What are Lab-Grown Diamonds? Everything you need to know!

The diamond market has seen a dynamic shift with the advent of the latest technological marvel taking the centre stage: Lab-Grown Diamonds. They have swiftly captured the spotlight for their exceptional accessibility, affordability and sustainability.

Owning a dazzling diamond is no longer just a dream, lab-grown diamonds bring luxury within reach. What started as a niche trend in the U.S. has now captivated jewellery lovers worldwide. 

And if you have been wondering what all the fuss is about, read on! We shall try to answer the most common questions concerning lab-grown diamonds.

Table of content: 

 

1. What exactly are lab-grown diamonds? Are lab-grown diamonds even real?

 

Absolutely, lab-grown diamonds are 100% real! They are as real as they come and share the same physical, chemical and optical properties as natural diamonds. 

The only difference? While natural diamonds take billions of years to form under earth, science does it in weeks, creating the same sparkling diamonds which are affordable, sustainable and conflict free!

   

 

Identical Physical, Chemical and Optical Properties

Think of lab-grown diamonds as test tube babies, regardless of their origins the outcome is remarkable and true in every sense. In fact, in 2018 The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has expanded its definition of “diamond” to include those grown in a laboratory.

2. How are lab-grown diamonds created? 

 

Lab-grown diamonds are primarily created using two methods: Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) & High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT). Let’s take a closer look at how these two processes work:

a. High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT):

A small diamond seed is exposed to extreme pressure (over 5 GPa) and temperatures above 2,000°F, mimicking the way natural diamonds are formed deep within the earth. HPHT diamonds often exhibit a slight yellow tinge as they are exposed to nitrogen and also tend to have darker inclusions.

b. Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD):

 A diamond seed is placed in a vacuum chamber filled with a carbon rich gas (typically-methane) and heated to nearly 1500°F. It produces Type IIA diamonds, which are extremely rare for naturally occurring diamonds. These are chemically pure and lack nitrogen and boron impurities that can occur in HPHT diamonds.

At Solitique we only work with CVD diamonds. Rest assured that you shall receive the finest quality diamonds when buying from us.

3. Do lab-grown diamonds look identical to natural diamonds? Can anyone tell the difference?

Lab diamonds possess equal fire, brilliance and lustre as natural ones, if not more.

No one, not even your family jeweler or a nosy relative can tell the difference between a natural and a lab-grown diamond with a naked eye. This can only be done by lab technicians using highly sophisticated and specialized equipment.

4. Are lab diamonds certified? 

 

Lab-grown diamonds are evaluated using the same 4Cs: Cut, Color, Clarity, Carat Weight - as natural diamonds on exactly the same grading scales. They are certified by the same renowned certification bodies which grade natural diamonds, such as IGI, GIA & SGL.

5. What is the price difference between natural and lab diamonds?

 

On average, lab diamonds are 1/10th the price of natural diamonds. While a 1-carat natural solitaire can cost up to ~ Rs. 5,00,000,  a lab-grown diamond with the same cut, clarity, colour and certification will cost ~ Rs. 50,000.

Bigger the diamond, more are the savings! Read more about our investment thesis, here. 

6. Are People Really Buying Lab-Grown Diamonds? Here's What the Numbers Say

 

Lab-grown diamonds have been shaking up the jewellery industry since their market debut in 2018. Lab-grown diamonds now make up around 20% of the total diamond market, up from nearly zero percent in 2015. The increase in demand for lab-grown diamonds has led to a decline in prices for natural diamonds to the tune of 30-40%.

Key reasons why people are increasingly investing in this groundbreaking development and why you should too:

a. Affordable Luxury:

Diamonds have traditionally been a symbol of royalty and luxury. But to most of us, they have also been a not so kind reminder of the fact that investing in a diamond would be burning a hole in our pocket. Lab-grown diamonds have changed the equation. Whether you’re buying an engagement ring, wedding band or everyday jewellery, you get a bigger and better diamond for less.

b. Sustainability: 

According to Environmental Impact Assessment 2014, lab-grown diamonds utilize 7 times less water than mined diamonds. Moreover, lab diamonds produce just 0.028 grams of carbon emission/ carat while natural diamonds produce 37,000 grams of carbon emissions/ carat- that’s over a million times more pollution. So, you are not only making a financially plausible decision but also making the planet a better, healthier place to live in for the future generations.

c. Ethical: 

Traditionally, the process of diamond sourcing has been riddled with countless wars, violence, child labour and abuse of human rights. Lab-grown diamonds are an ethical alternative- guilt free luxury!

Conclusion

Lab-grown diamonds have emerged to be a gamechanger in the realm of diamonds: 

They have become an obvious choice for consumers who want to adore themselves with stunning pieces of jewelry without spending a major chunk of their life’s savings in a diamond. 

Their growing popularity points to a change in the diamond business toward one that is more ethical and sustainable. Choosing lab diamonds allows customers to support community well-being and environmental protection while still getting a stunning stone at a fair price. 

And if you are still wondering about where to find the best collection of lab-grown diamonds then look no further - explore Solitique’s exquisite collections at our website.