Lab vs Natural Diamonds
In the last few years, the emerging laboratory-grown diamonds have risen rapidly in the diamond market. By 2024, more than half of all engagement rings sold in the United States will feature lab-grown diamonds. This reflects their growing popularity. So, should you choose a lab-grown diamond for your engagement ring setting? Let's take a closer look at where lab diamonds came from and how they compare to natural diamonds.
What is a lab-grown diamond?
Lab-grown diamonds are artificially created in a laboratory by mimicking the natural process of diamond formation. While they share the same chemical composition and physical properties as natural diamonds, lab-grown diamonds are typically more affordable, providing consumers with a budget-friendly option. The primary difference between the two lies in their source: one is produced in a lab, and the other is mined from the earth.
Recent technological advancements have made it possible to create synthetic diamonds that are almost indistinguishable from their natural counterparts. These lab-grown diamonds can be very difficult to identify with the naked eye and usually require specialized equipment for detection.
There are two main methods used to manufacture lab diamonds: High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD). Both processes begin with pure carbon seeds and simulate conditions similar to natural diamond formation, resulting in lab diamonds that are virtually identical to mined diamonds.
These developments in technology are truly remarkable. By replicating the natural diamond formation process, we have created lab-grown diamonds that match the quality of natural ones, all while providing a more affordable option for consumers.
Sources of development of laboratory diamonds
The development of laboratory diamonds began in the mid-20th century when scientists first attempted to replicate the natural conditions under which diamonds form. They used high-pressure high-temperature (HPHT) methods to synthesize diamonds and succeeded in producing small, granular diamonds.
In the 1970s, the introduction of chemical vapor deposition (CVD) marked a significant advancement. This technique enabled the growth of larger single-crystal diamonds at normal atmospheric pressure, establishing a strong foundation for the evolution of laboratory diamonds.
As production processes and technologies improved over the years, so did the quality, yield, and cost-effectiveness of laboratory diamonds. By the early 21st century, they had begun to emerge in the consumer market.
Recently, the market for laboratory diamonds has experienced rapid growth. With increasing consumer demand and decreasing production costs, laboratory diamonds are becoming increasingly prominent in the diamond industry and gaining popularity among consumers.
Why are lab-grown diamonds so popularAverage cost of laboratory-grown diamonds?
Compared to natural diamonds, laboratory-grown diamonds are cheaper to produce and more affordable for consumers. This accessibility allows a wider range of people to purchase diamond jewelry.
Thanks to advanced production techniques, lab-grown diamonds are virtually indistinguishable from natural diamonds in terms of chemical composition and physical properties. Consumers can obtain diamonds of comparable quality to natural ones. Additionally, the production process for lab-grown diamonds is more environmentally friendly and sustainable than the extraction of natural diamonds.
Laboratories can produce these diamonds on a large scale and in an eco-conscious manner, without being limited by natural resources. Furthermore, lab-grown diamonds can be customized into various sizes and shapes to meet individual preferences.
Many consumers are increasingly concerned about the social responsibilities associated with diamond jewelry, particularly in avoiding the illegal trade of "blood diamonds." Laboratory-grown diamonds align better with these ethical considerations.
In the field of laboratory-grown diamond certification, the IGI organization has assumed a leading position. This organization has been grading such diamonds for a long time and has accumulated a wealth of experience and market resources.
The average cost of laboratory-grown diamonds?
While there are specific investments and costs associated with cultivating laboratory diamonds, these are significantly lower than the expenses required for mining natural stones. Generally, lab-grown diamonds that meet the same 4C standards (weight, cut, color, and clarity) as natural diamonds are priced at about one-fourth to one-third the cost of natural diamonds.
As the world's largest laboratory diamond production base, we are able to offer more affordable prices on customized diamond jewelry.
Lab Diamond FAQs
Can I tell the difference between a lab diamond and a natural diamond?
It's difficult to differentiate between a natural diamond and a lab-grown diamond without proper laboratory testing equipment. When placed side by side, they appear identical to the naked eye, even to a jeweler. Physically, they are made of the same materials. However, when examined with specialized testing equipment by a jeweler or during certification, the differences become apparent.
Are lab diamonds real diamonds?
Yes, a lab-grown diamond is a genuine diamond that possesses the same chemical, physical, and optical characteristics as a natural diamond. It can be identified as a diamond by both a diamond detector and a gemologist. The only difference is that it was created in a laboratory rather than occurring naturally on Earth.
Are lab diamonds environmentally friendly? Are they ethical?
Laboratory diamonds are indeed ethical choices. While their production is energy-intensive, they offer a responsible environmental alternative because they don’t require mining. This contrasts with natural diamonds, which have a troubling history associated with blood diamonds. Although there have been international efforts to eliminate these diamonds from the supply chain, some activists believe that progress has not been sufficient. Conversely, others argue that mining can provide livelihoods and generate export revenues for these countries. Regardless, we manufacture lab diamonds in accordance with a conflict-free policy.
Are lab diamonds worth buying?
Absolutely! While lab diamonds may not retain their value on the secondary market, that doesn't diminish their appeal. In the U.S., it's projected that lab diamond engagement rings will account for half of all engagement rings by 2024. Instead of investing several months' worth of salary in a traditional diamond, you can now purchase a larger, higher-quality lab diamond for a lower price. Best of all, no one will be able to tell the difference!
How do I value lab diamonds?
Like natural diamonds, we can evaluate them using the 4Cs: Cut， Color， Clarity, and Carat. Refer to the article "What are the 4Cs of diamonds?" for more information.
How does this differ from diamond simulants and synthetic diamonds?
‘Synthetic diamond’ typically refers to a lab-grown diamond. Lab diamonds are indeed ‘real diamonds’ because they are chemically identical to natural diamonds. The term ‘synthetic’ is used less frequently since it doesn’t sound as appealing. In contrast, a ‘simulant’ refers to materials like moissanite or cubic zirconia. These are not chemical diamonds but are designed to resemble real diamonds. However, professionals can easily identify them as imitations.