What’s the Difference Between Lab Created Diamonds and Real Diamonds?

Find out the information you need about What’S The Difference Between Lab Created Diamonds And Real Diamonds in this article, all summarized clearly by us.

Before I delve into the details, let me share a personal anecdote. When my fiancée and I started looking at engagement rings, I was immediately drawn to the brilliance and fire of diamonds. However, I was shocked by the price tag associated with natural diamonds. As a young couple starting our lives together, we couldn’t justify spending tens of thousands of dollars on a ring. That’s when I stumbled upon lab-created diamonds, which offered the same beauty and durability of natural diamonds at a fraction of the cost.

Lab-Created Diamonds vs. Real Diamonds: A Closer Look

1. Definition and History

Lab-created diamonds, also known as synthetic diamonds, are diamonds that are grown in a laboratory. They are chemically and physically identical to natural diamonds, but they are created in a controlled environment using advanced technology. The process of creating lab-created diamonds mimics the conditions under which natural diamonds are formed in the earth’s mantle. Carbon atoms are subjected to high pressure and temperature, resulting in the formation of diamond crystals. The first lab-created diamond was created in 1954 by General Electric. However, it wasn’t until the 1990s that technology advanced enough to produce lab-created diamonds that were indistinguishable from natural diamonds.

Real diamonds, on the other hand, are formed naturally over billions of years deep within the earth’s mantle. They are brought to the surface through volcanic eruptions or by mining operations. Real diamonds are extremely rare, which contributes to their high value.

2. Chemical and Physical Properties

Both lab-created diamonds and real diamonds are composed of pure carbon atoms arranged in a cubic crystal structure. This arrangement gives diamonds their exceptional hardness, durability, and brilliant sparkle. In terms of their chemical and physical properties, lab-created diamonds are virtually identical to real diamonds. They have the same hardness, refractive index, and thermal conductivity. This means that even experts can only distinguish between lab-created diamonds and real diamonds using specialized equipment.

3. Value and Price

One of the most significant differences between lab-created diamonds and real diamonds is their price. Lab-created diamonds are typically sold at a significantly lower price than real diamonds. This is because the production costs of lab-created diamonds are much lower than the mining costs of real diamonds. The price of a lab-created diamond can vary depending on the size, cut, color, and clarity, just like real diamonds. However, on average, lab-created diamonds are about 20-40% cheaper than real diamonds.

4. Ethical Implications

The ethical implications of lab-created diamonds versus real diamonds are a matter of debate. Some people believe that lab-created diamonds are a more ethical choice because they do not involve the mining of natural resources. Mining operations can damage the environment and can also lead to human rights abuses. Additionally, lab-created diamonds do not contribute to the funding of conflict zones. However, others argue that the production of lab-created diamonds still requires energy and resources, which can also have an environmental impact.

Tips for Choosing Between Lab-Created and Real Diamonds

When choosing between lab-created diamonds and real diamonds, there are several factors to consider. First, you need to decide what is most important to you. If you are looking for the most affordable option, lab-created diamonds are a great choice. If you are looking for a diamond with a long history and tradition, a real diamond may be a better option. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual preferences and budget.

Here are some additional tips for choosing between lab-created and real diamonds:

Consider your budget. Lab-created diamonds are a more affordable option than real diamonds.
Think about your values. If you are concerned about the environmental impact of diamond mining, lab-created diamonds may be a better choice.
Do your research. There are many resources available online that can help you learn more about lab-created diamonds and real diamonds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are lab-created diamonds as valuable as real diamonds?

A: No. Lab-created diamonds are typically sold at a lower price than real diamonds.

Q: Can you tell the difference between a lab-created diamond and a real diamond?

A: Only experts can distinguish between lab-created diamonds and real diamonds using specialized equipment.

Q: Are lab-created diamonds as durable as real diamonds?

A: Yes. Lab-created diamonds are chemically and physically identical to real diamonds, so they have the same hardness and durability.

Q: Are lab-created diamonds ethical?

A: The ethical implications of lab-created diamonds versus real diamonds are a matter of debate.

Conclusion

Whether you choose a lab-created diamond or a real diamond, you can rest assured that you will be getting a beautiful and durable piece of jewelry. Both types of diamonds have their unique advantages and disadvantages. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual preferences and budget. I hope this article has been informative and has helped you better understand the differences between lab-created diamonds and real diamonds. If you have any further questions, please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below.

Are you interested in learning more about diamonds? If so, I encourage you to check out the following resources: