When you think of diamonds, you likely picture glittering treasures born deep within the Earth billions of years ago. But what if we told you there’s another way to achieve this same brilliance? A way that is more affordable and ethical. Enter lab-grown diamonds, the bright and beautiful stones taking the jewellery world by storm. Beyond their sparkle lies a fascinating story of science, innovation, and the reimagination of luxury. In this ultimate guide, we’ll uncover everything you need to know about lab-grown diamonds; from how they’re made to why they’re taking over the jewellery world. If you want to learn more, read on!
The Ultimate Guide to Lab-Grown Diamonds
What are Lab-Grown Diamonds?
In simple terms, a lab-grown diamond is just like a mined diamond. The only difference is that scientists use state-of-the-art technology to grow them from a minded diamond ‘seed’. So, like mined diamonds, they consist of carbon atoms in a lattice crystal structure.
How are Lab-Grown Diamonds Made?
Scientists can create lab-grown diamonds in one of two ways. The first can be done through the High-Pressure High-Temperature (HPHT) method, replicating the natural conditions under which diamonds were formed in the Earth’s mantle millions of years ago. The second can be done through Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD), which uses high heat to free carbon atoms from their molecules; letting them settle onto a flat surface until a diamond forms.
Do Lab-Grown Diamonds Look the Same as Mined Diamonds?
Yes, lab-grown diamonds look the same as mined diamonds because they have identical physical, chemical, and optical properties. Both are made of pure carbon in a crystal lattice structure, giving them the same brilliance, sparkle, and clarity.
To the naked eye, and even under most jewellery settings, they are indistinguishable. Only specialised equipment can detect subtle differences, such as unique inclusions or growth patterns, but visually, lab-grown and mined diamonds are identical.
Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Sustainable?
As well as degrading the environment, the typical diamond mining process has been historically known to put workers in dangerous or unsanitary conditions. By removing this, and creating the diamonds in a lab, not only do they become conflict-free but also a lot more sustainable. However, it is important to note that they are not entirely without their environmental impacts.
Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Affordable?
Lab-grown diamonds can cost at least 40-50% less than a natural diamond of similar size, colour and clarity. While the capital costs for lab-grown diamonds are similar to natural diamonds, the supply chain is notably shorter. Since lab-grown diamonds skip the mining process, they touch fewer hands along the way. Hence resulting in a less expensive diamond. In addition, because lab-grown diamonds are man-made they are not dependent on nature. They are more abundant which, in turn, makes them lower in price.
Why are Lab-Grown Diamonds so Popular?
Lab-grown diamonds are popular for several reasons. Without compromising quality or appearance, lab-grown diamonds offer a more affordable, ethical and environmentally friendly alternative to mined diamonds. They are chemically and visually identical to natural diamonds but are typically 20-40% less expensive; making them an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. And if you don’t take our word for it, look at the celebrities and influencers who are starting to rock lab-grown diamonds!
If you have any further queries or questions about lab-grown diamonds, why not book an appointment online with a member of our highly skilled team? Alternatively, you can pop in-store to discuss anything further and to look at an array of lab-grown diamond jewellery.
What are your thoughts on our ultimate guide to lab-grown diamonds? Do you prefer lab-grown or mined diamonds? Let us know in the comments below!
