Lab grown diamonds have been around for a while now, but they have just started to become more widely known only recently. You might have heard a thing or two about them, but just like anything ‘new’ in the market, there is understandably some hesitance in making the purchase.
When it comes to buying diamonds, there are usually two factors that matter most: quality and cost. While mined diamonds are producing growing concerns amongst consumers for negative human and environmental impact, the decision to turn towards lab grown diamonds isn’t clear-cut either.
Some may still hold reservations that lab grown diamonds can’t sparkle as beautiful and bright as mined diamonds, or can’t replace the traditional stone. But are they true? Let’s take a closer look at the facts.
Where do lab diamonds come from?
Lab diamonds are grown in a controlled environment with extreme heat and pressure through two methods: High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD). Using advanced science and technology, they are able to grow in a replicated environment as mined diamonds – with a much shorter time and lesser carbon footprint.
Since lab grown diamonds are made from the same carbon material as mined diamonds, this makes them chemically and structurally similar too. They are also subjected to the same universal 4C grading for pricing and choosing a diamond: cut, carat, clarity and colour.
Are lab grown diamonds as good as mined diamonds?
Mined diamonds have long been the traditional choice in engagement rings, wedding bands and even other jewellery pieces like earrings and bracelets. Because they have reigned supreme in the industry for decades, many people still believe that they are the superior option.
So how do lab grown diamonds fare? As mentioned above, they are equal in quality, durability and appearance – but there is also one difference that you will be glad to know of!
– Appearance
It is impossible to differentiate a lab grown diamond from a mined diamond just by the naked eye. Deep expertise and special tools are required to tell them apart. They have the same types of colour or near colourless, and come in the same sizes and standard shapes.
To check on the origins of your diamond, take a look at its grading report. It will indicate whether the diamond is mined or lab grown, as well as the diamond’s score on all 4Cs, giving you confidence and assurance on its quality.
Star Carat Fancy Princess Diamond Ring
Slip on this elegant diamond ring on your finger – the solitaire is the most classic and traditional option. Set in 18K white gold, the lab grown diamonds are paved in a triangular tip setting to create a statement jewellery look!
Star Carat Fancy Heart Diamond Ring
Add a pop of love to your ensemble with a stunning lab grown diamond solitaire! This heart-shaped diamond setting is crafted from 18K white gold and adorned with many small diamonds to offer a romantic, feminine finish.
– Brilliance
Another concern is whether they shine like mined diamonds – and the answer is yes! Since both diamonds contain carbon and they share the same physical, optical and chemical properties, this means the sparkle of lab and mined diamonds are the same.
And just like mined diamonds, lab diamonds also have the same types of inclusions that will affect their brilliance and fire. But it’s not just all beauty – lab diamonds also match their mined counterparts on the Mohs Hardness Scale in terms of strength and durability!
Star Carat Classic Pave Diamond Ring
Enjoy more light and brilliance with this stunning diamond ring, set in 18K white gold and a classic pavé diamond setting. Rows of smaller diamonds are embedded on the band to emphasise more sparkle on your finger!
Star Carat Glamour Diamond Ring
You will love the pavé details on this beautiful diamond ring to give you the extra sparkle and shine! Set in 18K white gold, the elegant twisted setting complements the centre diamond and already glistening pavé band for a breathtaking look.
– Cost
With a shine just as bright as mined diamonds, there’s even more good news – lab diamonds cost only a fraction of the price! It can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars saved if you’re looking to splurge for a bigger carat. You can use those savings for your dream wedding, honeymoon destination or even your first home.
A lab grown diamond has its own value, which is determined by its 4C grading. This not only means you can maximise your budget with your preferred diamond characteristics and quality, but also get your money’s worth.
Star Carat Fancy Teardrop Diamond Ring
Go fancy without breaking the bank! This diamond ring features our fancy case teardrop setting which accentuates the solitaire centre stone. Designed in 18K white gold, the band is set with smaller diamonds to produce a sparkly result.
Star Carat Classic Trilogy Diamond Ring
Enjoy more savings and get more diamonds for your ring! This captivating three-stone ring is set in 18K white gold, perfect as an engagement ring to symbolise your past, present and future together as a couple.
Conclusion
The beauty of mined diamonds is undeniable. But with lab grown diamonds being brilliant, durable, free from earth mining concerns and luxurious at an affordable price point – what’s not to love? Time will only tell if they will completely replace mined diamonds, but for the time being, consumers can appreciate having a sustainable diamond alternative to shop for.
At SK Jewellery, our Star Carat collection
