Lab grown diamonds are real diamonds. The only difference between natural and lab grown diamonds is that one is found in the earth, and one is created in a lab - they share the same chemical and physical properties.
However, taking into consideration the affordability, accessibility, and sustainability credentials, as well as sharing the same strength and beauty as natural diamonds – we understand the skepticism that surrounds lab grown diamonds.
Exactly what it sounds like – a lab grown diamond is produced in a controlled setting that mimics the natural formation of a diamond in a lab. Sharing the same chemical and physical properties as natural diamonds, lab grown diamonds possess the same structure, level of hardness, and sparkle that give diamonds appeal.
The key difference between a lab and natural diamond is how they are grown. Lab grown diamonds only take a couple of months to produce, as opposed to their natural counterparts which can take billions of years to grow.
Comparing the two visually, a lab grown diamond has no physical difference to the naked eye. Lab grown diamonds have the same foundational makeup of a natural diamond, and it is impossible to tell them apart without laboratory equipment.
Yes, diamonds grown in the lab are considered as real as naturally grown diamonds. Lab grown diamonds have the same physical and chemical properties as diamonds mined from the Earth, which are therefore graded by their shape, size, colour, and clarity – just like a natural diamond.
Both lab grown and natural diamonds are crystallised carbon that is created under immense pressure and high temperature. In fact, well-known institutes like the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) certify diamonds whether they’re grown in the lab or mined from the Earth – certifying lab grown diamonds as “real” diamonds.
The highly advanced technology used to produce a lab diamond recreates the level of heat and pressure needed for diamonds naturally created in the Earth. There are two different methods which emulate these growth conditions in the lab: Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD) and High Pressure, High Temperature (HPHT).
From affordability to sustainability, lab grown diamonds are becoming more popular – especially across younger buyers.
To reiterate (we can never say it enough!), lab grown diamonds are real diamonds – possessing the same aesthetic and durable appeal as natural diamonds, however, lab grown diamonds cost considerably less. In fact, a lab grown diamond with the same attributes of a natural diamond can cost 30 to 40% less, as the process itself is less costly in both time and money.
Extracting natural diamonds involves mining from Marine, open-put, and underground mines which releases greenhouse gases and can damage local ecosystems. On the other hand, diamonds grown in the lab have more control over their carbon footprint. Cutting out the need for mining altogether, companies can use renewable energy sources to create lab grown diamonds.
With younger generations growing more concerned around sustainability and being generally more aware of the economy – lab grown diamonds respond to these considerations.
There is no right or wrong choice between a natural or lab grown diamond – it all depends on what you prefer.
Lab-grown diamonds are appealing for those who are intrigued by the innovative technology and sustainability credentials, as well as appreciating the precision that lab grown diamonds offer at an affordable price. What natural diamonds offer that lab grown diamonds can’t is history and emotional value. Due to the rarity of natural diamonds, natural diamonds have a one-of-a-kind edge that is priceless for many people.
Both lab grown and natural diamonds hold up in beauty and strength, however, each has its own attributes that goes beyond quality and looks. If you’re in the market for diamond jewellery, GS Diamonds are Australia’s leading provider of diamonds, at wholesale prices.