With pressing concerns related to the blood diamond trade and rising environmental damage caused by mining, lab-grown diamonds have emerged as a revolutionary breakthrough in the global jewellery industry.
However, with so much information about lab-grown diamonds on the internet, making an informed decision can feel overwhelming. We understand, and that's why we've created this lab-grown diamond guide to address all your questions about this innovative and sustainable option.
Our team at Stefee Jewels has compiled precise and helpful information to make your transition from natural to lab-created diamonds stress-free and convenient. Explore our guide to know what lab-grown diamonds are and why they are a perfect choice for your next piece of jewellery.
What are Lab-Grown Diamonds?
A lab-grown diamond is a gemstone created in a controlled environment (laboratory) by expert professionals. It is a man-made diamond that mirrors the natural earth-grown diamond. A lab-grown diamond is manufactured by replicating the natural condition and formation process of an earth-grown diamond in a laboratory setting.
What are Lab-Grown Diamonds Called?
Due to their growing popularity, lab-created diamonds are referred to by various names across the globe. Some of the common names of lab diamonds are:
- Synthetic Diamonds
- Artificial Diamonds
- Cultured Diamonds
- Cultivated Diamonds
- Man-Made Diamonds
- Manufactured or Lab-Created Diamonds
Benefits of Purchasing Lab-Created Diamonds
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Ethical: Lab-grown diamonds are conflict-free, ensuring they do not fund armed conflict or human rights abuses. Lab diamonds are manufactured in transparent and fair human conditions.
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Sustainable: Creating lab-grown diamonds has a lower environmental impact than mining, reducing land disruption, water usage, and pollution.
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Cost-Effective: Lab-grown diamond prices are affordable, as they are 30-40% less expensive than natural diamonds of similar quality and size.
- Resale Value: Lab-made diamonds have a growing resale value. So, once you buy them, you can resell them at a reasonable rate after long-term usage.
Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Real Diamonds?
Yes, lab-made diamonds are 100% real. They are physically, chemically and optically identical to their natural counterparts. Additionally, lab-grown diamonds have the same brilliance, hardness, and sparkle as natural diamonds.
Some lab diamonds are meticulously crafted and perfected to be free from blemishes and inclusions. Lab-grown diamonds are also certified by gemological institutes and laboratories like the GIA (Gemological Institute of America) and the IGI (International Gemological Institute).
How are Lab-Grown Diamonds Produced?Lab diamonds are made using two main methods:
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HTHP: The HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature) process involves mimicking natural diamond formation by applying high pressure (approximately 5-6 GPa) and high temperature (about 1,300-1,600°C) to a carbon atom. The carbon is gradually converted into a diamond crystal during the formation process.
- CVD: CVD (Chemical Vapour Deposition) creates diamonds by placing a diamond seed (usually produced through the HTHP process) in a chamber filled with carbon-rich gas, such as methane. The heated gas breaks down the carbon atoms, which are then deposited onto the diamond seed, layer by layer, forming a diamond.
Are Lab Diamonds at Stefee Jewels Ethically Sourced?
At Stefee Jewels, all our lab diamonds are 100% ethically sourced by incorporating HTHP and CVD procedures at our state-of-the-art manufacturing facility. Our lab-grown diamonds are GIA-certified.
What are the Differences between Natural and Lab Diamonds?
The first thing an individual notices before buying lab-created diamonds is the difference between natural and artificial diamonds. Visually and physically, a lab-grown diamond bears no difference from a natural diamond.
For this reason, lab Grown diamonds India are registered as real diamonds when tested. Even the most experienced gemologists can only find a difference with specialised equipment available in labs. One can only know whether it is a natural or lab-grown diamond through a grading report.
Factors Influencing Prices of Lab-Grown Diamonds
The 4 C's that influence lab-grown diamond prices are:
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Carat: Carat weight affects a diamond's price. Larger carat diamonds are rarer and more expensive.
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Cut: The cut of a lab diamond is the shape of the crystal. If cut with precision, it indicates a better quality and impacts the brilliance and value of the stone.
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Clarity: Clarity measures inclusions and blemishes; higher clarity diamonds, with fewer flaws, are more valuable.
- Colour: Lab-grown diamonds are available in transparent and shades of yellow, pink, blue and red. Transparent or colourless diamonds are more in demand and expensive.
Application of Lab-Grown Diamonds
Lab-grown diamonds are widely used in jewellery such as rings, earrings, pendants, necklaces, bracelets and bangles. At Stefee Jewels, we have lab-grown diamond jewellery for men and women and also provide loose lab-grown diamonds.
Need More Help?
We know it's your first time buying lab-grown diamond jewellery. Our team at Stefee Jewels want to make the process easier and simpler for you. Thus, we offer a facility to book a virtual appointment with us. You can connect and speak with our experts and buy lab diamonds once you are convinced.