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How are Lab-Grown Diamonds made?

Lab-grown diamonds are created using one of two main methods: high-pressure high temperature (HPHT) or chemical vapor deposition (CVD).

The HPHT method involves placing a small diamond seed in a press and applying pressure and heat to simulate the conditions that exist in the earth's mantle, where natural diamonds form. The pressure and temperature used in the HPHT process are similar to those found deep beneath the earth's surface, where natural diamonds form.

The CVD method involves introducing a gas mixture containing carbon atoms into a chamber and using heat and a substrate to deposit the carbon atoms onto a surface, where they form into a diamond. The substrate is typically a small piece of diamond or a substrate made of a material that is conducive to diamond growth, such as silicon carbide. The gas mixture is introduced into the chamber, where it is heated to a high temperature. As the gas breaks down, it releases carbon atoms, which then deposit onto the substrate and form a diamond.

Both the HPHT and CVD methods are used to create high-quality lab-grown diamonds that are virtually indistinguishable from natural diamonds. The process of creating lab-grown diamonds involves replicating the high-pressure and high-temperature conditions that exist deep beneath the earth's surface, where natural diamonds form.

Lab Grown Diamonds vs. Natural Diamonds

Lab-grown diamonds and natural diamonds are both types of diamonds, but they have some differences. Lab-grown diamonds are diamonds that are created in a laboratory rather than being mined from the earth. They are made of the same material as natural diamonds and have the same chemical, physical, and optical properties as natural diamonds. Natural diamonds, on the other hand, are diamonds that are formed deep beneath the earth's surface over millions of years. They are mined and then cut and polished to be used in jewelry.

Some people may prefer lab-grown diamonds because they are more environmentally friendly and ethical, as they do not require mining, which can have negative impacts on the environment and local communities. Natural diamonds may be preferred by some people because they are considered rare and unique, as they are formed over a long period of time and are not readily reproducible in a laboratory. Ultimately, the choice between lab-grown and natural diamonds depends on personal preference and priorities.

Lab Grown Diamonds vs. Diamond Simulants

Diamond simulants are materials that are designed to look like diamonds but are not made of the same material. Some common diamond simulants include cubic zirconia, moissanite, and white sapphire. These simulants are often much cheaper than natural diamonds or lab-grown diamonds and are used as a more affordable alternative in jewelry.

It is important to note that while diamond simulants may look similar to diamonds, they do not have the same physical and chemical properties as diamonds. They are not as hard as diamonds and may not have the same level of brilliance or fire.

Lab-created diamonds have thermal conductivity properties that differentiate them from cubic zirconia with a handheld diamond tester. Some lab-grown diamonds, along with some naturally colored diamonds, may be mistakenly identified as moissanite when using certain diamond testers due to the similarity in their electrical conductivity. However, gemologists can typically distinguish between diamond and moissanite due to their differing refractive properties, with moissanite being double refractive and diamonds being single refractive.

What Are The Benefits of Lab-Grown Diamonds?

They are more environmentally friendly: Lab-grown diamonds do not require mining, which can have negative impacts on the environment and local communities.

They are often more affordable: Lab-grown diamonds are typically less expensive than natural diamonds, as the process of creating them in a laboratory is more efficient and cost-effective than mining diamonds from the earth.

They are often higher quality: Because lab-grown diamonds are created in a controlled environment, they can be produced with fewer defects and inclusions than natural diamonds. This means they may be of higher quality and have a more brilliant and sparkling appearance.

They are ethically produced: Some people may prefer lab-grown diamonds because they are not associated with the ethical issues that can sometimes arise with natural diamonds, such as conflict diamonds or diamonds that are mined in areas with poor working conditions.

They are available in a wider range of colors: Lab-grown diamonds can be produced in a wider range of colors than natural diamonds, including colors that are rare or unavailable in natural diamonds.

Overall, lab-grown diamonds offer a number of benefits and may be a good choice for those who are looking for a diamond that is more environmentally friendly, affordable, or high-quality.

How Are Lab Grown Diamonds Certified And Graded?

Lab-grown diamonds are typically certified and graded by independent organizations that specialize in evaluating diamonds. These organizations use standardized methods to assess the quality of lab-grown diamonds and provide a certification that attests to their quality.

One of the main organizations that certify and grade lab-grown diamonds is the International Gemological Institute (IGI). The IGI uses a grading system that is similar to the one used for natural diamonds, and it issues certificates that provide information about a diamond's 4C's: cut, color, clarity, and carat weight. The IGI also uses specialized equipment and techniques to evaluate the quality of lab-grown diamonds, including microscopes, lasers, and spectroscopes.

Other organizations that certify and grade lab-grown diamonds include the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and the American Gem Society (AGS). These organizations use similar grading systems and techniques to evaluate the quality of lab-grown diamonds and provide certificates attesting to their quality.

What Are Sustainably Rated Lab Grown Diamonds?

Together, with our partners, we are creating new standards in sustainable lab-grown diamond production. This collection of lab-grown diamonds is independently Sustainably Rated based on climate neutrality efforts and investments in clean technology, enhancing an already responsible choice.

