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There is a new player that has come to the fore in recent years in the field of jewelry and luxury gemstones – laboratory diamonds, often also referred to as lab grown diamonds. These innovative stones are not simply an alternative to traditional natural diamonds, but they are the embodiment of technological advances that are changing the way we think about luxury, environmental responsibility and ethics. Why have lab grown diamonds been attracting increasingly more attention, how are they created and why could they be the choice of the future? Find out in our article.
How are lab diamonds created?
The process of creating lab diamonds is fascinating and sophisticated, allowing scientists to create gems that are not only comparable to natural diamonds, but often surpass them in terms of quality and verifiable provenance. There are two main technologies that are used in laboratories, namely the HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature) and CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition) method.
HPHT is a process that simulates the natural conditions in which diamonds form deep below the earth’s surface. This method creates diamonds by using high temperatures and pressure that approximate conditions in the Earth’s crust. The diamond crystals are thus formed in a very similar way to that in nature.
Unlike HPHT, CVD technology relies on plasma from the gaseous form of carbon that is deposited on a substrate to gradually form a diamond structure. This method of producing diamonds is considered to be more environmentally friendly and allows scientists to better influence the final appearance and quality of the diamonds.
These processes result in diamonds that are chemically and physically identical to natural ones, although they are created in a significantly shorter amount of time. Natural diamonds are formed under extreme pressure and temperatures deep below the Earth’s surface over millions to billions of years, whereas laboratory diamonds can be produced in a matter of weeks.
The advantages of laboratory diamonds – why choose them?
A revolution in the diamond industry has been started by laboratory diamonds, which, as we have already said, have the same visual, chemical and physical properties as mined diamonds. In addition, they are not only an environmentally friendly alternative to natural diamonds, but above all, a more affordable solution that matches the quality of traditional natural diamonds. The lower price is an essential factor for many customers – it allows them to purchase a piece of jewelry with a diamond of the same size, quality and appearance at a significantly more favorable price. In addition, laboratory diamonds are more environmentally and ethically friendly, which only adds to their appeal.
The three major advantages of laboratory diamonds
- The price – lab diamonds are often up to 30-50% cheaper than natural diamonds. The availability of this lower cost option makes them an attractive choice not only for younger generations, but also for those who want to invest in beauty and quality without putting a greater strain on the budget.
- The ecological footprint – lab diamond production has a significantly lower environmental impact than natural diamond mining. It doesn’t require large machinery, extensive mines or massive consumption of water. This makes the whole process more sustainable and friendly to the planet.
- Ethical considerations – many customers today think about the provenance of the goods they buy. Lab grown diamonds ensure that the rights of workers and local communities have not been violated in their creation, making them an attractive choice for morally conscious consumers.
The myths vs reality: Can a professional recognize a lab diamond?
One persistent myth is that lab diamonds are imitations or somehow inferior. However, in reality, this is not the case. The chemical composition, hardness and optical properties of lab diamonds are exactly the same as of natural diamonds. It is virtually impossible for the average consumer to tell whether a diamond has been created naturally or in a laboratory. In fact, even experienced gemologists need special instruments to be able to spot a lab diamond.
The future of jewelry making: Where are lab diamonds heading?
While traditional diamonds will always have a place in the jewelry industry, lab diamonds offer a modern, ethical and sustainable alternative. This makes them a popular choice among those looking for something glamorous without compromising on quality. Lab diamonds therefore not only represent an innovation in technology, but also a new way of thinking about luxury. The future of jewelry can involve more than just beauty – it can also bring with it responsibility and the story of modern progress.