Lab diamonds are now fast becoming favorites of consumers as they offer the same cut, color, clarity, and carat as mined diamonds, with conscience and wallet-friendly prices. These gems are physically, chemically, and optically identical to natural diamonds but they are grown in a laboratory setting. As awareness regarding the actions taken to preserve the environment and the usual diamond mining process is increasing, lab diamonds are proving to be popular.
In this article, you will learn what you need to know about lab diamonds; what they are, how they’re created, all the multiple benefits that are associated with them, as well as other important considerations to make when choosing a lab diamond.
What Are Lab Diamonds?
Conflict-free diamonds, also referred to as manufactured or synthetic diamonds are imitation gemstones that are artificially produced in the laboratory. Using advanced technology, these diamonds are created through two primary methods: HPHT (high-pressure and high-temperature) and CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition). The two methods yield stones that are as perfect as those mined naturally and as flawless as they come in the real world.
The Creation Process
Before delving deeper, let us understand the two processes of creating lab diamonds in detail:
High-pressure high-temperature (HPHT): It mimics the natural conditions in which diamond forms. To grow a diamond, a tiny diamond seed is put into a chamber containing carbon where they are subjected to high pressures as well as high temperatures. In time, the carbon forms a crystal around the seed, and we have a diamond.
Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD): This method needs the use of a diamond seed in a vacuum vessel containing carbon-based gases. The gases are heated so that the carbon will stick to the seed and then gradually build up to form a diamond.
Both methods guarantee that lab diamonds are indistinguishable from natural diamonds in terms of chemical and physical properties like hardness and brilliance.
The Benefits of Lab Diamonds
You must be wondering what is the benefit of going for a lab-grown diamond. Here are some advantages that you should know:
1. Ethical Sourcing
Among other benefits of lab diamonds, the fact that they are completely free from unethical practices cannot be denied. Conventional method of diamond mining was criticized concerning its impact on human rights and the environment. On the other hand, synthetic diamonds are cultured right under laboratories, hence excluding these ethical issues.
2. Affordability
Lab-grown diamonds are generally 20-40% cheaper than natural diamonds. This disparity mostly stems from their lower fabrication expenses and their elimination of mining sector costs. For many buyers, this translates to being able to buy a bigger or higher quality diamond with the same amount of money they used before. Through such an affordability structure, a ring from lab-created diamond for engagement in Austria becomes viable in the market, especially for couples.
3. Variety and Customization
Lab-grown diamonds are available in a number and variety of shapes, sizes, and qualities. It also comes in different shapes, ranging from traditional round shapes to cuts like emerald or pear, making it possible for buyers to get the shapes they prefer. Many jewelry stores for lab-grown diamonds in Austria provide services where every couple can come up with the best ring or any other preferred jewelry through the customization process.
4. Environmental Impact
Diamond mining’s consequence is that large areas of land can be affected and its ecosystems degraded. Lab diamonds are a far better choice as they are created using fewer resources and emit few by-products. For example, lab diamonds in Austria offer an eco-friendly option for shopping if you want to support sustainability.
Things To Look Into When Choosing Lab Diamonds
If you have made up your mind to buy lab-grown diamonds, here are some things to keep in mind so that you make the perfect purchase:
1. Certification
As with any natural diamond, lab-grown diamonds should also be accompanied by a grading report from a renowned gemological laboratory. Certificates allow customers to be informed about the basic characteristics of diamonds such as their cut, color, clarity, and size. Licenses from well-recognized bodies like the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) & International Gemological Institute (IGI) are recommended.
2. Understanding the 4 Cs
The value of a diamond is often determined by the “4 Cs”, namely, Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat weight. Cut has to do with how well the material that forms the diamond has been shaped and the degree of hardening or polishing given to it to make it glitter or sparkle. Secondly, lab diamonds have a color scale, with the best diamonds being those without any shades of color. Clarity estimates the irregularities or spots on the inner surface of the diamond. High clarity implies lower flaw content in the product. Carat is used to mean the weight of the diamond as the bigger diamonds cost more money.
3. Choose a Reputable Retailer
When buying lab diamonds, consumers should only get them from trustworthy jewelers. Search for retailers that deal with cultured diamonds and then check whether customers have left positive reviews about them. For example, for a lab-grown diamond in Austria, an experienced jewelry expert can assist one in making the right choice of the best diamond.
4. Warranty and Return Policy
Read the warranty and return policy before you order the product. A good retailer will provide the customer with a warranty on the diamond so that it can be fixed in case of any issues. Moreover, the possibility of easy returns gives assurance that if the diamond does not meet your expectations, you can return it.
The Future of Lab Diamonds
As consumers become more knowledgeable about the issue, the market for lab diamonds is anticipated to expand. More people are beginning to appreciate ethical sourcing, cheap prices, and its impact on the natural environment.
Currently, the laboratory-grown diamonds market continues to grow in Austria and across Europe as more retailers adapt to offer beautifully created gemstones. It is a new fashion as consumer behavior has changed and now lab diamonds are being used for engagements, weddings, and other occasions.
Conclusion
Lab-grown diamonds are the new, safe, and inexpensive substitute for traditional diamonds. Long-lasting and carefully designed, they are gradually being adopted by consumers as they add value to daily use. Being informed on lab diamond advantages and differences will be of great help in making the right choice. In your quest to purchase these cherished stones, bear in mind that these stones symbolize love and commitment to sustainable and ethically sound mining practices.