Lab grown diamonds are created with processes that are vastly different from the way nature produces the real deal. Both approaches have their upsides and downsides, but if you want to learn about lab grown diamonds, then first you need to understand how they are produced and why they exist in the first place. For more information on this topic, keep reading to learn all about lab grown diamonds!
The History of Lab Diamonds
Lab-grown diamonds have been around since the 1970s. Contrary to popular belief, these gems were not created to minimize the environmental impact of diamond mining, but rather as a way for jewelers to have more control over their inventory. The first man-made stones were created using a process called chemical vapour deposition (CVD), which creates diamond crystals from carbon atoms in a vacuum chamber.
Today, most lab-grown stones are made using an even newer method called molecular beam epitaxy (MBE), which was invented by GE engineers in 1980. In MBE, machines deposit ultra-thin layers of diamond material onto a flat surface while rotating it under high temperatures until the desired stone shape is achieved.
The Scientific Process of Creating Lab Diamonds
Lab created diamonds are created in a laboratory by simulating the earth’s natural process of forming diamond crystals. This process begins by melting graphite down into a liquid state. The liquid is then subjected to high pressure, which causes it to crystallize into large single-crystal blocks of a diamond. Once this process has taken place, these blocks of the diamond must be separated from the rest of the material that was used for the initial melting point. After this separation process is complete, the blocks of diamonds need to be cut and polished to reach their finished look.
The Pros and Cons of Lab Diamonds
Lab grown diamonds may be a good option for many people. However, consumers should know that these are not the same quality diamond as those mined from the earth. Lab-grown diamonds will have the same chemical composition as mined stones, but since they are grown in a controlled environment with excellent conditions, they may be free of defects than an earth-mined diamond would be. Lab-grown diamonds also lack many of the ethical issues that come along with mining. Because most mined stones come from countries with questionable labor standards or environmental regulations, it is often difficult to know whether or not a mined stone is a blood diamond, which means it came from an African country and funded wars or genocide.
How to Choose Lab Diamonds
When it comes to choosing a diamond for your engagement ring, there are many factors to consider. One of the most important factors is clarity. The gem must be free of imperfections because the tiny inclusions can often grow larger with time and make the diamond look cloudy. Another important factor is colour. There is no perfect colour in a natural diamond, so you need to decide whether you want something very pale or very deep in tone. If you’re looking for an affordable option that still has excellent clarity and colour, then lab grown diamonds may be right for you! Lab grown diamonds were first created in 1954 by Dr Sidney Holloway and were introduced to consumers in 1976 when Lazare Kaplan Diamonds began marketing them as synthetic, which was later changed to lab-grown after the FTC ruled on the definition of synthetic versus real. Lab grown diamonds are created by recreating the same conditions found deep within the earth’s mantle (over 90 miles below the surface) where diamonds form naturally. These include high pressure, high temperature, and lots of carbon dioxide. Diamonds created this way have similar qualities to mined gems , including chemical composition, optical properties (how well they sparkle), weight, cut shape and size – but cost significantly less due to their creation process (i.e., not involving any digging).
When are Lab Diamonds Appropriate for Purchase?
Lab grown diamonds are a great choice for people who want the look of a diamond without the expense or conflict. If you don’t need or want the ‘real deal, lab-grown stones offer an affordable alternative. Lab-grown diamonds are perfect for those who may be allergic to metal, sensitive to temperature changes, or have other similar sensitivities. If you’re not sure whether a stone is natural or not, ask your jeweller – there’s no shame in asking!
