A lab-grown diamond is a real diamond. Physically and chemically it is just as real as a naturally mined diamond. Lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds but are differently sourced. From their chemical composition to their physical characteristics, lab-grown diamonds and mined diamonds are similar and different at the same time.
Lab Grown vs Natural Diamonds
Natural diamonds are considered to be more valuable because they were formed under conditions of extreme heat and and pressure. All natural diamonds are at least 990,000,000 years old, and many are 3,200,000,000 years old - that is 3.2 billion years. Diamonds were formed deep within the Earth, between 100 km and 200 km below earth’s surface, and are carried to the earth’s surface by volcanic eruptions. Many couples view a natural diamond as preferable because of the association that since diamonds take forever to make that love is forever as well.
Lab grown diamonds can take up to 10 weeks to be made in the lab. No matter the chemical procedure that is done, lab grown diamonds come out with the same physical and chemical properties, making them almost indistinguishable.
The Value of a Lab-Grown Diamond
A perfectly cut, flawless, and colorless diamond is incredibly rare to find naturally, but with synthetic, lab-grown diamonds, this is more achievable. Both kinds of diamonds will have various amounts of inclusions, with some internal characteristics more visible than others. These internal characteristics can be understood as being a “fingerprint” for each diamond.
Pros And Cons Of Lab-Grown Diamonds
Pros of Buying a Lab-Grown Diamond
Here are some positives to buying a lab-grown diamond:
- Can cost 30-50% less
- Good alternative to mined diamonds, especially if not looking to resell
Cons to Buying a Lab-Grown Diamond
Here are some of the cons to buying a lab-grown diamond:
- Natural diamonds are rare, potentially holding more value
- Sustainability issues with how much energy is used to create lab-grown diamonds.
GIA Certified
GIA has been grading lab-grown diamonds since 2007. GIA recently updated its policy to make grading these lab grown diamonds clearer. Instead of just giving a range for color and clarity of lab grown diamonds, GIA have set a specific set of rules for all lab grown diamonds.
The GIA Laboratory-Grown Diamond Report includes GIA color, clarity and cut grading scales for reference purposes, and the report includes a statement that identifies the type of growth process used, CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition) or HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature).
This helps establish a level of consistency between natural and lab grown diamonds. It also establishes a foundation for lab grown diamonds to be viewed as legitimate diamonds.
Conclusion
Lab-grown diamonds are indistinguishable from mined diamonds by the naked eye. Here at ZFolio, we know that you want to make a statement with your jewelry, and your center gemstone is no exception. Whether you’re looking for lab-grown or natural diamonds, contact us today for help finding the diamond that is perfect for you or your loved one.