Since time immemorial, diamonds have been associated with luxury, purity, and elegance. Diamonds form over many years under the immense pressure and heat prevailing at the Earth's core and require extensive mining operations to be unearthed. Over the years, technological advancements created the unprecedented possibility of producing lab-grown diamonds. In the following guide, we will try to bring some order in distinguishing between natural diamonds and lab-grown diamonds, comparing their key properties, and understanding when each is the preferred choice.
What are natural diamonds?
Natural diamonds are often perceived as a wonder of nature. They are formed within the Earth’s mantle over many years under extreme conditions of high pressure and heat, emerging to the surface through rare volcanic eruptions.
The process of creating natural diamonds is undoubtedly a fascinating geological activity, but what is no less fascinating is the unique characteristics of each natural diamond. Every one possesses distinctive qualities that sets it apart from the others, such as size, clarity, color, and imperfections. No two diamonds are ever identical, just like no two individuals are replicas of each other.
What are lab-grown diamonds?
Laboratory-grown diamonds, sometimes referred to as synthetic diamonds or cultured diamonds, are created in a laboratory setting by skilled experts. In the process of creating these diamonds, laboratories seek to replicate the high pressure and high temperature conditions found within the Earth’s mantle, through which natural diamonds form over billions of years. This synthetic process allows for the production of diamonds without the extended waiting period.
Unlike natural diamonds, each of which are unique due to their natural formation process, laboratory-grown diamonds can be created with specific characteristics, such as size, clarity, color, and lack of imperfections. They are a human-made alternative to natural diamonds, crafted in a controlled environment.
Laboratory-grown diamonds have a positive environmental footprint. Since these diamonds are produced without mining, there is no associated environmental impact, such as habitat destruction, water pollution, soil degradation, deforestation, or loss of biodiversity. Laboratory-grown diamonds are a “green” and environmentally friendly option compared to natural diamonds.
Is there a difference between natural diamonds and laboratory-grown diamonds?
Traditionally, the high value ascribed to diamonds is derived from their rarity and natural origin. Due to this perception, individuals contemplating the purchase of a diamond find themselves wondering if laboratory-grown diamonds are of the same quality as natural diamonds and whether it makes sense to choose laboratory-grown diamonds over regular diamonds.
It is time to dispel old-fashioned beliefs and outdated assumptions. The human eye cannot discern any essential difference between a genuine diamond and a laboratory-grown one. The American Gem Trade Association determined in 2019 that a diamond created in a laboratory is identical in every respect to natural diamonds sold in diamond markets. This decision is based on a wide range of chemical parameters, scientific measurements, and various characteristics such as the diamond’s specific gravity, appearance, and hardness.
Compelling evidence that there is no perceptible difference between natural and laboratory-grown diamonds is the fact that many globally renowned personalities proudly wear laboratory-grown diamonds. Celebrities such as Rihanna, Lady Gaga, Meghan Markle, and Penelope Cruz have adorned themselves with cultured diamonds.
Ultimately, one of the significant advantages of laboratory-grown diamonds is their attractive pricing compared to natural diamonds. In a rough estimate, laboratory-grown diamonds are generally priced at about 30-50% less than natural diamonds of similar quality. This price difference makes quality diamonds more accessible for a broader range of consumers who wish to enjoy a well-designed diamond without emptying their pockets.