Frequently Asked Questions About Lab Grown Diamonds: A New Era of Affordable Luxury
- Xana Diamonds
- Sep 27, 2024
- 7 min read
Updated: Oct 5, 2024
About Lab Diamonds
Cost V/S Value
Purchasing Lab Diamonds
General
About Lab Diamonds
What Are Lab Grown Diamonds?
Simply put, lab grown diamonds are real diamonds created in a controlled laboratory environment. They are not imitations or simulants but actual diamonds with the same chemical, physical, and optical properties as those found deep within the earth. Advanced technology replicates the natural diamond formation process, resulting in these stunning gemstones.
Lab grown diamonds cannot be distinguished from natural mined diamonds just by their physical properties.
Are Lab Grown Diamonds Real Diamonds?
If you've been wondering, "Are lab grown diamonds real diamonds?", the answer is an unequivocal yes. They share the same crystal structure, hardness, and brilliance as natural diamonds, making them indistinguishable to the naked eye.
What Is The Difference Between Lab Grown Diamonds And Natural Diamonds?
The primary difference between lab grown and natural diamonds is their origin. Natural diamonds are formed over billions of years under extreme pressure and temperature deep within the earth's mantle. Lab grown diamonds, however, are created in a matter of weeks or months using advanced technology that simulates these natural conditions.
What Are Lab Diamonds Made Of?
Did you know what diamonds are made of carbon? Lab grown diamonds are made of pure carbon, just like natural diamonds. The carbon atoms are arranged in a crystal lattice structure, which gives diamonds their renowned hardness and sparkle.
Are Lab Grown Diamonds As Strong As Mined Diamonds?
Lab grown diamonds are just as strong and durable as mined diamonds. They have the same hardness level (10 on the Mohs scale) and can withstand everyday wear and tear just like natural diamonds.
Are Lab Diamonds Better?
Are lab diamonds better than natural diamonds? It depends on what you value. Lab diamonds offer the same beauty and quality as natural diamonds but come with added benefits such as ethical sourcing and environmental sustainability. Additionally, they tend to be more affordable, allowing you to get more diamond for your money.
Do Lab Created Diamonds Test As Real?
In general, a lab diamond will test as a real diamond because they have the same chemical composition and physical properties as natural diamonds. Advanced testers and specialist equipment do have the ability to distinguish between lab created diamonds and real diamonds.
Can A Jeweler Tell Lab Created Diamonds From Natural Diamonds?
In most cases, a jeweler cannot tell the difference between a lab created diamond and a natural diamond without specialized equipment. Both types of diamonds are virtually indistinguishable to the naked eye.
Is Lab Diamond A Moissanite?
No, lab diamonds and moissanite are different. Moissanite is a diamond simulant made from silicon carbide. It has a similar appearance to diamonds but is not the same in terms of hardness or optical properties. Lab diamonds, on the other hand, are true diamonds made from pure carbon just like natural diamonds, with identical properties to those formed naturally.
Are Lab Grown Diamonds And Cubic Zirconia The Same Thing?
No, lab grown diamonds and cubic zirconia are not the same. Cubic zirconia is a synthetic material that resembles a diamond but lacks its hardness and brilliance. Lab grown diamonds are real diamonds, while cubic zirconia is a less expensive diamond simulant.
How Are Lab Created Diamonds Made?
Lab created diamonds are typically made using two methods: High Pressure, High Temperature (HPHT) or Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD). HPHT mimics the natural diamond-forming process by applying high pressure and temperature to carbon, while CVD creates diamonds by layering carbon atoms onto a diamond seed crystal in a vacuum chamber. Read our blog on how are lab diamonds created to understand these processes and the types of diamonds they create.
Cost V/S Value of Lab Diamonds
Are Lab Created Diamonds Worth Anything?
Absolutely. Lab created diamonds hold significant value, both monetarily and emotionally. Their value is determined by the same factors as mined diamonds—cut, color, clarity, and carat weight. However, because they are not constrained by the costs of mining, lab grown diamonds typically offer better value for the price.
Is A Lab Grown Diamond Valuable?
Yes, lab grown diamonds are valuable. They are prized for their brilliance and durability, just like natural diamonds. Their value may differ in the resale market compared to mined diamonds, but they are still considered valuable gemstones.
How Much Is a 1-Carat Diamond Worth?
The price of a 1-carat diamond varies depending on its quality and whether it is lab grown or natural. A lab grown 1-carat diamond can range from $1,000 to $4,000, while a natural 1-carat diamond may cost between $3,000 and $10,000 or more.
Why Are Lab Grown Diamonds Less Expensive Than Natural Diamonds?
Lab grown diamonds are less expensive because they don’t require the costly and time-consuming process of mining. Additionally, the supply chain for lab grown diamonds is more streamlined, reducing the overall cost.
How Expensive Are Lab Diamonds?
