What Are Laboratory Grown Diamonds?
The last few years have seen a substantial increase in laboratory grown diamonds as an alternative for jewelry, especially engagement rings. So, what exactly are lab grown diamonds and why are they popular?
Are lab grown diamonds real?
Yes, lab grown diamonds share the same chemical, physical, and crystal structures as a natural diamond. Both are made of tightly bonded carbon atoms.
What is the difference?
Origin!
Lab grown diamonds are engineered or “grown” in a laboratory using technology to mimic nature. Lab diamonds are grown two different ways, using high pressure high temperature (HPHT) or by chemical vapor deposition (CVD). Since lab grown diamonds are made by carbon atoms arranged in the same crystal structure as natural diamond, they exhibit optical and chemical properties identical to natural earth grown diamonds.
A great everyday example GIA (Gemological Institute of America) made was,
“Think of it this way: laboratory-grown diamonds are like ice from your refrigerator, while natural diamonds are like ice from a glacier. They are both ice, although their formation stories and the age of each are very different.”
Raw crystal shape varies based on the growth method used. Above are a CVD (left), HPHT (middle), and natural diamond (right). The CVD shows non-diamond carbon growth along the edges. Natural diamonds grow in an Octahedral shape and can have trigons, which are triangular surface features that occur during the natural growth process. Photo courtesy of GIA.
Why are people buying lab grown diamonds?
Price! Lab grown diamonds are less expensive. This allows customers to shop larger stones, while maximizing their budget.
Are simulated diamonds the same thing?
No. Simulants (e.g. cubic zirconia, glass, moissanite) do NOT have the same physical or chemical properties. These are also used regularly as an alternative in jewelry, as their prices are much lower than lab or natural diamonds. However, they can be distinguished by the naked eye, by a Gemologist. Diamonds are singly refractive and moissanites are doubly refractive. Simulants also pose the risk of durability, as they are significantly less durable than diamonds, causing them to be more susceptible to scratching or breaking.
How much do lab grown diamonds cost?
Similar to natural diamonds the cost varies based on the 4 c’s of diamond quality. However, lab grown diamonds are priced lower than natural diamonds of comparable quality.
Why are lab grown diamonds more affordable?
Lab grown diamonds are more affordable because they are grown in a controlled environment and can be manufactured in a higher quantity in a shorter period of time. Natural diamonds form deep in the mantle of earth spontaneously, and require lamproite and kimberlite pipes (naturally occurring volcanic conduit) to transport them to the surface where we can mine them.
Are lab grown diamonds a “good investment?”
We cannot predict or recommend what is or is not a good investment, but we receive this question a lot. We recommend purchasing a lab grown as a symbol of love and as something that can be passed down generations. As technology advances and the process becomes quicker and less costly, prices could potentially drop. There is also a chance prices could appreciate, only time can tell.
Could my diamonds test as moissanite?
You may or may not have seen tiktoks of different people using diamond testers to test strangers' jewelry, and it showing up as moissanite. These diamond testers use electrical conductivity and are not always accurate. They were intended as a quick identifier at the counter when taking in jewelry for repair, they are NOT intended as conclusive testing. That is why jewelers and gemologists use other tests to determine what a stone is.
How long does it take to make a lab grown diamond?
The length of time depends on the size and quality of the wanted stone. On average it takes five to ten weeks to grow.
*Our passion lies in the gemological side of all things jewelry. We love discussing topics like this, email us at info@arojewelers.com for topics you want to see us cover, or to further discuss topics we have covered. 