You’ve likely heard the term lab diamonds before, but what exactly is a lab diamond? Lab grown diamonds are a “real” diamond that shares the same chemical composition, optical properties, and physical features as natural diamonds. Keep reading to learn more about how lab diamonds get created and some advantages and cons to lab diamonds. This information can determine if a lab-made diamond is right for you.
The first lab-made diamonds were made by GE in 1954, but it took years to perfect the process to create gem-quality lab-made diamonds. The process to create a Lab Grown Diamond is somewhat similar to the process to create natural diamonds. Except one occurs within the earth’s crust and the other is in a laboratory. The manufacturing process for lab diamonds replicates conditions used to create a natural diamond (extreme temperatures and pressures that turn carbon into a diamond).
Manufacturers create lab diamonds two ways, either by using High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) or Chemical Deposition (CVD). Here’s an explanation of each manufacturing process:
In addition to the unique processes to create lab diamonds, they also have some interesting benefits:
We can’t mention all of the benefits of lab-created diamonds without mentioning their short list of cons.
Lab-made diamonds aren’t as rare as natural diamonds, so their value depreciates over time. This will impact resale value if you want to sell your jewelry in the future.
Manufacturers have to use a tremendous amount of energy to create lab-made diamonds.
While they generate jobs for people in the labs, they don’t help provide jobs and income for those working in diamond mines.
Ultimately, you’ll have to weigh the pros and cons of lab and earth diamonds and decide what works best for you. Consider your budget, opinions of conflict-free diamonds, and environmental impact with diamond mining. Research the best place to buy lab-made diamonds and look at the brand’s reputation, warranty, and return policy. Companies like With Clarity provide plenty of educational information to help you make the best decision for you.
Is it worth buying lab diamonds?
It’s always nice to have choices, and it’s nice to have an alternative option for natural diamonds. Lab and natural diamonds have the same chemical composition, optical properties, and physical features. Lab-made diamonds aren’t as valuable long-term as natural diamonds because natural diamonds are rarely you’d like a bigger, more affordable diamond, then it’s definitely worth looking at a lab diamond.
Are lab diamonds better quality?
Just like natural diamonds, lab diamonds come in different quality grades of the 4Cs (carat, color, clarity, and cut). Review any certification information that’s available for the diamond. Remember that every diamond has unique features, so examine each one carefully.
Do lab diamonds sparkle?
Lab diamonds absolutely sparkle because they have the same chemical makeup as natural diamonds as well as their optical properties and physical features. Their sparkle and brilliance is just as amazing as natural diamonds. The amount of sparkle is based on the cut of the diamond, regardless of whether it’s a natural or lab diamond.
Can you insure lab diamonds?
Yes, lab diamonds, like natural diamonds, can be insured. Jewelry insurance is typically based on the appraised value of the jewelry. Plus, it is affordable – it generally costs around 1-2% of the total value of your jewelry.
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