Why people choose lab-grown diamonds and what should you know before buying

The original article was originally written and published by International Gem Society

Lab-grown diamonds are becoming popular choices for rings and other jewelry purchases. However, you should always know what you're getting before you buy. Learn the truth about lab-grown diamonds in this article.

Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Real Diamonds?

Chemically, physically, and optically, lab-grown diamonds are identical to natural ones. They're real diamonds with the same crystal structure and beautiful sparkle but easier on your pocketbook.

That's why they've become so popular and why top diamond jewelers like AmourDiamant have opted to specialize totally in lab-grown jewelry.

What is a Lab-Made Diamond Called?

Lab-made diamonds can go by a few different names. Lab-made, lab-grown, lab-created, human-made, cultured, and created can describe diamonds made in a laboratory.

Can You Tell the Difference Between a Lab-Made Diamond and a Natural One?

At first glance, there's no way to tell the difference between a lab-made diamond and a natural one. However, there are two small details you could look for.

Diamonds usually have a lab report number. If you go to the laboratory website, you can enter this number to get the report, which will tell you whether the stone is mined or lab-grown, along with plenty of other information.

If you don't have any certificates or the lab report number, only a major gemological laboratory can tell you whether the diamond is mined or created.

Can a Diamond Tester Detect Lab-Created Diamonds?

Lab-made diamonds have the same thermal and electrical conductivity as mined diamonds. So, they will pass a diamond tester exam.

Can a Jeweler Tell the Difference Between Lab-Made and Mined Diamonds?

Since a lab-grown diamond appears identical to a mined diamond, most jewelers won't see the difference. (Assuming, of course, that the diamond has no lab report or any certificate). However, jewelers who are also trained gemologists may inform whether a diamond is lab-grown with a powerful microscope's aid. Still, the only way to be sure is to send it to a gemological laboratory.

How are Lab-Grown Diamonds Made?

Two processes can create jewelry-quality diamonds: HPHT and CVD.

HPHT stands for High Pressure/High Temperature. This process mimics the way that diamonds grow in nature, subjecting carbon to high temperatures and pressing it together. This costly method requires a lot of energy.

CVD stands for Chemical Vapor Deposition, and it's not as scary as it sounds. In this process, a mixture of hydrogen and methane gas is placed in a chamber with a seed crystal. Typically, microwave power heats the chamber to a high temperature, which excites the gas. The diamond grows on the seed crystal. The CVD method is cheaper than HPHT and has become more common in recent years, as new technology has made higher-quality diamonds possible.

Isn't it "Cheap" to Buy Lab-Grown Diamonds?

Some people feel that lab-made diamonds are inappropriate for an engagement ring because they're "cheap." Others say that a diamond is a diamond, whether it came from the ground or a laboratory. Still, others prefer lab-made diamonds over mined diamonds for ethical and environmental reasons.

Not too long ago, a majority of consumers considered lab-made diamonds "cheap." However, attitudes are rapidly changing. About ⅔ of people aged 21-40 who are shopping for an engagement ring are now willing to consider lab-grown diamonds. Due to natural diamond sticker shock, that's not too surprising. Lab-grown diamonds average about 40-60% of the price of comparable natural ones. Plus, they look the same. With lower costs and guaranteed ethical sourcing, a lab-grown diamond is a practical and guilt-free alternative.

Isn't a Lab-Created Diamond Just a Fake Diamond?

Lab-grown diamonds are a far cry from fake diamonds. Historically, fake diamonds were typically glass. Glass is much less durable and has a lot less sparkle than a well-cut diamond. Other diamond imitations, like synthetic cubic zirconia and natural zircon or topaz gems, are likely to chip with wear. Lab-created diamonds have none of those issues. They're just as durable and sparkly as any natural diamond.

Are Lab-Created Diamonds Worth Anything?

Lab-created diamonds are just a little less valuable than natural diamonds. But, unless you're dropping some serious cash on a large, high-color white diamond — or a rare fancy colored diamond, like a blue diamond — a natural diamond isn't going to appreciate much in value.

In reality, all diamonds dramatically drop in value the second you buy them. After that, a mined diamond will slowly regain value, but it's unlikely you'll be able to sell your natural diamond and break even within your lifetime. (That is, unless you spent millions on a world-famous diamond with an exciting provenance).

So, whether lab-grown or mined, diamonds aren't a good investment. That's why you should always choose what will make you happiest. If you're shopping for an engagement ring stone, what would you prefer: a mined diamond or some extra cash for the honeymoon?

What if I Want to Leave my Jewelry as an Heirloom?

Even as heirlooms, lab-made diamonds aren't bad options. Odds are, your children and grandchildren will want your jewelry because it was yours. Where the stone came from will be an afterthought.

Whether lab-made or mined, your diamond will certainly last long enough for your heir to enjoy it.

Do Lab-Grown Diamonds Get Cloudy?

Lab-made diamonds typically have good clarity. Like a high-quality natural diamond, lab-made diamonds won't get cloudy.

Is it More Ethical to Buy Lab-Made Diamonds Instead of Natural Diamonds?

Ethical diamond mining has become a hot topic, and the easiest way to avoid unethically mined diamonds is to choose a lab-made one. Diamonds grown in a lab are never "blood diamonds" and have a smaller environmental footprint than mined diamonds. That makes lab-made diamonds a more environmentally sustainable option, too.

Still, there are ways to purchase ethically mined diamonds. Diamond mines in Canada, Botswana, and Australia have opted for a more transparent supply chain. You can also shop for a "recycled" secondhand diamond.

Why Do Some Lab-Made Diamonds Come in Colors?

The colored diamond option is a major "plus" for lab-grown diamonds. Fancy-colored diamonds can be some of the most expensive gemstones — but also some of the most remarkable. Pink diamonds, in particular, are always in demand, but getting one in a nice size for an engagement ring isn't an option for most budgets.

If you're interested in a fancy colored diamond for your engagement ring, a lab-grown stone might be your best option for a nice color, cut, and size at an affordable price.

Do Lab-Grown Diamonds Sparkle?

As long as they have an ideal cut, lab-grown diamonds will definitely sparkle!

So, if you want to buy an exceptional sparkling ring at the best price on the market, you can check our products here: www.amourdiamant.com

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