Natural vs Lab created diamonds

Know the difference between Natural vs Lab created diamonds

Purchasing a diamond is a significant decision that often requires days of research before making the final choice. Diamonds are not just beautiful gemstones; they hold both emotional and financial value, representing an investment in your future. Whether you’re buying a diamond ring, earrings, or any other piece of jewelry, it’s important to explore your options thoroughly.

When shopping for a diamond, customers should focus not only on the design but also on understanding the origin of the diamond. Whether you choose a lab-grown diamond or a mined diamond, knowing the key differences between the two is crucial. Before making such a meaningful investment, take the time to consider what’s best for you and your values. This knowledge will help ensure that your purchase is informed and aligned with your preferences.

What Are Lab-Grown Diamonds?

Lab-grown diamonds, as the name implies, are diamonds created in a laboratory rather than being mined from the Earth’s crust. The process of creating lab-grown diamonds involves techniques like Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) or High-Pressure High Temperature (HPHT). These diamonds have the same physical and chemical properties as natural diamonds, making them just as valuable as their mined counterparts.

Origin

The key distinction between natural diamonds and lab-created diamonds lies in their origin. A common misconception is that mined diamonds come from coal, which is not accurate. Diamonds form naturally in various ways, including the following methods:

Diamonds from Earth’s Crust : Mined diamonds originate deep within the Earth’s crust, where volcanic eruptions push them to the surface. Under extreme pressure and temperature, carbon atoms bond with gases in the mantle, forming organic diamonds.

Diamonds from Subduction Zones : Tectonic movements and seawater contribute to the formation of subduction diamonds. Carbon from rocks like marble or limestone reacts with seawater during tectonic activity, creating these diamonds.

Diamonds from Asteroid Impact : Around 3% of natural diamonds form due to asteroid impacts. The high pressure and temperature from these impacts lead to the creation of diamonds.

Diamonds from Space : Minute diamond particles, known as Nano diamonds, have been found in space, further contributing to the natural formation of diamonds.

Lab-Created Diamonds:

Lab-grown diamonds are produced through two primary methods:

Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) : In this process, a diamond seed is placed in a chamber where carbon-rich gases are introduced. The gases break down into carbon atoms that bond with the seed, forming CVD diamonds.

High-Pressure High Temperature (HPHT): This method mimics the natural diamond formation process in the Earth’s mantle, where carbon is subjected to high pressure and temperature to create HPHT diamonds.

Simulant Diamonds :

Simulant diamonds, though lab-created, are different from natural diamonds. They are not made purely of carbon compounds like natural diamonds or lab-grown diamonds. For instance, moissanite, made from silicon carbide, is a popular diamond simulant due to its brilliance, durability, and lower cost. While cubic zirconia also shines brightly, it tends to lose its clarity over time, becoming cloudy or discolored due to its porous structure.

At Dhaduk Diamonds, we focus on offering fine grown diamonds, combining the quality and authenticity of lab-created diamonds with the durability and brilliance that rival natural diamonds.

Time Taken

The development of a natural diamond can take anywhere between one to four billion years, making them much older than dinosaurs. As a result, the natural diamonds we have today are a finite resource, with new diamonds taking billions of years to form. On the other hand, lab-grown diamonds are developed in controlled environments by experts, and the process takes only about four days to a week. This ability to produce high-quality diamonds in such a short time allows for an unlimited supply of these fine-grown diamonds, making them a sustainable option.

Extraction process:

The extraction process for natural diamonds involves mining, which requires a significant labor force. This mining process is not only labor-intensive but also expensive and often dangerous due to the depths at which diamonds are found.

In contrast, lab-grown diamonds are created in controlled laboratory environments, under the careful supervision of experts. This process is much safer and more cost-effective, as there is no need for dangerous mining operations to extract diamonds from the Earth.

Quality control:

Natural mined diamonds grow in environments that experts cannot control or observe, making it difficult to guarantee their quality. Many natural diamonds are rejected because they do not meet the desired standards or contain cracks and impurities. In contrast, lab-grown diamonds, also known as cultivated diamonds, are developed in controlled environments where experts can carefully monitor and adjust the conditions. This ensures a higher likelihood of consistent quality.

While diamonds grown using the High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) method may still contain some cracks, these diamonds are either not sold or sold at a lower price. At Fine-Grown Diamonds, we exclusively use the Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) method, which guarantees premium quality diamonds.

Both natural and lab-grown diamonds score a 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making them equally durable. If you’re looking for a high-quality lab-made diamond, we can provide you with the diamond of your dreams, crafted with expert care and attention.

Uniqueness:

The natural formation of diamonds over billions of years without any external intervention makes them the hardest substance on Earth. Each natural diamond is unique due to the distinct inclusions and characteristics that arise during its formation, meaning no two natural diamonds are exactly alike. This natural uniqueness is a significant part of their appeal.In contrast, lab-grown diamonds, while similar in appearance and chemical composition, are not miracles of nature but rather the result of human ingenuity. While they can be carefully crafted to resemble natural diamonds, they do not exhibit the same randomness or unique features that nature imparts. Nonetheless, lab-grown diamonds are still a remarkable achievement of human technology, offering a sustainable and consistent alternative to their natural counterparts.

Real

A common question that often arises is whether lab diamonds are real. To clarify, lab-grown diamonds are indeed 100% real. They are just as authentic as natural diamonds, as both share the same chemical composition and physical properties. The only difference between the two lies in their origin—natural diamonds are formed over billions of years in the Earth’s crust, while lab diamonds are created in controlled environments by experts. Despite this difference, both types of diamonds are genuine, high-quality gemstones.

Color

One of the key differences between lab-grown and natural diamonds lies in their color. Colorless natural diamonds are rare and expensive, with most natural diamonds having a slight yellowish tint. Most natural diamonds you encounter will fall within the J or E color grade, which are almost colorless but have faint yellow hues due to impurities. The D color grade is the highest, signifying a completely colorless diamond with minimal to no impurities, but these diamonds are often out of reach for many due to their high cost.

In contrast, lab-grown diamonds offer a wider range of color options, including colorless diamonds with a D grade available at more affordable prices. Additionally, lab-grown colored diamonds are also available in a variety of shades, such as blue and pink, without the hefty price tag typically associated with natural colored diamonds. Since lab diamonds are created in controlled environments, experts can produce both colorless and colored diamonds in large quantities, ensuring quality without compromising affordability.

Customizable

When it comes to customizing diamonds, natural diamonds offer very limited options. Due to their natural formation and rarity, it is difficult to find a shop that can tailor a natural diamond to your exact specifications. As a result, buyers often have to compromise on aspects like the cut or style.On the other hand, lab-grown diamonds, also known as cultured diamonds, offer far more flexibility. Most retailers that sell lab diamonds allow customers to easily personalize their gemstones. You can select your preferred design, cut, color, and other features, allowing for a fully customized piece that matches your exact vision. This level of personalization makes lab-grown diamonds a popular choice for those looking for a unique, tailor-made diamond.

Future prospects and investments:

Both lab-grown and natural diamonds can be good investments, but their economic viability differs significantly. When it comes to natural diamonds, selling them in the future often results in a loss, as you will typically receive only about half of their original value. This means that purchasing a natural diamond may not be the most economical option if you’re thinking of reselling it down the line. In contrast, lab-grown diamonds are more affordable to purchase, and the chances of incurring a significant loss when reselling them are much lower. Since they cost less than natural diamonds for the same cut, color, and clarity, lab-grown diamonds present a more economical option. You can even purchase a high-quality lab-grown diamond engagement ring and still have funds available for other things, such as planning a holiday!

Marketing of diamonds:

You may have heard that diamonds are rare and that their supply is limited, but this is not entirely accurate. While rough natural diamonds are limited in supply, they are not as rare as marketing often suggests. The perception of rarity is largely driven by distributors who control the supply of natural diamonds to artificially increase demand. By promoting the idea that diamonds are limited edition, they create a sense of urgency, leading customers to pay inflated prices for items like engagement rings or diamond studs.

In contrast, lab-grown diamonds are not subject to these marketing tactics. There is no artificial limitation on their supply, so customers are paying for the actual value of the diamond itself, rather than the premium added by marketing strategies. This makes lab-grown diamonds a more transparent and cost-effective option for those looking for a quality gemstone without the added hype.

Environmental impact:

Soil pollution : Diamond mining often leads to deforestation, which contributes to soil erosion and degradation. In contrast, lab-grown diamonds are produced in controlled laboratory environments, eliminating the risk of soil pollution.

Air pollution : Natural diamond mining involves large machinery and extensive processes that require significant amounts of energy, contributing to air pollution. While lab diamonds also require high temperatures and pressure for their creation, the overall air pollution from lab-grown diamonds is considerably less.

Water pollution : Mining natural diamonds consumes a large amount of water—about 127 gallons per carat of diamond mined. In comparison, lab-grown diamonds require only about 18 gallons of water per carat, making them a more water-efficient option.

Noise pollution : The mining process for natural diamonds often results in significant noise pollution, which affects nearby communities. Lab-grown diamonds, however, do not contribute to noise pollution, as they are produced in a controlled, quiet environment.

Overall, lab-grown diamonds have a much smaller environmental footprint compared to natural diamonds, making them a more eco-friendly choice.

