WHAT DO YOU KNOW ABOUT
DIAMOND
Lab Grown Diamond
At a particular temperature, the gas molecules are broken down, and layers of crystallized carbon begin to form around the seed, resulting in a larger diamond. After being developed, some CVD-created lab diamonds may be subjected to pressure and heat treatment.
The naked eye cannot distinguish between natural diamonds, lab diamonds generated using the HPHT method, and lab diamonds grown using the CVD method; only scientists can do so by studying distinguishing markers caused by growth circumstances.
Benefits of Lab Grown Diamonds
Lab-grown diamonds are a great alternative to mined diamonds. They are not only physically identical, but they are also responsibly sourced and less expensive. Some of the main benefits of a lab-created diamond include:
Rare colors can be artificially produced, increasing accessibility to unique items.
Trackable origin sources enable us to source diamonds from trustworthy suppliers that do not engage in poor treatment of people or communities.
The HPHT and CVD lab-grown diamond techniques make it easier to meet demand without losing quality or engaging in damaging activities.
How are Lab Grow Diamonds Made?
Lab grown diamonds are made from small carbon seeds from pre-existing diamonds. To simulate natural diamond production, scientists employ modern technologies such as intense pressure and heat or a unique deposition process known as chemical vapor deposition (CVD). A rough diamond forms over a period of six to 10 weeks. Then it's cut, polished, and set in lab diamond jewelry like earrings, necklaces, or bracelets.
There are two main methods for creating lab diamonds:
1. High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT): This process replicates the circumstances under which natural diamonds originate within the earth. To create the lab diamond, a massive machine is fed a specific amount of carbon material, which is then crushed at pressures of more than 870,000 pounds per square inch at severe temperatures ranging from 1300 to 1600 degrees Celsius.
2. Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD): CVD occurs when a seed diamond is placed in a tiny vacuum chamber containing heated hydrogen and carbon-bearing gases. At a particular temperature, the gas molecules are broken down, and layers of crystallized carbon begin to form around the seed, resulting in a larger diamond. After being developed, some CVD-created lab diamonds may be subjected to pressure and heat treatment.
For a behind-the-scenes look at how lab-generated diamonds are made, follow the steps involved in the CVD process.
Start with methane gas (CH4), and form a plasma with hydrogen (H).
Add a disc made up of15-30 diamond seeds(small pieces of natural diamond) and place into the microwave reactor.
For an exceptional gemstone, adjust the temperature in the chamber to between 900 and 1200°C.
The activated carbon-hydrogen species attaches itself to the seed atom. This process repeats itself endlessly for21-28 daysto replicate the crystal structure of the diamond seed crystal in three dimensions.
iPad alerts notify technicians that the grown diamonds are ready for removal. The15-30rectangular shaped gemsare removed from the reactor and sent to a gemologist for cutting.
A gemologist cuts the stone to perfection and the diamond is added to a ring setting.
Lab-grown Diamonds VS Natural Diamonds
Lab-grown diamonds and natural diamonds are both composed of carbon atoms arranged in a crystalline structure, but they differ in their origin and certain characteristics.
Lab Grown Diamond
Also known as synthetic or man-made diamonds, these diamonds are created in a controlled laboratory environment. They are produced using either High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) or Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) methods.
Natural Diamond
Formed deep within the Earth's mantle under extreme pressure and high temperatures over millions or even billions of years, natural diamonds are brought to the surface through volcanic eruptions or other geological processes.
Created by replicating the conditions under which natural diamonds are formed, but the process is accelerated and takes a shorter time.
Mined from the Earth's crust.
Often less expensive than natural diamonds due to the controlled production process and shorter creation time.
Typically more expensive, as their formation is a natural and time-consuming process.
Easier to produce in larger sizes and quantities.
Larger, high-quality diamonds are rarer and, therefore, more valuable.
Generally considered to have a lower environmental impact, especially if produced using sustainable practices.
Mining natural diamonds can have significant environmental consequences, including habitat disruption and carbon emissions.
Learn More About Lab Grown Diamond
Are lab-grown diamonds real diamonds?
Yes, lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds. They have the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as natural diamonds because they are composed of carbon atoms arranged in a crystal lattice structure.
Do lab-grown diamonds come with certifications?
Yes, reputable lab-grown diamonds are often accompanied by certifications from gemological laboratories, such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), the International Gemological Institute (IGI), or others. These certifications provide information about the diamond's cut, color, clarity, and carat weight.
Are lab-grown diamonds cheaper than natural diamonds?
Generally, lab-grown diamonds are less expensive than natural diamonds. The controlled production environment and shorter creation time contribute to their lower cost. However, prices can vary based on factors such as size, quality, and market demand.
Can lab-grown diamonds be used for engagement rings and other jewelry?
Absolutely. Lab-grown diamonds are suitable for various types of jewelry, including engagement rings. They possess the same durability and brilliance as natural diamonds, making them a popular choice for those seeking ethical and budget-friendly options.
Are lab-grown diamonds considered ethical?
Lab-grown diamonds are often considered a more ethical choice compared to natural diamonds. The production process has a lower environmental impact, and these diamonds are not associated with the ethical concerns related to traditional diamond mining, such as conflict diamonds.