How to Identify Lab-Grown vs. Natural Diamonds
|
Time to read 28 min
|
Time to read 28 min
Content
Lab produced in their different setups along with their high-tech processes: natural diamonds, however, develop deep in the Earth due to millions of years of heat and pressure. Both types possess the same chemical compositions and physical properties, allowing them to be undetectable, even at naked eye evaluations.
Lab-grown diamonds usually sell at a price that is 40 to 50 percent less than similar natural diamonds based on size and quality. Naturally, one of the main reasons giving rise to such a difference in their prices is that they don't involve huge mining operations, which are very costly as they are coupled with a long supply chain; therefore, they are more economical for budget-minded customers.
Laboratory created diamonds have the same chemical, physical and optical characteristics as diamonds that are natural. They are graded by professional gemological institutes with the four Cs: cut, clarity, color, and carat. The quality of the two types can be excellent and for bright sparkle.
Distinguishing lab-created diamonds from the real thing is possible only with highly specialized equipment. Professional gemologists use very advanced testing devices that detect subtle growth pattern differences. Both types have certification from gemological institutes that clearly state their origin.
Since diamonds are rare and traditional in their market, they keep appreciating as investment pieces over time. Although lab-grown diamonds will initially cost a lot less than natural diamonds, they are likely to lose value even faster with increased production capacity, which could affect resale value in the long view.
Usually, lab-grown diamonds have a low environmental footprint than mined diamonds. They emit less carbon and disturb less land. However, they have pretty high energy input in their production. Both the industries are trying to improve their sustainability practices.
Lab-created diamonds can be synthesized within a period of six to ten weeks. There are two main techniques for producing laboratory diamonds, namely, High-Pressure, High-Temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD). In comparison to naturally raised diamonds which take millions of years to form in the earth. By using HPHT and CVD technology, the entire process has been compressed to form diamond in just 6-10 weeks.
A lab-grown diamond is not a fake or synthetic imitation. A lab-grown diamond is a real diamond with the same chemical composition of pure carbon as that of a natural diamond. Unlike cubic zirconia and moissanite, lab diamonds are real diamonds, but made under different conditions.
Exclusively subjective and rooted in personal principles and priorities. Natural diamonds come with heritage and all that traditional value, and lab-grown diamonds are of similar quality at cheaper prices. Their durability is also cost-effective because both can withstand daily wear and tear as well as certified authenticity.
Almost all trusted jewelers today provide both options and give almost the same setting and warranty services. A few high-end luxury brands, however, only use natural diamonds for production. These also require the same care and maintenance for long-term retention.