WHAT IS A LAB GROWN DIAMOND? A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE
Diamonds have long been celebrated as symbols of love, commitment, and luxury. Traditionally, these precious gemstones are mined from the Earth; however, advancements in technology have introduced a new player to the diamond industry: lab grown diamonds.
Lab grown diamonds are becoming increasingly popular, especially for engagement rings. They offer a sustainable and ethical alternative to natural diamonds without compromising on quality or brilliance. Whether you're searching for the perfect eco-friendly engagement ring or simply want to learn more about lab grown diamonds, this guide has everything you need to know.
Creation of lab grown diamonds
Lab grown diamonds, also known as synthetic or cultured diamonds, are real diamonds created in a controlled environment rather than being mined from the Earth. They have the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as natural diamonds. The primary difference lies in their origin.
There are two main methods used to create lab grown diamonds:
High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT): This method simulates the high-pressure, high-temperature conditions found deep within the Earth’s mantle. Carbon is subjected to these extreme conditions, resulting in diamond formation. HPHT diamonds can be virtually identical to natural diamonds in both appearance and structure.
Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD): In this method, a diamond seed is placed in a chamber filled with carbon-rich gases. The gases are ionised to create a plasma, which deposits carbon onto the seed, forming a diamond. CVD diamonds are known for their high purity and can be customised to specific qualities.
Benefits of lab grown diamonds
Ethical considerations: Lab grown diamonds offer our clients a transparent and ethical choice, as you can be assured of the origins and production conditions of the diamonds. We ensure the highest ethical standards for both lab grown and mined diamonds by working exclusively with top global suppliers. This guarantees that all diamonds, regardless of their origin, are conflict-free and ethically sourced.
Environmental impact: Lab grown diamonds offer a more eco-friendly alternative to natural diamonds as they are ‘grown’ in controlled environments, which reduces the impact on the natural ecosystem and lowers the overall carbon footprint. Lab grown diamonds offer a sustainable alternative without depleting natural reserves.
Affordability: Lab grown diamonds are generally more affordable than their natural counterparts. Because they are created in a lab rather than mined, their production costs are lower.
Customisation: Lab grown diamonds can be customised to meet specific requirements. Whether you’re looking for a particular colour, clarity, or size, lab grown diamonds can be tailored to your preferences.
Quality: Lab grown diamonds are often produced with fewer inclusions and imperfections than natural diamonds. The controlled environment in which they are grown allows for the production of diamonds with high purity and consistent quality.
Choosing a lab grown diamond
When selecting a lab grown diamond, consider:
The Four Cs: Just like natural diamonds, lab grown diamonds are evaluated based on the Four Cs - carat, colour, cut, and clarity.
Certification: By commissioning us, you can enjoy the assurance of a transparent and ethical choice, confident in the knowledge that your diamonds are sourced responsibly and sustainably. We exclusively source and provide our clients with GIA-certified diamonds, whether they are natural or lab grown. This certification ensures that each diamond comes with detailed information about its characteristics and verifies its authenticity, giving you peace of mind about the quality and origin of your purchase.
The future of lab diamonds
The lab grown diamond industry is rapidly evolving, with continuous advancements in technology and growing consumer acceptance. As more people become aware of the benefits and ethical considerations associated with lab grown diamonds, their popularity is likely to increase. The industry’s commitment to sustainability, combined with the high quality and affordability of lab grown diamonds, positions them as a significant player in the future of the diamond market.
By understanding the differences between lab grown and natural diamonds and considering factors such as the Four Cs, we can help you can make an informed decision and find a diamond that perfectly suits your needs and preferences.