Lab Grown Diamonds have grown in popularity over the past several years, providing a viable choice for those wanting to purchase diamond engagement rings. But what exactly are Lab Grown Diamonds and why should you choose them over Natural Diamonds? In this guide, we will cover the basics of Lab Grown Diamonds, the differences between Lab-Grown and Natural Diamonds, and their pros and cons.
Table of Contents
What is a Lab Grown Diamond?
A Lab Grown Diamond is a diamond that has been manufactured in a controlled laboratory environment. Using either Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) or High-Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) methods, scientists have been able to create diamonds that look optically the same as earth-mined diamonds, contain the same chemical and physical attributes, and even receive certification through the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and International Gemological Institute (IGI).
Lab Diamonds vs Natural: What do the Experts Say?
Visually, Natural Diamonds and Lab Grown Diamonds are the same with the same hardness level and durability. In 2018 the Federal Trade Commission recognized Lab Diamonds as real. Both Natural and Lab Grown Diamonds have the same physical and chemical properties and both come with diamond certifications.
When grading Lab Grown Diamonds, the same 4 Cs: Color, Cut, Clarity, and Carat are applied. The differences between Natural Diamonds and Lab Grown Diamonds cannot be seen with the naked eye. Natural Diamonds have tiny amounts of nitrogen, while Lab Grown Diamonds have no nitrogen. This is one of the signifiers gemologists use to identify whether a diamond is lab grown or natural. Natural diamonds are created under the pressure of the earth’s crust over millions of years, then they are mined, cut, and polished. A Lab Grown Diamond is placed through the same circumstances, only in a lab setting.
Pros and Cons of Buying a Lab Grown Diamond
Lab Grown Diamonds are approximately 30-50% less than Natural Diamonds, which means you can purchase a significantly larger diamond and truthfully say it is a diamond. Generally speaking, the answer is Yes. A perfectly cut, internally flawless diamond is quite expensive and rare whether it is a Lab Grown Diamond or a Natural Diamond.
Pros:
- Lab Grown Diamonds are approximately 30-50% less than Natural Diamonds, which means you can purchase a significantly larger diamond and truthfully say it is a diamond.
- Lab Grown Diamonds have the same physical and chemical properties as Natural Diamonds so they will be just as dazzling.
- Circumvents the environmental and ethical issues that come with mining Natural Diamonds.
Cons:
- Natural Diamonds have a rarity factor and generally hold their value better than Lab Grown Diamonds.
- Lab Grown Diamonds require huge amounts of energy due to the high heat required to produce a diamond.
- Lower clarity graded Lab Grown Diamonds may have inclusions that can be seen by the “naked eye”.
Conclusion
Whether you’re looking for a diamond engagement ring or a unique piece of jewelry, Lab Grown Diamonds offers a great alternative to Natural Diamonds.
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