Lab-Grown vs. Natural Diamonds

Did you know that it is possible to grow diamonds in laboratories? And with the exact same qualities and authenticity of natural diamonds? Read on to learn more and have all your questions answered!


How Are Lab Grown Diamonds Different From Natural Diamonds?

Lab-grown diamonds are diamonds because they are made of pure carbon in the same cubic crystalline shape as natural diamonds. Rather than growing naturally and being extracted from the earth, lab-grown diamonds are manufactured in a laboratory. Laboratories use advanced technology and equipment to mimic the same circumstances that real diamonds face when they were formed beneath the Earth.

The main difference between laboratory-grown diamonds and natural diamonds is where they originate from. Other than that, laboratory-grown diamonds have essentially the same chemical, optical and physical qualities as natural diamonds, as well as the same crystal structure. By conforming to the 4Cs of cut, clarity, color, and carat, lab-grown diamonds are graded and certified in the same way as natural diamonds are.

Also, let us point out that lab-grown diamonds are separate things from what we call ‘simulants’. Simulants resemble diamonds yet are made from materials such as glass or cubic zirconia, hence they are short-lived; over time they will lose their shine and erode. On the other hand, lab grown diamonds are proper diamonds and harbor the exact properties of natural diamonds.

Pros and Cons: Lab Grown Diamonds vs Natural Diamonds

To the unaided eye, lab-grown diamonds can appear to be natural diamonds. Gemological laboratories with specialized instruments are usually the only ones that can determine their identity.

Pros

  • Consistency: Lab-grown diamonds have the same beauty and properties as mined diamonds though they are most likely to be more affordable due to several reasons. Every lab-grown diamond is produced uniformly in VS clarity and a very good cut grade. Advanced lab technology provides for consistent characteristics in diamonds and removes ‘rarity’ as a factor in pricing.
  • Color options: Growing in the lab also means that you can find diamonds with different colors which can be very rare and expensive in natural form. Lab-grown diamonds make splendid colorful stones more accessible.
  • Durability: Lab-grown diamonds have the exact same durability and long life as mined diamonds. That means they won't cloud over time and you'll be able to enjoy their radiance for years.
  • Ethical Aspect: All lab-grown diamonds are ethical, since they are not involved in any type of exploitation or corruption.

Cons

  • As they are produced in VS clarity, lab-grown diamonds are imperfect, meaning they can still have minor internal or surface inclusions similar to natural diamonds. Though let us remind you that VS clarity in natural diamonds are rare and precious while being invisible to the naked eye.
  • Lab-grown diamonds lack intrinsic rarity. They are consistently manufactured with the same properties. Whereas, all of the natural diamonds we have access to have already been meritoriously formed on the Earth, each of them are unique and precious.

At Eternate, we offer natural or lab-grown diamonds based on the statement and design of the piece. However, you can always contact us to customize your stone and metal choice. We will be happy to help you.