Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Real Diamonds?
When purchasing a diamond, you have two main options as far as the origin of your stone: natural or lab-grown. Lab-grown diamonds are often more affordable than natural stones, and the outward appearance is virtually identical. But are lab-grown stones truly “real”?
Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Real Diamonds?
Yes! Lab-grown diamonds are undoubtedly real diamonds. Diamonds grown in a lab are just as real as those we mine from the earth.
Lab-grown diamonds are made with the same ratio and combination of chemicals that comprise natural diamonds. Both types of diamonds are formed with carbon atoms bonded tightly together.
Since both types of stones have the same chemical composition, they look identical to the naked eye. Both diamonds will react to light the same way, offering the iconic shine and glimmer that you expect from a piece of diamond jewelry.
Normally, the only way to distinguish between a lab-grown and natural stone is through advanced testing in a laboratory.
How are Lab-Grown Diamonds Made?
There are two main methods for growing diamonds in a lab: the High Temperature, High Pressure (HTHP) method and the Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) method.
HTHP Method
During the HTHP method, lab-grown diamonds are subjected to nearly the same temperature and pressure conditions that natural diamonds experience while they form inside the earth. The HTHP method is also often used to improve the color of lower-quality diamonds, whether they’re lab-grown or natural.
CVD Method
The CVD method can be performed with lower temperatures and pressures than the HTHP method. Gas containing carbon is pumped into a special vacuum chamber and is deposited onto a diamond seed. The diamond will continue to grow until it reaches the desired size.
Differences Between Lab-Grown and Natural Diamonds
As we mentioned, the chemical composition and visual qualities of lab-grown and natural diamonds are identical. So what are the differences between these two types of stones?
The price is the most significant difference that sets lab-grown and natural diamonds apart. Since natural diamonds are more complicated to procure than lab-grown varieties, they tend to be more expensive for the customer.
If you’re choosing a diamond for a piece of jewelry and simply want a beautiful stone to look at, a lab-grown variety will offer visual appeal while saving you hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
However, if your main goal is to eventually resell your diamond, a naturally mined diamond will allow you to gain a higher profit in the future. Since natural diamonds are rarer than lab-grown stones, they will retain their value and will be worth more in the long run.
Selecting Your Diamond
Still unsure whether you want a lab-grown or natural diamond for your next piece of jewelry? iTouch Diamonds can help. We carry a wide range of both lab-grown and natural diamonds in a variety of colors, sizes, and shapes.
Our team can help you decide on your unique piece of jewelry and ensure that your purchase exceeds your high standards. We’re here to help you find your perfect piece of jewelry, no matter the occasion. Contact us today to learn more!