Deciphering the Differences Between Lab-Created and Natural Diamonds
The world of diamonds is vast and fascinating, but it can also be a bit confusing, especially when it comes to understanding the differences between lab-grown and natural diamonds.
This article aims to dispel any doubts and answer some of the most common questions we receive, such as "Can one really tell the difference between a natural and a lab-grown diamond?" and "Does a lab-grown diamond look less authentic, hence its lower price?" Let's delve into these queries and more to help you make an informed decision for your next diamond purchase.
Understanding Lab-Grown Diamonds
Firstly, it's crucial to clarify that lab-grown diamonds are indeed real diamonds, not to be mistaken with cubic zirconia, moissanite, or any other diamond simulants, which have entirely different chemical structures.
The Perks of Opting for Lab-Grown Diamonds
One of the main advantages of lab-grown diamonds is their ethical implications. They can be produced with significantly less environmental impact compared to their mined counterparts, using a fraction of the energy and resources. This was a key motivation behind the development of lab-grown diamonds, as concerns about unethical practices and environmental damage associated with diamond mining have led many consumers to seek more sustainable jewelry options. Lab-grown diamonds offer a guilt-free way to enjoy the beauty of this precious stone.
Another significant benefit of lab-grown diamonds is their affordability. Since they can be produced on demand and are more readily available, they often come with a lower price tag. This can be particularly beneficial for significant purchases like engagement rings, allowing buyers to opt for a larger or higher quality diamond without exceeding their budget.
Comparing Lab-Grown and Natural Diamonds
Characteristics | Lab-Grown Diamonds | Natural Diamonds |
Appearance | Likely to be of better quality and higher purity due to controlled conditions | Purity and quality vary, higher quality comes at a higher cost |
Defects | Fewer defects due to controlled conditions | Often have more natural defects |
Affordability | Can be up to 40% cheaper, allowing for a larger diamond within the same budget | More expensive but hold their value better |
Color | Can create different colors, including ones rarely found in nature | Color varies with each diamond, high-quality diamonds in rare colors cost more |
Sustainability | Trackable origin source, less environmental impact | Can have environmental and social impacts, can be mitigated with careful sourcing |
Hardness (Mohs Scale) | 10 | 10 |
Formation | 100% carbon, created in a lab | 100% carbon, formed naturally over billions of years |
Quality Assessment | Assessed using the 4C's (Cut, Clarity, Color, Carat) | Assessed using the 4C's (Cut, Clarity, Color, Carat) |
From this comparison, it's clear that many of the desirable qualities of natural diamonds are also present in lab-grown diamonds. It's virtually impossible to distinguish between the two with the naked eye. If you're considering a lab-grown diamond, we offer a wide variety of lab-grown diamond jewelry pieces, including an extensive collection of lab-grown diamond engagement rings.
If you have any more questions about lab-grown diamonds or want to discuss our selection in more detail, feel free to book an virtual appointment today. You can also browse our full collection of engagement rings.
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