FAQs
Are lab grown diamonds real?
Yes, lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds. They are diamonds that are created using advanced technology in a laboratory setting, rather than being formed naturally over millions of years deep underground. Lab-grown diamonds have the same physical, chemical and optical properties as natural diamonds, and they are also graded and certified by the same organisations that evaluate natural diamonds. The only real difference between lab-grown and natural diamonds is their method of formation.
Can lab grown diamonds be GIA certified?
Yes, lab-grown diamonds can be GIA certified. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is one of the world's leading authorities on diamonds, and it offers certification for both natural and lab grown diamonds. GIA certification is widely regarded as the gold standard in the diamond industry, and it is a useful way to determine a diamond's value and quality. Lab-grown diamonds that are certified by the GIA will have a report that includes information about the diamond's cut, colour, clarity, and carat weight, as well as a diagram of its characteristics.
Certifications offered by Stella: BIS hallmark and SGL.
How lab grown diamonds are made ?
There are two main methods for growing diamonds in a laboratory setting: high-pressure high temperature (HPHT) and chemical vapour deposition (CVD).
The HPHT method involves recreating the high-pressure and high-temperature conditions that exist deep underground where natural diamonds are formed. To do this, a small diamond seed is placed in a machine that uses a combination of heat and pressure to cause the carbon atoms in the seed to rearrange and form a larger diamond crystal.
The CVD method involves using specialised equipment to create a gas mixture that is composed of carbon-containing gases, such as methane or acetylene. This gas mixture is then introduced into a vacuum chamber, where it is exposed to high temperatures and plasma. This causes the carbon atoms in the gas mixture to deposit onto a substrate, such as a diamond seed or a piece of diamond-coated silicon, and form a diamond crystal.
Both methods can be used to create diamonds with a wide range of sizes, shapes, and qualities, and they are constantly being improved and refined by scientists and engineers.
What are lab grown diamonds?
Lab-grown diamonds are diamonds that are created using advanced technology in a laboratory setting, rather than being formed naturally over millions of years deep underground. They have the same physical and chemical properties as natural diamonds, and they are also graded and
certified by the same organisations that evaluate natural diamonds. The only real difference between lab-grown and natural diamonds is their method of formation.
Lab-grown diamonds are created using one of two main methods: high-pressure high temperature (HPHT) or chemical vapour deposition (CVD). In the HPHT method, a small diamond seed is placed in a machine that uses a combination of heat and pressure to cause the carbon atoms in the seed to rearrange and form a larger diamond crystal. In the CVD method, a gas mixture that is composed of carbon-containing gases is introduced into a vacuum chamber, where it is exposed to high temperatures and plasma, causing the carbon atoms in the gas mixture to deposit onto a substrate and form a diamond crystal.
Lab-grown diamonds are often considered to be a more sustainable and ethical alternative to natural diamonds, as they do not require mining, which can have negative environmental impacts. They are also typically less expensive than natural diamonds of comparable quality.
When did lab grown diamonds start?
The first lab-grown diamonds were created in the 1950s, using the high-pressure high temperature (HPHT) method. However, the technology for growing diamonds in a laboratory setting has improved significantly since then, and the process has become more efficient and cost-effective. Today, lab-grown diamonds are widely available and are considered a viable alternative to natural diamonds.
It should be noted that the term "lab-grown diamond" is relatively new, and the diamonds that were created in the 1950s were not referred to as such at the time. They were simply called "synthetic diamonds" or "cultured diamonds," and it was not until more recently that the term "lab grown diamond" came into widespread use
Why are lab grown diamonds better?
There are several reasons why some people consider lab-grown diamonds to be better than natural diamonds. Some of the main benefits of lab-grown diamonds include:
They are more sustainable and ethical. Lab-grown diamonds do not require mining, which can have negative environmental impacts, such as deforestation and soil erosion. They are also not associated with the human rights abuses and conflicts that have sometimes been linked to the diamond mining industry
They are typically less expensive. Because lab-grown diamonds do not require the same amount of time and energy to produce as natural diamonds, they are often less expensive than natural diamonds of comparable quality. This can make them a more affordable option for people who are looking to purchase a diamond.
They offer more variety and customization. Lab-grown diamonds can be produced in a wider range of sizes, shapes, and colours than natural diamonds, which are limited by the conditions under which they are formed. This allows for more customization and personalization when it comes to choosing a diamond.
They are more pure and less likely to contain impurities. Lab-grown diamonds are created in a controlled environment, so they are less likely to contain impurities or defects than natural diamonds. This can make them more pure and of higher quality.
Of course, not everyone agrees that lab-grown diamonds are better than natural diamonds. Some people believe that natural diamonds are more valuable and desirable because of their rarity and the fact that they are formed naturally over millions of years. Ultimately, the decision of whether to
choosing a lab-grown or natural diamond is a personal one, and it depends on individual preferences and priorities.
Can lab grown diamonds be tested?
Yes! Lab-grown diamonds are tested and certified to the same standards as mined diamonds, using the same grading systems. You can have a lab-grown diamond tested by a reputable laboratory, such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the International Gemological Institute (IGI), and they will provide you with an official report on the diamond’s characteristics.
Lab-grown diamond versus a Natural diamond
The major differences between a lab-grown diamond and a real diamond are their origin and cost. Lab-grown diamonds are created in a laboratory in a controlled environment, while real diamonds are mined from the earth. Lab-grown diamonds also tend to be less expensive than real diamonds, depending on the size and quality of the diamond. Additionally, lab-grown diamonds are often slightly smaller than real diamonds and may have a more perfect symmetry and fewer inclusions.
Are lab grown diamonds the future?
Lab-grown diamonds certainly have a great potential to become the future of diamond buying. They are more affordable, eco-friendly, and conflict-free, and they look just as beautiful as mined diamonds. Furthermore, they are becoming increasingly popular due to their ability to provide customers with a wider range of choice that is more in line with their budget and ethical preferences. As technology advances, the quality and accessibility of lab-grown diamonds will only continue to improve, making them an ideal choice for those looking for a sustainable and ethical way to purchase diamonds.
Any factoids?
1 CARAT of Lab Grown Diamond can SAVE:
109 Gallons of water
250 Tonnes of land