Are Lab Grown Diamonds Real? Here's The Truth

October 12, 2023

Yes, lab-grown diamonds, also known as synthetic diamonds, man-made, or cultured diamonds, are indeed real diamonds. They possess the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as mined diamonds. The primary distinction between the two lies in their origin.

Are Lab Grown Diamonds Real? Explained

A Historical Perspective

Interestingly, the journey of synthesizing diamonds isn’t new. The first successful synthesis was achieved in the 1950s. Initially, lab-grown diamonds were primarily used for industrial applications due to their hardness, such as in cutting and drilling tools. Over time, advancements in technology have enabled the production of larger, gem-quality synthetic diamonds that have paved their way into the jewelry market.

Creation Process:

• Lab-Grown Diamonds: Created in laboratories using two primary methods: High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD). Both methods replicate the conditions under which natural diamonds develop.

• Natural Diamonds: Formed over millions to billions of years in the Earth’s mantle under extreme heat and pressure.

Properties:

• Physical Properties: Lab-grown and natural diamonds both exhibit high hardness, thermal conductivity, and a refractive index.

• Chemical Composition: Both are composed of carbon atoms arranged in a crystal lattice structure.

Certification and Quality:

• Certification: Lab-grown diamonds can be certified using grading standards similar to those used for natural diamonds. Agencies like the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and the International Gemological Institute (IGI) grade lab-grown diamonds.

• Quality: Lab-grown diamonds can be produced in high-quality forms and can even be made with fewer impurities and inclusions than many mined diamonds.

Market Perception:

• Price: Lab-grown diamonds tend to be more affordable than their natural counterparts, making them accessible to a broader consumer base.

• Perception: Some consumers prefer natural diamonds due to their rarity and natural origin, while others prefer lab-grown diamonds for ethical or economic reasons.

Customization and Personalization

Lab-grown diamonds also offer the exciting possibility of bespoke jewelry. Imagine having a stone created just for you, with the size, cut, and color you desire. The romanticism embedded in having something so unique and personal is undoubtedly a selling point, especially for those looking to celebrate love and commitment through engagement or wedding rings.

The Rainbow of Possibilities

One fascinating aspect is the ability to create colored diamonds in labs with more control and predictability. Natural colored diamonds, such as blue, pink, and yellow, are extremely rare and consequently expensive. Through careful control of the creation process, scientists can introduce different elements (such as boron or nitrogen) or manipulate growth conditions to produce beautifully colored lab-grown diamonds at a fraction of the price.

Conclusion

Yes, lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds with attributes nearly identical to those of mined diamonds. The consideration of choosing between them often boils down to personal preference, ethical considerations, and budget.

Also read - Do Lab Grown Diamonds Pass a Diamond Tester?

Frequently Asked Questions About Are Lab Grown Diamonds Real?

Are lab-grown diamonds certified and graded similarly to mined diamonds?

Yes, lab-grown diamonds can be certified and graded similarly to mined diamonds. Renowned gemological laboratories, like the GIA and IGI, grade lab-grown diamonds based on the 4Cs (Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat weight) and provide certification.

Why might consumers choose lab-grown diamonds over natural diamonds?

Consumers may prefer lab-grown diamonds for several reasons: they are often more affordable, can be produced with fewer imperfections, and are considered more ethical and environmentally friendly due to the absence of mining.

Read Lab Grown Diamonds vs Natural Diamonds for more details.

Are lab-grown diamonds eco-friendly?

While lab-growing diamonds involve energy use, they are generally considered more environmentally friendly than mined diamonds due to the lack of ecological disruption, absence of large-scale mining operations, and associated lower carbon emissions.

Can lab-grown diamonds be insured in the same way as natural diamonds?

Yes, lab-grown diamonds can be insured in the same way as natural diamonds. They can be assessed for their value and included in jewelry insurance policies, similar to their mined counterparts.