The main differences between lab-grown diamonds and real (natural) diamonds lie in their origin, formation process, and sometimes cost, but chemically and physically, they are nearly identical. If you are looking to buy lab grown diamonds there are many options but only a few offer quality and great service.
Here’s a breakdown of what separates them:
1. Origin and Formation
Natural Diamonds: These diamonds are formed deep within the Earth’s mantle, under extreme pressure and temperature conditions over billions of years. The carbon atoms crystallize into a diamond structure.
Lab-Grown Diamonds: Also known as synthetic diamonds, these are created in a laboratory using two main methods: High Pressure, High Temperature (HPHT): Mimics the natural conditions that create diamonds in the Earth.
Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD): Uses gases like methane and hydrogen to deposit carbon atoms onto a substrate, gradually building a diamond crystal.
2. Chemical Composition
Both natural and lab-grown diamonds are composed of pure carbon atoms arranged in a crystal lattice structure. There is no significant difference in the chemical structure between the two.
3. Physical Properties
Hardness and Durability: Both types of diamonds share the same hardness (10 on the Mohs scale), meaning they are equally durable.
Optical Properties: Lab-grown diamonds have the same brilliance and fire (sparkle) as natural diamonds, as they possess the same physical properties, such as refractive index and dispersion.
4. Inclusions and Impurities
Natural Diamonds: Typically have natural inclusions or “blemishes” formed over millions of years. These can be seen under magnification and are unique to each diamond.
Lab-Grown Diamonds: While they can have inclusions too, they tend to be different in appearance, often appearing as small metallic inclusions (due to the manufacturing process). These can often be detected with specialized equipment.
5. Cost
Lab-Grown Diamonds: These are generally less expensive than natural diamonds due to their faster and more controlled production process, which eliminates the need for mining and reduces scarcity.
Natural Diamonds: Their value is largely influenced by their rarity, the cost of extraction, and market demand, making them typically more expensive.
6. Environmental and Ethical Impact
Lab-Grown Diamonds: These are considered more eco-friendly, as they avoid the environmental impact associated with diamond mining, such as habitat destruction and water pollution.
Natural Diamonds: Mining can have significant environmental impacts, although the industry has made efforts to improve ethical practices, especially with certifications like Kimberley Process to ensure conflict-free sourcing.
7. Rarity and Perception
Natural Diamonds: They have been valued for centuries and are often considered rare and more prestigious due to their natural origin.
Lab-Grown Diamonds: While they are increasingly accepted, some people still view them as less prestigious because they are man-made. However, their quality and beauty are indistinguishable from natural diamonds.
In conclusion, while lab-grown diamonds and natural diamonds are nearly identical in chemical composition and appearance, their primary differences lie in their formation process, cost, and the perception of rarity.
When looking to buy lab-grown diamonds, there are several reputable options available online and in physical stores. The best place to buy depends on your preferences for convenience, budget, and quality. Here are some of the best places to consider:
1. Online Retailers Specializing in Lab-Grown Diamonds
Online stores often offer a larger selection of lab-grown diamonds with detailed information and competitive pricing. Many also provide free shipping and easy return policies.
Labrilliante for You: Making customers happy since 2014. Labrilliante is a manufacturer and wholesaler of lab-grown diamonds in the USA. They stand as a reliable partner due to our extensive inventory of lab stones, capable of satisfying diverse needs. They provide the option to choose diamonds in any shape, size, and color.
James Allen: Known for its large collection of high-quality lab-grown diamonds, James Allen offers a user-friendly website with 360° HD images of each diamond, making it easy to compare options. They also offer a wide variety of settings and customization options for engagement rings.
Blue Nile: One of the most well-known online jewelers, Blue Nile offers a range of lab-grown diamonds with a strong focus on education and customer service. They provide free shipping, easy returns, and a warranty.
Brilliant Earth: Specializing in ethically sourced diamonds, Brilliant Earth offers a good selection of lab-grown diamonds, and they emphasize sustainability in their business practices. They also offer customization for engagement rings.
Clean Origin: Clean Origin focuses exclusively on lab-grown diamonds and is dedicated to providing conflict-free, ethical diamonds. They offer a wide variety of rings and other diamond jewelry, and their website includes detailed information about each diamond.
Diamond Foundry: Diamond Foundry creates and sells lab-grown diamonds using the CVD method. They offer a selection of certified diamonds, and their diamonds are known for their high quality and craftsmanship.
2. Jewelry Stores Offering Lab-Grown Diamonds
Many traditional brick-and-mortar jewelers now offer lab-grown diamonds in addition to mined diamonds. Visiting a physical store may provide a hands-on experience and personal consultation with a jeweler.
Kay Jewelers: As one of the largest jewelry retailers, Kay offers a selection of lab-grown diamonds with a focus on affordability and accessibility. You can also find in-store financing options.
Zales: Zales offers a wide selection of lab-grown diamonds and is known for its customer-friendly return policies and financing options. They have a variety of engagement rings, necklaces, and other jewelry.
Tiffany & Co.: Tiffany now offers lab-grown diamonds, and they focus on craftsmanship and quality. Their lab-grown diamonds are created using sustainable methods, and they are backed by Tiffany’s renowned reputation for excellence.
Helzberg Diamonds: Helzberg offers a curated selection of lab-grown diamonds, including engagement rings and other jewelry. They also offer a lifetime warranty and free resizing.
3. Specialty Lab-Grown Diamond Retailers
Some companies focus exclusively on lab-grown diamonds and offer detailed education about the product, helping you understand the value and benefits of buying a lab-grown diamond.
Miadonna: Miadonna specializes in ethical diamonds and provides an extensive selection of high-quality lab-grown diamonds. They offer a wide range of engagement rings, and their focus is on sustainability.
Vrai: Known for their high-quality lab-grown diamonds and unique jewelry designs, Vrai sells only diamonds created in their own factory. They focus on creating sustainable and elegant jewelry.
4. Local Jewelers and Custom Designers
Many local jewelers are starting to offer lab-grown diamonds, and some specialize in custom designs. If you’re looking for something unique or want to work closely with a jeweler, this can be a great option. Look for jewelers who have a good reputation, read reviews, and ask if they offer lab-grown diamonds or can custom design a piece with them.
What to Look for When Buying Lab-Grown Diamonds:
Certification: Make sure the diamond comes with a certification from a reputable gemological laboratory, such as GIA (Gemological Institute of America) or IGI (International Gemological Institute). This ensures the quality and authenticity of the diamond.
Return Policy and Warranty: Look for stores that offer a solid return policy (at least 30 days) and a warranty for peace of mind.
Pricing: Compare prices across several stores to ensure you’re getting a good deal. Lab-grown diamonds are typically more affordable than mined diamonds, but prices can still vary.
Customer Service: Choose a retailer with excellent customer support. This can be especially important for questions about diamond selection, customization, and sizing.
The best place to buy lab-grown diamonds depends on your preference for shopping style (online vs. in-person) and the type of service you want. Online retailers like James Allen, Blue Nile, and Brilliant Earth are excellent for convenience and variety. If you prefer to shop in person, try Zales or Kay Jewelers, and for an exclusively lab-grown diamond experience, Clean Origin and Vrai are fantastic options.
