What Is the Difference Between Lab Grown and Natural Diamonds?
When you buy a diamond ring from your local jeweler, you’re getting natural diamonds, right?
Not necessarily.
There’s a new type of diamond on the market. Lab grown diamonds, or synthetic diamonds, have been a hot topic ever since their emergence. But what is the difference between lab grown and natural diamonds?
Natural diamonds cost more, but do lab grown diamonds make a worthy substitute? We’re here to explain everything you need to know.
Let’s get started.
Table of Contents
The Difference Between Lab Grown and Natural Diamonds
Lab grown and natural diamonds are composed of carbon atoms with a crystal lattice structure. This gives them their remarkable hardness and brilliance. However, they differ in several key aspects:
Origin
Natural diamonds have formed deep within the Earth’s mantle over billions of years through intense heat and pressure. They are then brought to the surface by volcanic eruptions or other geological processes.
Lab grown diamonds are created in a controlled laboratory environment. They are often referred to as “synthetic” or “man-made” diamonds. They are produced through two main methods: High-Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD).
If you are looking for the best deals on diamonds, you can look for lab grown diamonds for sale online. These shops can offer you with certified lab grown diamonds of all shapes and sizes.
Timeframe
Lab grown diamonds can be produced in a matter of weeks to a few months, depending on the method used. They are created relatively quickly compared to the geological processes required for natural diamonds. Natural diamonds take millions to billions of years to form, making them extremely rare and valuable.
Quality and Purity
Natural diamonds often contain impurities such as nitrogen. This can give them various colors.
The quality of natural diamonds can also vary widely depending on the type of diamond. Some have high clarity and color while others may have noticeable imperfections.
Lab grown diamonds can be produced with fewer impurities and defects. This results in diamonds with high clarity and color quality. However, the quality can still vary depending on the manufacturing process and the standards of the lab.
Cost
Generally, lab grown diamonds are more affordable than natural diamonds. The controlled production process allows for cost-effective manufacturing. Natural diamonds, especially those with high quality and large sizes, can be very expensive due to their rarity.
Certification and Identification
Lab grown diamonds are typically identified and certified. They may have laser inscriptions or other markings to distinguish them from natural diamonds.
Natural diamonds are identified as such through geological testing and grading. But they don’t need certification to prove their origin.
Differentiating Lab Grown and Natural Diamonds
The difference between lab grown and natural diamonds is identifiable. Both offer beautiful pieces of diamond jewelry.
Natural diamonds are more expensive but should maintain their value better over time. Lab grown diamonds are less expensive and can be obtained faster.
Both diamonds have similar properties and each has its own unique characteristics. To find your perfect diamond, check out your nearest diamond retailer today!
Did this article help you? If so, take a look at some of our other blog posts for more informative reads.
Last Updated on September 10, 2023
