Do Lab Grown Diamonds Pass a Diamond Tester?
July 20, 2023
Diamonds have long been coveted for their beauty, rarity, and enduring value. With advances in technology, lab-grown diamonds have emerged as a popular alternative to natural diamonds, offering ethical and sustainable options for consumers. As lab-grown diamonds become more prevalent in the market, a common question arises: Can a lab-grown diamond pass a diamond tester?
Understanding Diamond Testers:
Before delving into the question, let's understand what a diamond tester is and how it works. A diamond tester is a handheld electronic device used by jewelers and gemologists to quickly determine whether a gemstone is a real diamond or a simulant (a non-diamond material that may look like a diamond).
Most diamond testers operate based on the principle of thermal conductivity. Diamonds have high thermal conductivity compared to most other gemstones, meaning they efficiently conduct heat. When a diamond is touched to the probe of a diamond tester, it quickly disperses heat, causing the tester to indicate that it is a real diamond. Simulants, like cubic zirconia or moissanite, have lower thermal conductivity and will not produce the same result on the tester.
Lab-Grown Diamonds and Thermal Conductivity:
Lab-grown diamonds, also known as synthetic or cultured diamonds, are created using advanced technology that replicates the natural diamond-growing process. They are chemically, optically, and physically identical to mined diamonds, including their high thermal conductivity. As a result, lab-grown diamonds will usually pass a standard diamond tester, just like natural diamonds.
Differentiating Lab-Grown Diamonds from Natural Diamonds:
While diamond testers are effective in distinguishing diamonds from simulants, they cannot determine the diamond's origin—whether it is lab-grown or natural. Both types of diamonds will register as "diamonds" on the tester due to their similar thermal conductivity.
To differentiate between lab-grown and natural diamonds, more advanced testing methods are required. Gemological laboratories, such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and the International Gemological Institute (IGI), use specialized equipment like spectroscopy to analyze the diamond's growth patterns and chemical composition. These tests can conclusively determine whether a diamond is lab-grown or natural.
The Role of Certifications:
For consumers seeking assurance about the diamond's origin, certifications from reputable gemological laboratories are invaluable. GIA and IGI are well-known organizations that provide certification for both lab-grown and natural diamonds. These certifications offer details about the diamond's quality, including the 4Cs (carat weight, color, clarity, and cut), and explicitly state whether the diamond is lab-grown or natural.
Jewelers often rely on these certifications to provide transparency and build trust with customers. By presenting a certification from a reputable lab, the jeweler confirms the authenticity and quality of the diamond, regardless of whether it is lab-grown or natural.
At LL Private Jewellers, we offer IGI, GCAL, and GIA certified lab-grown diamonds. Our commitment to providing transparency and quality ensures that you can confidently choose from a stunning selection of lab-grown diamonds with certifications from reputable gemological laboratories. Discover the beauty, ethics, and value of lab diamonds in our collection, and make an informed choice with the support of our knowledgeable team. Find your perfect lab-grown diamond and create a meaningful piece of jewelry that reflects both your style and values. Visit our store today to explore the world of lab diamonds and experience personalized service tailored to your needs.
Conclusion:
Lab-grown diamonds do pass a standard diamond tester due to their high thermal conductivity, which is identical to that of natural diamonds. However, a diamond tester alone cannot determine whether a diamond is lab-grown or mined. For a conclusive identification, more sophisticated testing methods and certifications from reputable gemological laboratories are required.
Lab-grown diamonds offer a compelling and sustainable alternative to natural diamonds, allowing consumers to make ethical choices without compromising on the beauty and brilliance of a genuine diamond. As the popularity of lab-grown diamonds continues to grow, consumers can trust reputable jewelers and gemologists to provide accurate information and certifications to help them make informed and confident decisions when purchasing these exquisite gems.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers About Lab Diamond Test
Do lab grown diamonds test real?
Yes, lab-grown diamonds test as real diamonds. They possess the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as natural diamonds, making them indistinguishable from mined diamonds in most tests.
Will lab created diamonds test as real diamonds?
Yes, lab-created diamonds will test as real diamonds. Their identical composition and characteristics to natural diamonds mean they pass standard diamond tests with the same results.
How do you test lab grown diamonds?
Lab-grown diamonds are tested using various methods, including thermal conductivity tests with a diamond tester. More sophisticated techniques like spectroscopy are employed to differentiate between lab-grown and natural diamonds.
Will lab made diamonds pass the diamond tester?
Yes, lab-made diamonds will pass a standard diamond tester due to their high thermal conductivity, which is similar to natural diamonds.
Can you test If a diamond is lab-grown or mined?
Yes, advanced testing methods such as spectroscopy can determine whether a diamond is mined or lab-grown based on its growth patterns and chemical composition. Reputable gemological laboratories like GIA, IGI, and GCAL provide certifications to identify the origin of a diamond.
How does a diamond tester tell if a diamond is real?
A diamond tester determines if a diamond is real based on its thermal conductivity. Diamonds have high thermal conductivity, meaning they disperse heat quickly. When a diamond is touched to the probe of a diamond tester, it reacts by efficiently conducting the heat away from the probe, indicating that it is a real diamond. On the other hand, simulants, like cubic zirconia or moissanite, have lower thermal conductivity, causing the tester to give a different response, distinguishing them from real diamonds.
