Lab Grown vs Natural Diamonds
Are Lab Grown Diamonds Real Diamonds?
Let's get educated on lab grown stones!
There is a stigma around purchasing lab grown stones, rather than natural diamonds, but the differences between the two are commonly misconstrued. Let’s start by answering the big question, what are lab grown diamonds?
Lab grown diamonds are man-made diamonds that share the exact same qualities as natural diamonds grown deep within the Earth. Unlike diamond alternatives such as cubic zirconia or moissanite, Lab Grown Diamonds are real diamonds! Chemically, physically, and optically, lab grown stones are the same as naturally grown diamonds, and the only way to differentiate the two is by using a high tech computer. The two are indistinguishable to the naked eye, even a trained jeweler's eye. Both are composed of carbon atoms and are incredibly durable (diamond is the hardest known mineral on earth!) Lab Grown Diamonds are just as durable as their natural counterparts. Think of it this way, if a child is conceived through IVF rather than naturally, are they not a real person? Of course they are! They just have a different origin story.
The same diamond features of clarity, cut, carat, and color apply to lab grown diamonds, and they still receive certification through the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and International Gemological Institute (IGI). As its name suggests, lab grown diamonds are grown in a lab through one of two processes:
Chemical Vapor Deposition Diamonds (CVD)
This process starts by taking a small sliver of a natural diamond, known as a “diamond seed,” and placing it in a chamber. While in the chamber, heated gasses cause layers of carbon to form on the diamond seed. From here, the seed grows into a diamond crystal that is then cut and polished for use in jewelry.
High Pressure High Temperature Diamonds (HPHT)
A thinly sliced natural diamond seed is also used in this process. The diamond seed is put in a very large machine that replicates the same conditions that natural diamonds require. Using extreme pressure and temperature, the machine grows the seed into a diamond crystal, that is then cut and polished to be used in jewelry.
Both processes create legitimate diamonds and cannot be told apart from each other with the naked eye.
Biggest PRO of Lab Grown Diamonds?
You save A LOT of money going with lab grown diamonds! Although both lab and natural diamonds are the same in almost every way, lab diamonds are currently 60%-70% cheaper than natural diamonds. If you want a big center stone on a not-so big budget, you should consider a lab grown diamond. You can get the highest color, clarity, and carat weight at an affordable cost. With it being affordable, lab grown diamonds are still high in quality and purity. Not even a master jeweler is able to tell the difference between lab or natural diamonds unless they are using proper tools. Not only that, but they are also much more ethical and sustainable for the Earth.
Here at Brax Jewelers, we offer an extensive line of lab grown diamond engagement rings and other fine jewelry. Join us in store to explore a wide variety of lab grown jewelry options and ready made engagement rings! Get a personal look at our broad selection of:
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Ready-Made Engagement Rings
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Diamond Ring Settings
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A Variety of Loose Diamonds
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Diamond Studs
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Tennis Bracelets
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Necklaces
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Custom Jewelry Designs