Deciding on the perfect diamond engagement ring can be overwhelming, especially if you don’t know a lot about diamonds. It’s a common misconception that a natural diamond, mined from the Earth, is the only way to say “I do.” In fact, in many cases, a lab grown diamond may actually be a better choice.
Lab grown diamonds are just as real and beautiful as natural ones. They also have some unique benefits that aren’t shared by Earth-mined diamonds. Don’t sell yourself short by overlooking high-quality, stunning lab-created diamonds in your search for the perfect ring. Keep reading to discover why a man-made diamond may just be the perfect way to symbolize your love!
What are lab grown diamonds?
As the name suggests, lab grown diamonds are man-made gemstones that are created over time under laboratory conditions. The first lab grown diamond was successfully synthesized by General Electric in 1954. The incredible quality of lab-created diamonds you can find today is the result of decades of research, innovation, and dedication around the world.
Lab diamonds are created over time using one of two approaches:
- High-pressure, high-temperature (HTHP)
- Chemical vapor decomposition (CVD)
Each of the above methods can create dazzling diamonds up to 10 carats and beyond, which are virtually indistinguishable from their Earth-mined counterparts.
Differences between lab-grown and natural diamonds
While lab-created and Earth-mined diamonds have a great deal in common – including their sparkling appearance, durability, and quality – there are some differences between natural vs lab diamonds, and it all has to do with where and how they’re created.
- Earth-mined diamonds were formed millions of years ago, while man-made diamonds can be created in a lab in approximately 6-10 weeks.
- Natural diamonds are created by extreme temperatures and pressures inside the Earth’s mantle, before being brought to the surface by volcanic activity. Lab grown diamonds are created under controlled conditions in a lab, using chemical or high temperature / high pressure processes.
- Most natural diamonds are produced overseas (leading producers include Russia, Botswana, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Australia), while lab grown diamonds may be entirely locally sourced.
Benefits to choosing a lab diamond for your engagement ring
Whether you’re selecting an engagement ring to surprise your special someone or you’re working as a couple to create a one-of-a-kind custom ring, there are a variety of reasons to consider choosing a lab grown diamond for your center stone. Here are a few of the advantages:
Lab grown diamonds are virtually indistinguishable from natural ones
Many people are surprised to discover that lab grown diamonds are actually real diamonds. They have the same visual, chemical, and physical properties as natural, Earth-mined diamonds. A diamond created in a lab is just as beautiful, sparkling, and eye-catching as a natural one. This makes them perfectly suitable to be used in creating fine jewelry, including engagement rings.
The supply chain is more ethical and environmentally friendly
One of the primary reasons many individuals and couples choose a lab-created diamond is that you can be sure you know where and how the gemstone was sourced. While there is a growing emphasis in the diamond industry on supply chains that prioritize conflict-free and ethically sourced natural diamonds, it’s more difficult to ensure the stone you choose was mined using sustainable and ethical methods.
With a lab grown diamond, you can rest assured you’re only choosing from ethical and sustainable diamond rings.
Lab grown diamonds are more affordable
Because of decades of technological advancement in laboratory methods, you can easily find gem-quality synthetic diamonds that are just as beautiful and sparkling as those mined from the Earth. However, lab grown diamonds tend to be less expensive compared to their natural counterparts – sometimes by up to 50%.
The reason? It all has to do with the simpler, more streamlined, and more localized supply chains in the market for lab grown diamonds. Since lab and natural diamonds are virtually the same in terms of appearance and quality, why not take advantage of the affordability offered by man-made diamonds?
Choose from our large selection of lab grown (and natural) diamonds and let us help make your engagement truly special!
Malka Diamonds is a truly local Portland jeweler. We consider it an honor to work with couples and individuals to find or design the diamond ring they’ve always dreamed of as they plan their nuptials and lives together. We have a wide variety of stunning, GIA-certified lab grown diamonds in addition to our stunning Earth-mined collection.
We’re here to answer any and all questions you may have, and we can’t wait to hear about your love story. Book your in-person or virtual consultation today. We look forward to working with you!