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Introduction: The Evolution of Diamonds
For centuries, diamonds have been regarded as a symbol of luxury, love, and timeless elegance. Traditionally, diamonds have been mined from deep within the Earth, a process that requires significant resources and has ethical and environmental implications. However, in recent years, lab grown diamond vs real diamond (also referred to as lab made diamonds) have emerged as a sustainable and affordable alternative to natural diamonds, also known as real diamonds. As the demand for more eco-conscious and ethical products grows, many consumers are asking: What’s the difference between a lab grown diamond and a real diamond?
In this article, we’ll explore the key differences between lab grown diamonds vs real diamonds, and why lab made diamonds are becoming increasingly popular.
What Are Lab Grown Diamonds?
Lab grown diamonds are diamonds that are created in a laboratory using advanced technological methods that replicate the natural conditions under which diamonds form in the Earth’s crust. The two main processes used to create lab made diamonds are:
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High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT): This method mimics the extreme pressure and temperature conditions found in the Earth’s mantle, where diamonds naturally form.
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Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD): In this process, carbon atoms are deposited onto a substrate, forming a diamond crystal layer by layer.
Both methods result in a diamond that is chemically and physically identical to a natural, real diamond. This includes the same hardness (10 on the Mohs scale), brilliance, and overall appearance.
What Are Real Diamonds?
Real diamonds, often referred to as natural diamonds, are formed over billions of years under intense heat and pressure deep within the Earth’s mantle. The carbon atoms in these diamonds are subjected to extreme conditions, resulting in the formation of a crystal structure that is recognized for its durability, brilliance, and beauty. The mining process for natural diamonds can be both labor-intensive and environmentally disruptive, contributing to concerns about sustainability and ethical practices.
Real diamonds are typically evaluated using the famous 4 Cs—cut, color, clarity, and carat weight—each of which influences their value and quality.
Key Differences: Lab Grown Diamonds vs Real Diamonds
1. Origin
The most obvious difference between lab grown diamonds vs real diamonds is their origin. Lab grown diamonds are created in a controlled laboratory environment, while real diamonds are naturally formed over millions of years in the Earth’s crust. Although they share the same physical properties, the origin of the diamond can influence how it is perceived by some consumers.
Lab grown diamonds are considered an ethical and sustainable option because their production process doesn’t involve mining, which is often associated with environmental degradation and human rights concerns. On the other hand, real diamonds, especially those that come from conflict zones, can raise ethical questions due to the potential for exploitation.
2. Cost
One of the major advantages of lab made diamonds over real diamonds is their price. Lab grown diamonds are typically 20-40% less expensive than natural diamonds of similar size, cut, and quality. The cost savings are mainly due to the fact that lab grown diamonds do not require mining, and the production process is less resource-intensive.
For consumers on a budget who want the look and feel of a diamond without the high price tag, lab made diamonds offer an excellent alternative. This price difference allows consumers to buy a larger or higher-quality lab grown diamond for the same price as a smaller or lower-quality natural diamond.
3. Quality
In terms of quality, both lab grown diamonds and real diamonds are virtually identical. Both types of diamonds are graded based on the 4 Cs (cut, color, clarity, and carat weight), and the grading system applies equally to both. When properly cut and polished, lab grown diamonds can be indistinguishable from natural diamonds to the naked eye.
The only real difference in quality may come from the diamond’s origin—lab grown diamonds can sometimes be slightly more consistent in quality due to the controlled environment in which they are created. Real diamonds, by contrast, can have natural inclusions (internal flaws) that add character to each stone. However, these inclusions are often so small that they are not visible to the naked eye.
4. Environmental Impact
The environmental impact is a key difference between lab grown diamonds vs real diamonds. Mining for natural diamonds can cause significant damage to the environment, including deforestation, soil erosion, and the use of harmful chemicals. In contrast, lab grown diamonds are far more eco-friendly, as their production takes place in a laboratory with far less environmental disruption.
For environmentally conscious consumers, lab grown diamonds are an appealing option. They offer a way to enjoy the beauty of diamonds without contributing to the environmental degradation caused by traditional diamond mining.
5. Resale Value
One significant downside of lab made diamonds compared to real diamonds is their resale value. Real diamonds often hold their value well, and in some cases, may even appreciate over time, depending on the market. In contrast, lab grown diamonds typically do not retain as much resale value as natural diamonds. This is because lab grown diamonds are considered to be mass-produced, and the resale market for them is not as established as for natural diamonds.
However, for most buyers, the price savings upfront when purchasing a lab grown diamond outweigh the potential loss in resale value. Additionally, if the buyer values the ethical and sustainable benefits, they may not mind the difference in resale potential.
6. Rarity
One of the defining features of real diamonds is their rarity. Natural diamonds are rare, and their scarcity contributes to their high value. Lab grown diamonds, while still a marvel of modern technology, are more abundant and can be produced on demand. As a result, they are not considered as rare or as exclusive as natural diamonds, which can impact their perceived value in some circles.
Despite this, many consumers find that the rarity of real diamonds is less important than the ethical and sustainable benefits of choosing a lab grown diamond.
Conclusion: Lab Grown Diamonds vs Real Diamonds – Which Should You Choose?
When considering lab grown diamonds vs real diamonds, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and values. If you’re seeking an affordable, sustainable, and ethical option without compromising on quality, lab made diamonds are a fantastic choice. They offer the same brilliance, hardness, and beauty as real diamonds, without the environmental and ethical concerns associated with mining.
However, if rarity, resale value, and the traditional appeal of natural diamonds are important to you, then a real diamond may be the better option. Both types of diamonds have their merits, and the choice depends on your priorities and what matters most to you in a diamond purchase.