Lab Grown Diamonds: FAQs.
A lab grown diamond mirrors a real natural diamond since it is able to display identical chemical and optical characteristics as a natural diamond. In today’s fast-changing world, lab grown (man-made) diamonds are becoming increasingly available to help cater to a population that keeps moving towards more ethical and economical alternatives.
Frequently asked questions:
How can laboratory grown diamonds show identical characteristics to natural diamonds?
Modern day labs use technological processes to crystallize carbon structures and, replicate earth’s natural process of making a rough diamond.
How can laboratory grown diamonds be differentiated from natural diamonds?
They are indistinguishable from natural diamonds to the naked eye but they can be differentiated with specialized equipment used by gemologists.
Why are lab grown diamonds more ethically conscious than natural diamonds?
Lab grown diamonds have a great advantage point when it comes to ethical consciousness and that is due to requiring a fraction of the resources typically dedicated to mining natural diamonds. In addition, lab grown diamonds completely sidestep the controversies surrounding natural diamonds, especially those of conflict and cruelty faced by miners in third world countries.
Are there different processes for producing lab grown diamonds?
All types of lab grown diamonds have similar chemical and physical structures. However, producers commonly use two different methods to get a diamond made in the lab. One process is known as High Pressure and High Temperature (HPHT) and simulates the extreme conditions below the Earth to produce diamonds. The other process is called Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) which uses a diamond "seed" upon which multiple layers are deposited to form the final diamond rough.
Do laboratory grown diamonds get certified?
Yes! Starting July 2019 the Gemological Institute Of America (GIA) has been certifying lab grown diamonds to decrease confusion in this growing segment of the diamond marketplace.
Can lab grown diamonds be treated?
Yes, just like natural diamonds they can be treated to improve their color, clarity, and appearance.
Are lab grown diamonds cheaper than natural diamonds?
Yes, they are currently about 30% cheaper than natural diamonds (as of June 2020).
Is there a reason behind lab grown diamonds being cheaper than natural diamonds?
It typically takes a few weeks to make lab grown diamonds in the lab which is a much shorter period than natural diamonds (natural diamonds take millions to billions of years to form in Earth's crust). Add to that the technological advancements making it less costly to produce diamonds in a lab, as well as the cutting out of the resource-intensive mining process, and you have yourself an identical product for a fraction of the cost.
Are lab grown diamonds a better value for your money?
The true value of lab grown diamonds is becoming clearer as international market trends are established for this good. We will be dedicating next week's blog to discuss market trends and the value of lab grown diamonds. Stay tuned!