In this article, we know the different between lab diamonds vs real diamonds. Lab diamonds are created in laboratories and are used in many different ways. But are they better than real diamonds? Let’s look at the pros and cons. This article will discuss the cost, carbon footprint, and strength of lab diamonds. You’ll also learn about their chemical composition and optics.
Cost
Lab diamonds are a new technology. They are similar to natural mined diamonds. However, there are several differences. The most important is that lab created diamonds are far less expensive than natural diamonds.
According to Bain & Company, the cost of producing a one carat lab grown diamond was $4000 in 2008, and has been dropping since then. For instance, the average online price of a round lab grown diamond was $10,300 in the second quarter of 2016.
Nevertheless, the cost of purchasing a lab-grown diamond is a fraction of that of a naturally mined diamond. As a result, consumers are able to purchase beautiful and ethically sourced diamonds at a more reasonable price.
The price of a lab-grown diamond can vary dramatically depending on the cut, color and metal of the stone. A diamond with a larger carat weight will be more expensive.
Chemical composition
The chemical composition of lab diamonds is very similar to that of natural diamonds. There are only differences in the ways they are made.
Lab-grown diamonds are manufactured by an artificial method that replicates the conditions of natural diamond formation. This process is known as Chemical Vapor Deposition. It uses high pressure and rapid cooling to provide the right conditions for crystallization.
The process is so efficient that it can produce a diamond in two weeks. However, this does not mean that the results are perfect. In fact, a trained geologist will be unable to tell the difference between a natural diamond and a lab-grown diamond.
A lab-grown diamond is just as hard as a natural diamond and will pass the same tests. However, their price and resale value will be lower.
Optics
If you’re considering getting a diamond, you should learn about the differences between lab diamonds and natural diamonds. The main difference between these two types of stones is their optical and physical properties.
There are several different kinds of crystals that are manufactured to look like diamonds. Cubic zirconia and moissanite are both examples. However, these diamond simulants do not have the same brilliance or sparkle as a real diamond.
Natural diamonds are produced in the earth’s crust, usually over hundreds of years. This process creates imperfections. Point defects and impurity atoms can affect the fundamental physical and electronic properties of a diamond.
On the other hand, lab diamonds are created in a controlled laboratory environment. They are made from carbon atoms that are arranged in a cubic crystal structure.
Strength
Many consumers are confused when it comes to the difference between lab diamonds vs real diamonds. Both are carbon based and share many of the same properties and characteristics. However, they are different in some important ways.
For starters, natural diamonds are mined from underground deposits. They are formed over millions of years. As a result, they are the toughest mineral on Earth. Natural diamonds are rare and therefore cost more. Lab created diamonds are more affordable and easier to find.
Lab created diamonds can range in quality. The International Gemological Institute (GIA) grades them according to their size, clarity, colour, and cut grade. While they can be very similar to their mined counterparts, their resale value will not match that of the natural variety.
Carbon footprint
Lab diamonds are marketed as environmentally friendly alternatives to mined diamonds. They are grown in labs in China, Singapore, and the US. The production process may include fossil fuels, but much of the energy used is renewable.
Lab diamonds have lower carbon emissions than mined diamonds, but not necessarily because they use less energy or water. Some companies are using renewable energy to produce them, but others do not.
Mined diamonds require a lot of energy, water, and heavy machinery. They displace thousands of tonnes of rock and release pollutants. Mining also causes habitat destruction. For every carat of mined diamonds, 160 kgs of C02 are released into the air.
Lab created diamonds, on the other hand, emit only 6 pounds of carbon per carat. They also use far less water and no Sulphur Oxide.