Lab grown diamonds are generally 20-40% less expensive than their natural counterparts of similar quality. This makes them an attractive option for those seeking luxury on a budget. Despite the lower price, they offer the same level of quality and brilliance.
Purchasing Lab Diamonds
Should I Buy A Lab Grown Diamond?
Choosing a diamond is an incredibly personal decision, one that reflects not just your style but your values and beliefs. Lab-grown diamonds offer a modern, conscious choice without sacrificing the timeless beauty of a diamond. They are real diamonds, sharing the same brilliance, clarity, and sparkle as mined ones, but with the added peace of mind that they’re created in a controlled, traceable environment.
Many people are drawn to lab diamonds for several reasons. Some love the fact that they can get a larger or higher-quality diamond for a more affordable price. Others appreciate that lab diamonds offer a more thoughtful approach to luxury, aligning with their desire to make choices that feel responsible. For those who value transparency and innovation, lab diamonds are the perfect blend of cutting-edge technology and lasting elegance.
At the end of the day, the diamond you choose is a reflection of who you are. Whether it's the allure of a sustainable option, the appeal of affordability, or simply the dazzling brilliance, a lab diamond allows you to celebrate love in a way that feels right for you.
Are Lab Grown Diamonds Certified?
Yes, lab grown diamonds do come with impartial third party certifications. The two most important of these are from the International Gemological Institute (IGI) and The Gemological Institute of America (GIA). Both these grade lab grown diamonds using the same criteria as natural diamonds, providing an unbiased assessment of their quality.
Can Lab Grown Diamonds Be Insured?
Yes, lab grown diamonds can be insured just like natural diamonds. It's important to get an appraisal and ensure your diamond is covered under your insurance policy, especially for high-value pieces.
Do Lab Created Diamonds Come With A Grading Certificate?
Yes, lab created diamonds often come with a grading certificate from a reputable gemological lab, detailing their cut, color, clarity, and carat weight, ensuring transparency in your purchase.
What Are The Benefits Of Lab Grown Diamonds Vs. Natural Diamonds?
The biggest benefit that a Lab grown diamond offers is the ability to have your dream jewelry crafted with larger sized diamonds within your budget. They provide the same beauty and brilliance as natural diamonds but with a lower environmental impact and a smaller price tag.
Where Do I Buy Lab Grown Diamonds?
Lab grown diamonds are available at various jewelry retailers, both online and in-store. Xana Diamonds, for example, offers a stunning collection of lab grown diamonds that combine luxury with affordability, making it easier than ever to find the perfect stone for any occasion.
General
Where Are Diamonds Found?
Natural diamonds are found in kimberlite pipes deep within the earth's crust, in countries like Russia, Botswana, Canada, and Australia. Lab grown diamonds, however, are produced in controlled environments in laboratories around the world.
How Do I Clean A Diamond Ring?
Cleaning a diamond ring is simple. Soak the ring in warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap for 15-20 minutes. Gently scrub with a soft toothbrush, rinse under warm water, and dry with a soft cloth. Regular cleaning will keep your diamond sparkling.
What Are Blood Diamonds?
Blood diamonds, or conflict diamonds, are mined in war zones and sold to finance armed conflict against governments. The ethical concerns surrounding blood diamonds have led many to choose lab grown diamonds, which are free from such associations. Read our blog on conflict diamonds to learn more about them.
What Are The 4 C’s?
The 4 C's—cut, color, clarity, and carat weight—are the standard criteria used to evaluate the quality and value of a diamond. Understanding these factors can help you make an informed decision when purchasing a diamond.
In the current market, another ‘C’ - namely Cost has evolved to be another important criteria in the decision making process of selecting the right diamond for your jewelry. You may read more on the 4 C's here.
How Do I Pick A Diamond Shape?
Choosing a diamond shape depends on personal preference and style. Popular shapes include round, princess, cushion, and emerald cuts. Each shape offers a different aesthetic, so consider what best suits your taste or the style of the person you’re buying for. At Xana Diamonds, we pride ourselves on our ability to provide you with any cut you desire even the rare ones like pie-cuts, Portuguese cuts, etc.
What Are Pavé Diamonds?
Pavé diamonds are small diamonds set closely together, usually on the band of a ring, to create a sparkling surface like our Astraea Engagement Ring shows below. They add extra brilliance to a piece of jewelry without the cost of larger diamonds.
What Are Colored Diamonds?
Colored diamonds, also known as fancy diamonds, come in various hues such as yellow, pink, blue, and green. These colors are rare in natural diamonds but can be more easily achieved in lab grown diamonds.
Are Diamonds Only Used For Jewelry?
While diamonds are most commonly associated with jewelry, they are also used in industrial applications due to their hardness. Diamonds are used in cutting tools, abrasives, and even in high-tech applications like semiconductors.
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