Natural diamonds are among the most beautiful structures we know of. When carbon falls under the right temperature and pressure conditions, a breathtaking diamond can form. Normally, this process happens in nature, which is why mining for diamonds is necessary to find the most stunning gems. But over the past several years, lab-grown diamonds have become more and more sought-after. 

Lab-Grown Diamonds Defined

What is a lab-grown diamond in the first place? As the name suggests, these diamonds are made by humans in a lab instead of by pressure and temperature over time. You might also hear these stones called “lab-created diamonds,” “cultured diamonds,” “engineered diamonds,” or “man-made diamonds.”

Lab-grown diamonds require strict, highly controlled environments in order to thrive. Scientists can mimic the processes found in nature with today’s most cutting-edge technological processes. Carbon atoms are combined and arranged in the classic diamond crystal structure we see in mined diamonds. 

The process used for creating lab-grown diamonds is known as chemical vapor deposition, or CVD. CVD is a completely sustainable procedure that allows diamonds to be made without sacrificing quality or risking the beauty of the diamond or the safety of the jeweler. If it’s particularly important to you that your new accessory was made in an ethical way, choosing a lab-grown diamond is a great way to fulfill that request. 

Lab-Grown vs. Natural Diamonds

Lab-grown and mined diamonds have one key element in common: their appearance. To the naked eye, there is no difference between a diamond from nature and one from the lab. These two types of diamonds also have the same chemical properties, meaning a lab-grown diamond is just as strong as a mined one. 

Both mined and lab-grown diamonds undergo a rigorous certification and grading process before becoming available for sale. Gemologists consider the 4 C’s when grading a lab-grown diamond, just like its counterpart: cut, clarity, color, and carat. While the grading process is the same, lab-grown diamonds are typically much less costly than mined ones. 

There may be some minute differences between lab-grown and natural diamonds, but these small elemental discrepancies can usually only be recognized using special testing equipment. Lab-grown diamonds are appraised and certified in just the same manner as mined diamonds, and they also come with their own certificates of gem certification. 

Why Opt for a Lab-Grown Diamond?

If given the choice, why should you consider a lab-grown diamond over a mined one? First, the prices on lab-grown diamonds are often significantly lower than their natural counterparts. Even though they look identical, lab-grown diamonds are much easier to make or procure, so they’re less expensive for the customer.

Lab-grown diamonds are also more environmentally friendly and less likely to have defects than mined diamonds. Man-made diamonds can come in any color you please and offer a bright, pure quality that not every natural diamond can imitate. 

Find the Perfect Diamond at Gold City Jewelers

Whether you choose a lab-grown or mined diamond, the team at Gold City Jewelers can help make sure you’re thrilled with your decision. Our experts can explain all the details and features of each diamond you see in our showroom, and they can help you decide on your perfect piece based on your budget and the style of the wearer. 

Purchasing a diamond is a big decision, but you don’t have to do it alone. Let the team at Gold City Jewelers help you find the diamond of your (or her) dreams!