Lab Grown vs Natural Diamonds: What You Need to Know

As more people understand the ethics and affordability of lab-grown diamonds, the conversation around lab-grown vs. natural diamonds is starting to gain traction. Diamonds are generally defined as natural diamonds that take shape under the crust of the Earth over eons. Through a new technology, Lab-Grown Diamonds are blessing mankind. Aren't they too hard to hold a candle to the mined diamond?

Natural Diamonds have always been known for luxury and value. However, lab diamonds are becoming popular due to ethical and environmental reasons. How does that compare in terms of quality, price, and how long they last? Is one truly better than the other? We'll examine lab-grown and natural diamonds, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of each, and we'll help you make an informed decision regarding your diamond purchase.

Key Takeaway

1. Affordability and Ethics: Lab-grown diamonds offer an affordable and ethical alternative to natural diamonds. No mining is required, and they have a significantly lower price tag. However, they maintain the same brilliance, durability, and hardness as natural diamonds.
   
   

2. Environmental Impact: Unlike natural diamonds, which have a significant environmental footprint due to mining, lab-grown diamonds are created in a controlled environment, making them a more eco-friendly choice.
   
   

3. Creation Methods: Lab-grown diamonds are produced using two main methods, HPHT and CVD. Both of these methods mimic the natural diamond formation process, resulting in diamonds that are chemically and physically identical to their mined counterparts.
   
   

4. Longevity and Value: Lab-grown diamonds last just as long as natural diamonds, but they may have a lower resale value due to their on-demand production and abundance compared to the rarity of mined diamonds.

What is a Lab Grown Diamond?

A lab-grown diamond is one created in a lab through advanced processes to mimic natural diamond growth. There are two main ways to make diamonds: high-pressure, High-Temperature diamonds and Chemical Vapor Deposition diamonds.

These are not quite like your average fakes; although they were made in a lab, they are chemically, physically, and optically identical to natural diamonds. Graphite and diamonds are made up of pure carbon atoms. The only difference is in the origin of each. One takes millions of years to generate naturally, whereas the other takes weeks to make in a lab. 

Lab-grown diamonds have the same hardness (10 on the Mohs scale), brilliance, and fire as natural diamonds. They are graded using the same 4Cs: cut, colour, clarity, and carat weight. 

Lab Diamonds vs. Natural Diamonds

When we compare lab-grown vs Natural Diamonds, there are quite a few differences worth looking at.

1. The origin of the diamond is its most obvious difference. Lab-grown diamonds are made in laboratories, while natural diamonds form deep inside the Earth under high heat and pressure. Lab-created diamonds are ready in just a few weeks, whereas natural diamonds take millions of years to form.
   
   

2. Diamonds are available at different prices. Lab-grown diamonds are generally 20-40% more affordable than natural diamonds. This is because it takes less time to produce lab-grown diamonds, and there are no mining costs. Lab-grown diamonds are a perfect choice for consumers on a budget as they come at a reasonable price.
   
   

3. Ethical Considerations: Lab-grown diamonds are not mined and are said to be more ethical than natural diamonds, which have an environmental footprint. Natural diamond mining can destroy ecosystems, pollute the environment, exploit workers, and fund wars in conflict areas. People see Lab-Grown Diamonds as an ethical option free of mining sustainability issues. The same cannot be said about real diamonds.
   
   

4. Natural diamonds are rarer because they have taken millions of years to create. Their scarcity adds to their mystique and value. Lab-created diamonds are not only identical to natural diamonds, but they can also be produced on demand. Moreover, they can also be made in large quantities.

Lab Diamonds vs. Real Diamonds - What are the Differences?

Are lab-grown diamonds real diamonds? One of the most frequently asked questions is about lab-grown diamonds. They have the same physical and optical properties as diamonds. The only difference lies in the origin of their creation. The establishment of lab-grown diamonds is not a fake thing or simulated; it is a real diamond that will only grow in a controlled laboratory, much like nature, but more specifically, it does not happen in the depths of the Earth.

Lab-grown diamonds are just as brilliant, durable, and sparkling as natural diamonds. Lab-created diamonds are less expensive than natural diamonds, as they are made quickly and will soon be available in heaps. The only noticeable difference is the price tag.

How Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Made?

Lab-grown diamonds are made using two primary methods.

1. HPHT Diamonds:This method imitates the conditions that the Earth uses to form natural diamonds. Diamonds are formed when carbon is put under a lot of pressure and heat to crystallize it. This method has been in use for decades since it was first designed for the manufacture of synthetic diamonds used for industrial purposes.

2. Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD): In this method, a gas containing carbon is heated in a vacuum chamber to create a plasma. The carbon atoms settle on a diamond seed, where they eventually build up to form a diamond. The CVD process is more likely to be utilized in the creation of gem-quality lab-grown diamonds, and it offers more control over the final product size, clarity, and colour.

The diamonds created through both techniques are chemically similar to diamonds found in nature. Advanced gem testing is the only way to tell if a diamond is lab-made or natural.

What is the Difference Between CVD and HPHT Diamonds?

The method of creation is the major difference between CVD and HPHT diamonds.

1. CVD Diamonds: CVD diamonds are usually formed under low pressure, using chemically activated gases to develop diamond crystals. Fewer inclusions and more consistency characterize the diamonds that result from CVD. CVD diamonds can be created larger and with fewer impurities than mined diamonds.