Ethics and Conflicts:

The ethical concerns surrounding natural diamond mining are significant. Diamond mining operations often rely on laborers who face dangerous working conditions, risking their health and lives to extract the gemstones. Unfortunately, the wages these workers receive are often insufficient to support their families. Additionally, entire villages near mining sites may be forced to evacuate to make way for mining operations, disrupting communities.In some cases, the diamond industry has been linked to the exploitation of child labor, a serious violation of human rights. These practices raise ethical concerns, as they contribute to cruel and inhumane conditions for workers.

Lab-grown diamonds, on the other hand, present a more ethical alternative. Since they are created in laboratories under controlled conditions, there is no need for dangerous mining operations or exploitative labor practices. The production of lab diamonds involves no child labor, and the workers involved in their creation work in safe environments, making lab-grown diamonds a more ethically sound choice.

Price

The price of natural diamonds is significantly influenced by marketing strategies and the involvement of heavy machinery in the mining process, making them relatively expensive. If you’re looking for a more affordable option, purchasing a natural diamond may require compromises on aspects like cut, clarity, carat weight, or color. In contrast, while lab-grown diamonds also involve machinery, they require minimal labor and no mining, which makes them more affordable. This allows you to purchase a lab-grown diamond without compromising on quality, enabling you to get a premium gemstone without breaking the bank.

While natural diamonds may hold sentimental value due to their rarity and uniqueness, they can come at a hefty price. Lab-grown diamonds, on the other hand, offer a more accessible, ethical, and sustainable option without the emotional cost.

Ultimately, the choice between natural and lab-grown diamonds depends on your preferences, values, and budget. If you lean towards lab diamonds, which are environmentally friendly, conflict-free, and cruelty-free, consider exploring Fine-Grown Diamonds for customizable, premium-quality diamonds. Our GIA graduate gemologists are here to provide expert advice to help you make the best choice for your needs.

Type	Shape	Cut	Color	Clarity	Carat	Price
Lab diamonds	Round	Ideal cut	F	VVS1	1.00ct	$ 2016.00
Natural diamonds	Round	Ideal cut	F	VVS1	1.00ct	$7,635.60

Are Lab Diamonds Real?

A common question many customers have is whether lab-grown diamonds are real. To clear up any misconceptions, lab diamonds are 100% real. They are just as authentic as natural diamonds, with the same chemical composition and physical properties. The only difference lies in their origin—lab diamonds are created in controlled environments by experts, while natural diamonds are formed over billions of years in the Earth’s crust. Despite the difference in origin, both types of diamonds are genuine and of high quality.

In the debate between natural and lab-created diamonds, natural diamonds are undoubtedly unique and a marvel of nature. However, purchasing a natural diamond can come with certain disadvantages, such as high cost, ethical concerns, and environmental impact. Lab-grown diamonds, on the other hand, offer a more affordable, ethical, and sustainable alternative, without compromising on quality.

Ultimately, the choice between natural and lab-grown diamonds is personal, and whatever you decide, the emotional value of your diamond will remain significant. If you opt for a lab diamond, which is environmentally friendly, conflict-free, and cruelty-free, we invite you to explore Dhaduk Diamonds. We offer customizable, premium-quality diamonds and expert advice from our GIA graduate gemologists to help you find the perfect gemstone for your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Diamond Should You Buy?

If you want diamonds that are affordable and eco-friendly and have the same properties as mined diamonds then lab-created diamonds are perfect.

Are Lab Grown Diamonds Good?

Lab-grown diamonds are just as genuine as mined diamonds. In fact, these diamonds often possess superior cut, clarity, and fire when compared to natural diamonds. Fine Grown Diamonds and Dhaduk Diamonds both produce these high-quality, ethically sourced alternatives to traditional diamonds.

Are Lab-Grown Diamonds GIA Certified?

Lab-grown diamonds come with the same GIA certification as natural diamonds. Both lab-grown and natural diamonds are graded based on the 4Cs: Cut, Clarity, Color, and Carat weight, ensuring that lab-grown diamonds meet the same high standards as their mined counterparts.

Which Diamond Should You Buy?

If you’re looking for diamonds that are both affordable and eco-friendly, while offering the same properties as mined diamonds, lab-created diamonds are the perfect choice.

Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Good?

Yes, lab-grown diamonds are just as good as mined diamonds. They are 100% real and often feature a higher cut, clarity, and fire than natural diamonds.

Are Man-Grown Diamonds GIA-Certified?

Yes, lab-grown diamonds come with the same GIA certification as natural diamonds. Both lab-grown and natural diamonds are graded using the 4Cs: Cut, Clarity, Color, and Carat weight.