Lab Grown Diamonds, as the name suggests, are diamonds grown in a lab.
Although they have a different start in life, lab grown and natural diamonds share a lot of similarities, including their appearance, durability and the fact that they are both high in quality.
There are also a couple of factors that set them apart, including their origin and cost. Lab grown diamonds offer advantages in terms of value for money, however, many people are still drawn to the historical significance and rarity of a natural diamond.
So, whether you’re shopping for THE diamond ring, a birthday present or looking to treat yourself with some jewellery, know that there are a couple of factors to think about when picking diamond jewellery.
In this blog, we’ll shed some light on lab grown diamonds and go into more detail about comparing your diamond options.
What are Lab Grown Diamonds
Although lab grown diamonds are produced in a laboratory setting, they have the same chemical composition and crystal structure as natural diamonds, meaning they are almost indistinguishable from natural diamonds.
The process of creating lab-grown diamonds typically involves two main methods: High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD).
High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT)
This method simulates the conditions that cause diamonds to grow naturally. However, instead of taking place deep within the Earth’s mantle, the process occurs in a laboratory setting and involves subjecting carbon-based materials to extreme pressure and temperature conditions (usually exceeding 1,500 degrees Celsius).
This technique encourages the carbon atoms to crystallise and form diamond structures in a similar way to how natural diamonds form.
Once the diamond has grown to the desired size, the chamber is slowly cooled down over a period of time and the diamond is extracted.
Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD):
Unlike the previous method, this process is performed in a more accessible and controlled environment.
A diamond seed is placed in a chamber filled with carbon-rich gases. The gases are then ionised, causing the carbon atoms to deposit on the seed and gradually build up a diamond crystal. The sophisticated growth process allows for precise control, which means the laboratory is able to achieve the desired size and quality for each diamond.
The technical advancements of both these methods have made it possible to create consistent high-quality and valuable diamonds that are a popular choice for high-end jewellers like us.
What’s the difference between Lab Grown and natural diamonds
Although lab grown and natural diamonds are almost indistinguishable to the naked eye, the pair do offer a few differences that may be the deciding factor in your purchase, including:
Quality
Although one is a product of technology and the other is 100% natural, the quality of the diamond is very much like-for-like. In fact, lab grown diamonds are chemically identical to natural diamonds.
Many institutions that are responsible for grading diamonds follow the same methods and standards for evaluating both natural and lab grown diamonds, meaning that when we talk about the 4cs of diamond rings (cut, clarity, colour and carat), know that every diamond’s individual characteristics are measured using the same quality assessment.
Price
This is where the two differ slightly, with lab grown diamonds being a more affordable option. Due to the extensive workforce and controlled supply chain that comes with mining diamonds, there is usually a premium price tag attached to natural diamonds. After all, you’re paying for the one-of-a-kind rarity of the stone.
On the other hand, The efficiencies in technology mean that lab grown diamonds are more attainable, which is why a lab grown diamond that has a similar grade to a natural diamond would usually come in at a lower price.
How it’s made
This may be the deciding factor for some people.
If you’re not bothered by the origin of your diamond and are wholly looking for a beautiful, high-quality, durable diamond that is more forgiving on your bank balance, then a lab grown diamond would be a good option.
However, if you prefer knowing that your diamond is a natural product that’s been forming beneath the earth for billions of years then a lab diamond may not be for you.
Durability
Lab grown diamonds are comprised of carbon, which is the same material that natural diamonds are made of. Diamonds remain the hardest material in the world, which means that whichever option you choose, know that you are purchasing a very durable and long-lasting piece of jewellery.
We understand that the decision to choose a lab grown diamond or a natural diamond is a personal choice.
At Max Diamonds, we believe everyone’s personal preferences are valued.
Speak to one of our qualified designers, gemmologists, and diamond graders, and together we can create the perfect piece of natural or lab grown diamond jewellery for you or for that someone special.
Contact us today to make a private appointment in our studio located in the heart of Sydney’s CBD.