Sustainably rated lab-grown diamonds are lab-grown diamonds that have been certified as being produced in a way that is environmentally and socially responsible. These diamonds may be certified by organizations that specialize in evaluating the sustainability of lab-grown diamonds and providing a rating based on their environmental and social impact.
Several organizations provide sustainability ratings for lab-grown diamonds, including the International Gemological Institute (IGI), the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), and the American Gem Society (AGS). These organizations use standardized methods to assess the sustainability of lab-grown diamonds based on factors such as the energy consumption and carbon emissions of the production process, the working conditions of employees, and the impact on local communities.

Sustainably rated lab-grown diamonds may be preferred by some people because they are produced in a way that is more environmentally and socially responsible than traditional diamond mining. They may also be considered more ethical, as they are not associated with the negative impacts that can sometimes arise with natural diamonds, such as conflict diamonds or diamonds that are mined in areas with poor working conditions.

Lab-Grown Diamonds FAQ

Are lab-grown diamonds less expensive than mined diamonds?

Lab-grown diamonds offer excellent value, and are more affordable than natural diamonds of comparable size and quality.

Do lab-diamonds test as real diamonds?

Yes, lab-grown diamonds are made of the same material as natural diamonds and have the same chemical, physical, and optical properties as natural diamonds. This means that lab-grown diamonds will test as real diamonds using standard diamond testing methods.

Diamond testing involves using specialized equipment and techniques to determine whether a diamond is genuine. Some common methods used to test diamonds include:

Thermal conductivity test: This test measures the ability of a diamond to conduct heat. Diamonds are excellent conductors of heat, so a diamond that conducts heat well is likely to be genuine.

Refractive index test: This test measures the refraction of light as it passes through a diamond. Diamonds have a high refractive index, so a diamond that has a high refractive index is likely to be genuine.

Ultraviolet fluorescence test: This test involves exposing a diamond to ultraviolet light and observing the fluorescence of the diamond. Diamonds typically fluoresce blue under ultraviolet light, so a diamond that fluoresces blue is likely to be genuine.

Hardness test: This test measures the hardness of a diamond using the Mohs scale. Diamonds are the hardest known mineral and have a hardness of 10 on the Mohs scale, so a diamond that is hard enough to score a 10 on the Mohs scale is likely to be genuine.

Overall, lab-grown diamonds will test as real diamonds using standard diamond testing methods because they are made of the same material and have the same properties as natural diamonds.

What does it mean if lab grown diamond is treated?

If a lab-grown diamond is treated, it means that the diamond has undergone some type of alteration or enhancement to improve its appearance or quality. There are several different types of treatments that can be applied to lab-grown diamonds, including:

Clarity enhancement: This involves filling in fractures or imperfections in the diamond to improve its clarity. This treatment is often used on diamonds that have visible inclusions or blemishes.

Color enhancement: This involves altering the color of the diamond to make it more attractive. This treatment is often used on diamonds that are naturally yellow or brown in color.

Surface treatment: This involves altering the surface of the diamond to improve its appearance. This treatment is often used on diamonds that have scratches or other blemishes on the surface.

It is important to note that treated lab-grown diamonds may not be as valuable as untreated diamonds because the treatment can affect the diamond's quality and durability. It is also important to be aware that treated diamonds may require special care and handling to maintain their appearance. If you are considering purchasing a treated lab-grown diamond, it is a good idea to ask the seller about the type of treatment that has been applied and any special care instructions that may be necessary

Do lab-grown diamonds get cloudy?

Since they are physically and chemically the same as mined diamonds, lab-created diamonds do not have lower durability and will not get cloudy over time.

Are lab-grown diamonds a good investment?

Customers looking for a mining-free alternative or a larger stone within their budget may prefer lab diamonds as they are generally at a lower price point compared to naturally mined options. As with any gemstone, the resale value can vary over time. Since lab diamonds are a more recent introduction to the market, there is more uncertainty on future pricing, when compared to natural diamonds.

Can you insured lab grown diamonds?

Yes, it is possible to insure lab-grown diamonds. Many insurance companies offer coverage for jewelry, including lab-grown diamonds, as part of a standard home insurance policy or as a separate policy.

If you want to insure a lab-grown diamond, you will need to provide information about the diamond, such as its size, quality, and value. You may also need to provide documentation, such as a certificate of authenticity or appraisal, to verify the diamond's characteristics.

It's important to note that the terms of the insurance policy may vary depending on the insurer, so it's a good idea to carefully review the policy before purchasing it. Some policies may have exclusions or limits on coverage for certain types of damage or loss, so it's important to understand what is and is not covered.

If you are considering insuring a lab-grown diamond, it may be a good idea to shop around and compare policies from different insurers to find the one that best meets your needs. It's also a good idea to discuss your insurance options with a financial professional or insurance agent who can help you make an informed decision.

Lab Grown Diamonds

Why Choose Lab-Grown Diamonds?

Mining Free

Beauty and Quality

Value

Affordable

What are Lab-Grown Diamonds?