guide, we will talk about everything you need to know about lab grown diamonds.
What are Lab Grown Diamonds?
Lab Grown Diamonds have several alternative names. They are called synthetic diamonds, cultured diamonds, man-made diamonds, and much more. These stones are created in a controlled setting, such as a laboratory.
They are not formed deep within the Earth’s mantle over millions of years like natural diamonds. The optical properties, chemical properties, and the physical properties of these two types of diamonds are same. Only their origins and production processes are different.
How Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Made?
There are two main methods implemented for the production of man-made diamonds. They are the HPHT method and the CVD method.
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High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT)
In this method, carbon is subjected to extreme heat and pressure. This is done in order to replicate the natural diamond-growing conditions. Carbon is dissolved in a molten metal catalyst, and diamond crystals grow over time. -
Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD)
CVD diamonds are created by introducing a carbon-rich gas into a vacuum chamber and using microwave energy to create a plasma ball. The carbon atoms are then deposited layer by layer on a diamond seed.
Why Choose Lab-Grown Diamonds?
There are several reasons why you should buy synthetic diamonds. They range from cost factors to ethical considerations. Read on to know more about them here:
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Ethical Sourcing
These diamonds are free from the ethical concerns often associated with natural diamond mining. These ethical concerns are related to conflict diamonds, blood diamonds, and unfair labor practices.
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Environmental Impact
Mining natural diamonds can lead to significant environmental damage. This includes deforestation and habitat destruction. Cultured diamonds, on the other hand, have a smaller carbon footprint. This makes them more environmentally friendly.
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Cost-Effective Alternative
These diamonds are typically more affordable than their natural counterparts. This allows consumers to purchase larger or higher-quality stones within their budget.
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Quality and Purity
These diamonds often have fewer impurities and inclusions. This results in a higher clarity grade. This can make them an attractive option for those seeking near-flawless gems.
Characteristics of Lab-Grown Diamonds
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Physical Properties: Lab made diamonds have the same hardness, brilliance, and sparkle as natural diamonds. They are rated on the same 4 Cs scale. These 4 Cs include carat weight, cut, color, and clarity.
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Variety: Synthetic diamonds come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and colors. This makes them a versatile choice for jewelry designs. A wide variety of jewelry is created by using these diamonds. This includes necklaces, rings, bracelets, earrings, and more.
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Durability: Just like natural diamonds, cultured diamonds are extremely durable. They can last a lifetime. Both these diamonds score a perfect 10 on the Mohs scale. It is a measurement system that rates the hardness of a mineral.
Purchasing Lab-Grown Diamonds
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People often ask one question: Do synthetic diamonds hold their value? The answer is yes. Lab-grown diamonds often hold their value. However, they are not as costly as natural diamonds. So, if you are buying man-made diamonds as an investment option, consider buying natural diamonds.
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Certification: When buying cultured diamonds, make sure that you get a proper certification from a reputable gemological laboratory such as the GIA or Gemological Institute of America. This report provides detailed information about the diamond’s 4 Cs. It also provides information on the other characteristics of the diamond.
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Reputable Retailers: Choose established and reputable jewelers who can provide transparency about the origin of the diamond and offer a variety of lab-grown options.
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Customization: Cultured diamonds are ideal for customized jewelry. They are available in various shapes and sizes. You can work with a jeweler to create jewelry pieces that are truly unique. Take the help of a jeweler to create a unique piece of jewelry.
Care and Maintenance
Synthetic diamonds require the same care and maintenance as natural diamonds. Clean your diamond jewelry regularly with a mild detergent and make sure that you use a soft brush. Also, it is important to avoid exposing them to harsh chemicals or abrasive materials.
Are Lab Grown Diamonds GIA Certified?
According to reports, GIA has been grading synthetic diamonds since 2007. However, the reports that GIA created for these diamonds were highly different from the reports they created for the mined diamonds. The GIA initially provided a full grading report for natural diamonds.
When it came to lab diamonds, they graded only the color and clarity range. This made it difficult for the companies to price the lab-grown diamonds for consumers. However, reportedly, a new policy change was announced. The GIA will be offering an online-only color and clarity grading for lab diamonds.
Various Types of Lab Grown Diamonds
Some lab grown diamonds naturally have a yellow or orange color. They are often used in jewelry as fancy colored diamonds. These diamonds can be further treated to enhance their color intensity.
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Pink diamonds: Pink man-made diamonds are highly sought after for their rarity and vibrant color. They are often used in engagement rings and other jewelry.
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Blue diamonds: These diamonds are known for their spectacular coloration. And they are commonly used in high-end jewelry. This includes engagement rings and pendants.
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Green diamonds: Green cultured diamonds are prized for their unique hue, and they can make exquisite pieces of jewelry or accents.
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Purple and Violet: Purple and violet synthetic diamonds are quite rare and offer a distinct, regal appearance. This makes them ideal for special jewelry designs.
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Melee Diamonds
Melee diamonds are small in nature. They are typically less than 0.15 carats and are often used as accents in larger pieces of jewelry. It is widely used in making pave-setting jewelry. They are available in various shapes and colors and are used to enhance the overall appearance of a piece. Lab-grown melee diamonds are widely used in a variety of jewelry.
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Industrial Diamonds
These diamonds are not only limited to making jewelry. They also have various industrial applications. They are prized for their hardness and durability. These diamonds are often used in cutting, grinding, and drilling. These diamonds are also used as abrasives in various industries. This includes construction, manufacturing, and more.
Conclusion
Synthetic diamonds are making waves in the world of jewelry. They offer a sustainable, ethical, and budget-friendly alternative to natural diamonds. Whether you are looking for an engagement ring, a pair of earrings, or a stunning necklace, these diamonds provide an array of options to suit your preferences. With their exceptional quality and responsible sourcing, cultured diamonds are here to stay.
They are redefining the way we think about these timeless gemstones. When you choose a lab grown diamond, you not only acquire a beautiful piece of jewelry but also contribute to a more sustainable and ethical future. Next time you go for diamond jewelry shopping, remember these points and make the right decision.
