Diamonds have always been synonymous with luxury and love. But, did you ever wish them cheaper?
We all did. And guess what? Science turned this wish into a boon and discovered Lab-grown diamonds!
But,
What are Lab-grown Diamonds?
Simple— these diamonds are made in a Lab.
Yep, you read that right. Scientists can now create diamonds in high-tech labs, mimicking the intense heat and pressure found deep within the Earth. But wait, don’t mistake these for some cheap imitation used in costume jewellery – lab-grown diamonds are the real diamonds having the same brilliance, hardness, and fire as their mined counterparts.
We get it, you’re curious! Let’s answer all your questions about these lab-created diamonds…
How are they made?
These are made mainly using two methods: High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD). Both create stunning diamonds!
Are they certified?
Absolutely! Reputable labs like GIA and IGI can certify lab-grown diamonds just like natural diamonds, ensuring quality and authenticity.
Are these a recent invention?
Nope. It’s been around since the 1950s! Back then, they were mostly industrial-grade, used for things like drill bits. But by the 1980s, gem-quality lab-grown diamonds became a reality, opening up a whole new world of possibilities for the jewellery industry.
Are they fake?
Absolutely not! Think of it this way: a real diamond is formed over millions of years underground, while a lab-grown one took just a few weeks in a high-tech machine. They both have the same chemical composition (carbon arranged in a special way), same hardness (10 on Mohs scale) and sparkle just as brightly.
The real “fakes” are cubic zirconias, moissanites, and other materials that try to imitate diamonds but lack their durability and brilliance.
So, can we say these are diamonds on a budget?
Kind of.
Lab-grown diamonds are typically 40-60% less expensive than mined diamonds of similar quality. That’s a significant saving! However, they’re still a luxury item compared to cubic zirconias. But then, these diamonds can’t be compared with the ADs, white sapphires or moissanites as they are completely different stuff altogether, whereas you’re getting the real deal here – a diamond that will last a lifetime and become a cherished heirloom.
Are lab-grown diamonds better than natural diamonds?
Absolutely!
Mining natural diamonds can have a huge environmental impact. For example, mining a 1-carat diamond requires moving about 1,000 pounds of earth and hundreds of gallons of water. Lab-grown diamonds, on the other hand, require minimal land use and a fraction of the energy compared to traditional mining, and are incredibly less expensive. Plus, the ethical concerns around the sourcing of natural diamonds are completely eradicated here. Not a single living creature is harmed during the creation of a lab-grown diamond.
And even then,
Ultimately, the decision between natural and lab-grown diamonds boils down to personal preference.
- For some people it’s ‘the rarer, the better’ and affordability is not a concern. Plus, If you value tradition, exclusivity, and the story behind the stone, a natural diamond jewellery might be for you.
- Whereas, if you’re eco-conscious, budget-savvy, and want a stunning diamond without the ethical baggage, a lab-grown diamond might be your perfect match.
For some people, the resale value might be a concern, but even the mined diamonds significantly lose their value the moment it leaves the shop. Plus, the upfront payment difference between the two mostly makes up for the resale value. And if it is for jewellery purpose, chances are high that you’ll bag a perfect and flawless diamond everytime you opt for lab-grown. Win-win!
Things to Consider While Buying A Lab-grown Diamond
- Set Your Budget: Sometimes a lower price chart pushes us towards impulsive buying. Therefore it’s important to have a budget boundary before we step into the shop threshold and simply not cross it.
- The 4Cs Still Count: Lab diamonds are also graded based on cut, colour, carat and clarity like the mined diamonds. Be sure to check the combination and choose your fit accordingly.
- Choose the Right Cut: While shopping for lab-grown diamond jewellery, it’s important to consider your cut preferences according to the occasion, your age, personality and face type. Popular cuts include: round brilliant, princess cut, cushion cut, emerald cut and pear shaped diamonds.
- Metal Matters: Only high quality metals like gold and platinum compliments the hardness of a diamond. Hence it’s important for the jewellery settings. Also, choose the kind of metal that would flatter your skin tone.
- Compare Prices and Quality: While shopping Lab-grown diamond jewellery online, look for reputable jewellers that are transparent, provide detailed descriptions, and have verified customer reviews.
- Ask for Lab-testing Certificates: Always ask for a grading report from independent labs like ISI and SGL that certifies the authenticity of your lab-grown diamonds.
- Check the Resale Policy: Ask about the resale value and exchange policy of the jeweller. This might vary, and hence needs proper market research.
No matter which you choose, one thing’s for sure: you’ll be getting a stunning piece of jewellery that will turn heads for years to come from both! But still, at the end, it’s our responsibility to play the role in saving the planet and with changing times, we shall change our preferences too!
FAQs
What are the different names for Lab-grown diamonds?
These are called by various names such as— Lab-made, lab-grown, lab-created diamonds, synthetic diamonds, man-made diamonds, cultured diamonds, and created diamonds.
Is a lab-grown diamond a real diamond?
No doubt! Lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds. They have the same physical, chemical, and optical properties like a natural diamond.
Why are lab diamonds less expensive?
Lab-grown diamonds are typically 40% less expensive than natural diamonds for their ease of creation and availability.
Why choose lab-grown diamonds?
Lab-grown diamonds are incredibly more affordable than a mined diamond of the same quality, are ethical, eco-friendly and sustainable without compromising on quality or beauty.