Lab-Grown Diamonds
What is a Lab-Grown Diamond?
Lab-grown diamonds, also known as man-made or created diamonds, are produced in a laboratory environment. These diamonds are physically identical to mined ones, with the only difference being their origin. Lab-created diamonds undergo the same growth process as mined diamonds, starting as carbon atoms under high temperature and pressure, bonding together to form a crystalline lattice structure. After reaching full growth, they are cut and polished to achieve maximum brilliance, and come in a range of colors and clarities, just like mined diamonds.
ARE LAB CREATED DIAMONDS REAL?
Yes, lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds. They have the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as diamonds that are mined from the earth. The only difference is their origin. Lab-grown diamonds are created in a controlled laboratory environment, while natural diamonds are formed deep within the earth over millions of years. Both types of diamonds are composed of pure carbon and are graded on the same 4Cs criteria - carat weight, color, clarity, and cut.
Why should I purchase a lab grown diamond?
Looking for reasons to consider buying a lab-grown diamond? Look no further! We offer an elegant selection of engagement rings with lab-grown diamonds that come with some impressive advantages :Go bigger, better, and brighter: Lab-grown diamonds typically receive higher ratings than mined ones on traits such as purity, clarity, and brightness. Plus, with lab-grown diamonds being significantly more affordable, you can get a larger carat-sized center stone, with zero imperfections and a brilliant cut & flawless shape.
Why are lab-grown diamonds less costly than mined ones?
Well the answer is certainly not because of their quality. The reason has to do with the way they are created which in comparison to mined diamonds is vastly more efficient. They require no excavation over large regions of land or millions of years.
How Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Made?
Lab-grown diamonds are created using two primary methods: chemical vapor deposition (CVD) and high pressure, high temperature (HPHT).
The HPHT Method
The latter method, while effective, is known to be more expensive and less energy-efficient. With HPHT, a diamond seed is placed into pure carbon and subjected to extreme pressure and heat. Through this thermodynamic process, the carbon attaches to the diamond seed in 14 different directions, resulting in a rough diamond with a complex cuboctahedron shape.
The CVD Method
Compared to HPHT, chemical vapor deposition (CVD) is a more cost-effective and eco-friendly method of producing lab-grown diamonds. This process involves the use of vacuum chambers to convert carbon-heavy gases into plasma, with significantly lower energy consumption. Inside the chamber, the carbon atoms build up on the diamond seed in a single vertical direction, leading to the formation of a cleaner square-shaped rough diamond due to the kinetics involved in the process.
How Long Does It Take A Lab-Grown Diamond To Grow?
After growing for around a month, a lab-grown diamond undergoes cutting and polishing processes before being available for purchase as loose diamonds or for setting in fine jewellery.
Where and how are lab grown diamonds manufactured?
It is self-evident that lab grown diamonds are created in specialized laboratories but as you’ve probably guessed, the process of forming these precious stones requires a high level of scientific knowledge and expertise. These advanced facilities are operated by highly trained professionals utilizing cutting(no pun intended)-edge technology that translates to 2 distinct methods of diamond creation. These are CVD - Chemical Vapor Deposition and HPHT – High Pressure High Temperature.
