A Buyer's Guide to Lab-Grown Diamond: What You Need to Know
Lab grown diamond hence has evolved as an ethically sourced and pocket friendly alternative of natural diamond that have been traditional so far. These diamonds exhibit the same sparkle, have a similar level of clarity and are just as durable than their mined relatives — they were simply grown in lab conditions using serious technology.
What Are Lab-Grown Diamonds?
Lab-grown diamonds, or synthetic and cultured diamonds, are made in laboratories using two main processes: High Pressure, High Temperature (HPHT), and Chemical Vapour Deposition(CVD). These techniques are just a synthetic way of what happens in nature, so both diamond formation processes occur similarly.
HPHT Method: In this method, as the text implies, we mimic high pressure and temperature conditions deep in the earth's mantle. The carbon is crystallised into a diamond.
CVD Method: In this method, a carbon-rich gas is added to the chamber. The gas is then ionised, and carbon atoms are plated onto a substrate below to lay the diamond in layers.
Benefits of Lab-Grown Diamond
1. Ethical and Environmental Considerations: Many consumers choose lab-made diamonds for ethical reasons. Lab-grown diamonds do not harm the environment and bypass the less-than-ethical channels in which some large-scale miners are involved.
2. Cost-Effective: The original lab-grown diamond will be available at around 20–40% less than a natural one. The quality of the diamonds is equal to that found in a brick-and-mortar jewellery store, but since we offer them directly from our wholesale diamond broker site, you save money.
3. Identical Physical and Chemical Properties: While lab-created diamonds are not simulants of any kind (like cubic zirconia or moissanite), they DO have the same chemical and physical properties as natural diamonds. They are chemically identical to natural diamonds but also physically and optically the same, which means their brilliance is the same.
What to Look for When Buying Lab-Grown Diamond
1. Certification: Lab grown diamonds and natural stones should be certified by credible labs, like the GIA, IGI, or AGS. They are like an insurance policy made of a diamond of high quality and genuine.
2. The 4 Cs: Analyse the lab diamonds concerning carat, cut, colour, and clarity (as done for natural stones).
- Carat: Similar to grams, but for diamonds. There are lab-created diamonds of all types and carat sizes!
- Cut: A shallower cut will show light on the edges, making it look more prominent, while deeper cuts reflect more light for sparkle. Look for excellent or excellent cut grades in your diamonds for the most sparkly stone.
- Colour: Lab-created diamonds can be colourless or fancy-coloured with a range of colours
- Clarity: The flaws within or on the surface of a diamond are inclusions and blemishes, respectively. A better clarity grade implies lower imperfections.
3. Vendor Reputation: Always buy your lab-created diamond from a trusted jeweller or online store. Check customer reviews and ratings to ensure it's from a seller you can trust.
4. Warranty and Return Policy: Ensure the seller provides a good warranty/return policy. 6 This way, you will have peace of mind, as your investment is backed by the diamond if there ever happens to be any issue.
Common Misconceptions About Lab-Grown Diamond
1. Lab-Grown Diamonds Are Fake: This is the most common misunderstanding. Lab-grown diamonds are real and have the same properties as natural diamonds. They are genuine stones, as opposed to plastic or imitation ore.
2. Lab-Grown Diamond Lacks Value: Although lab diamonds will not increase in value like natural and rare ones, they have other values, such as quality, morals, and even price.
3. Lab-Grown Diamonds Are Easily Identifiable: This is entirely untrue. To the naked human eye, it is nearly impossible for anyone to see the difference. The absolute truth is that only special equipment can identify where a diamond comes from.
Tips for Buying Lab-Grown Diamond
1. Educate Yourself: Knowing more about lab-grown diamonds before you purchase your first one is always beneficial. Investigate how things are made, the four Cs, and process standards.
2. Compare Prices: Just like you shop around for any other purchase from a vendor, the truth is still one of those they can take. It will give you an idea of the market rate and help you find your best opportunity.
3. Ask Questions: Do not hesitate to ask a jeweller or retailer about the origin of a diamond, its certification, and its quality. A good seller will be glad to provide all the details.
4. Consider Customization: Many jewellers offer lab-grown diamond jewellery with different customization options. This makes the piece one of a kind and tailored to your style and preferences.
Conclusion
One of the primary uses for lab-grown diamonds is an ethical, environmentally friendly, and cost-effective alternative to natural diamond stones. With the above benefits, knowing what to look for and how misconceptions are wrong will make you confidently navigate and find that perfect lab-created diamond for your needs! So rest assured, you can get beautiful jewellery – an engagement ring, wedding band, or other fine jewellery — that features natural diamonds grown in the lab without sacrificing quality and brilliance.