2. HPHT Diamonds: HPHT diamonds are made by mimicking Earth's running conditions of high pressure and temperature. This technique creates diamonds that are closer to natural diamond inclusions and is mainly employed for creating diamonds with more color variation. HPHT diamonds cost less to manufacture than CVD diamonds, but they also have more flaws. This results from the extreme heat and pressure that go into their creation.
   
   

CVD and HPHT diamonds are both real diamonds created in the lab, but they have some differences in colour, size, and cost.

Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Real?

Yes, lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds. Natural and synthetic diamonds have identical chemical and physical characteristics. Synthetic diamonds are made of pure carbon. The phrase 'lab-grown' indicates how it was created, not a real diamond. Synthetic diamonds are examined and assessed according to the grading utilized within the industry to assess natural diamond quality and gem grade.

Lab-grown diamonds are real in every way, but their origin is the only factor that differentiates them from natural diamonds. Are you concerned about the way minerals are mined or their effect on the environment? If so, lab-grown diamonds are a real option that is conflict-free.

Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Good?

Yes, if you are looking for a high-quality, ethical, and affordable diamond, lab-grown diamonds are a great option. Synthetic Diamonds are as Brilliant as Natural Diamonds. They come in various cuts, colors, and sizes, and the quality is guaranteed. They have similar hardness and will not lose physical properties over time. Lab-grown diamonds are an excellent choice for consumers who seek savings without sacrificing quality.

Since lab diamonds aren't mined, they are a more sustainable and ethical choice. Because lab-grown diamonds cost less than natural diamonds, you can buy a bigger and better stone for a smaller price.

Pros of Lab-Grown Diamonds

1. Affordability: Lab-grown diamonds can cost significantly less than natural diamonds, making them a great choice for those on a budget.
   
   

2. Ethical Sourcing: Lab-grown diamonds do not come from conflict zones, making them a more ethical choice for consumers who are concerned about the impact of diamond mining.
   
   

3. Environmental Benefits: Lab-grown diamonds have a smaller environmental footprint than mined diamonds because they do not require extensive mining operations.
   
   

4. Identical to Natural Diamonds: Lab-grown diamonds are chemically and physically identical to natural diamonds. They are just as durable, brilliant, and long-lasting.

Cons of Lab-Grown Diamonds

1. Lower Resale Value: Lab-grown diamonds may not retain their value as well as natural diamonds. While natural diamonds are rare and often appreciated in value, lab-grown diamonds are created on demand and may not hold the same value in the resale market.
   
   

2. Perceived Value: Some consumers may still view natural diamonds as more prestigious or valuable than lab-grown diamonds due to their rarity and long history.

GIA Certified Lab Created Diamonds

A lab-created diamond must be GIA approved in order to ensure its quality. GIA is the world's foremost authority on diamond grading and certifies natural diamonds as well as diamond hybrids. A diamond comes with a GIA certification which guarantees that any diamond with GIA certificate is graded on the 4Cs cut, clarity, color and carat weight and thus assures the buyer of its quality. 

Should I Get a Lab-Grown Diamond Engagement Ring?

Engagement Rings, either lab-grown diamond engagement rings or natural diamond engagement rings, are really a personal choice depending on their budget and values. A lab-grown diamond can be the perfect choice if you want to avoid hefty price tags while keeping the quality intact and also contributing to Mother Nature. Lab-created diamonds are just as stunning, hard-wearing, and durable as naturally occurring diamonds.

If you prefer the rarity and timelessness of a natural diamond or are concerned with its resale value, you are likely better off with a natural diamond. Miro Jewelers offers engagement rings with lab-created or natural diamonds. Choose the ring that fits your style and budget.

Lab Diamonds and Natural Diamonds - Frequently Asked Questions

Do Lab-Grown Diamonds Last As Long as Natural Diamonds?

Yes, lab-grown diamonds last just as long as natural diamonds. Both are made of the same material, carbon, and have the same hardness, making them just as durable.

Why Are Lab-Grown Diamonds More Affordable Than Natural Diamonds?

Lab-grown diamonds are Budget-friendly because they are created in a controlled lab environment, which takes far less time and resources compared to the millions of years it takes for natural diamonds to form.

How Long Does It Take To Make a Lab-Grown Diamond?

It takes a few weeks to a few months to create a lab-grown diamond, depending on the method used. CVD diamonds tend to take longer to grow than HPHT diamonds.

Is It Possible To Make a Lab-Grown Diamond at Home?

No, it is not possible to make a lab-grown diamond at home. The creation of lab-grown diamonds requires specialized equipment and a controlled environment, which cannot be replicated at home.

Do Lab-Grown Diamonds Come in Different Colors?

Yes, lab-grown diamonds come in a variety of colors, including yellow, blue, and pink. These colors can be produced naturally during the growing process or modified through certain treatments.

How Do You Choose the Best Lab-Created Diamond for Your Ring?

When choosing a lab-created diamond, consider the 4Cs: cut, color, clarity, and carat weight. Be sure to select a diamond that meets your preferences in terms of appearance and budget, and ensure that it is certified by a reputable institution like the GIA.

Why Are Human-Made Diamonds Called ‘Synthetic Diamonds’?

Human-made diamonds are often called synthetic diamonds because they are not formed naturally, but are real diamonds with the same physical properties. The term "synthetic" refers to their origin, not their quality or composition.

Do you have more questions related to “Lab Grown vs Natural Diamonds”? Call us at +1-303-393-8881 or email info@mirojewelers.com to clarify your doubts. Our expert support team is here to help.