There are a lot of questions to consider when it comes to buying a diamond. Amidst the questions of size, cut, or clarity, have you ever considered choosing between a lab-grown versus mined diamond? 

What is a lab-grown diamond?

            If not familiar, a lab-grown diamond is a diamond grown inside of a laboratory. Mined diamonds are formed through the combination of extreme pressure and heat and then brought to the surface by volcanic eruptions. Until recently, this natural phenomenon was one-of-a-kind, but as technology has advanced, we can now recreate this process in a highly controlled environment. Lab-grown diamonds are made through two efficient methods – High pressure-high temperature and Chemical Vapor Deposition. 

            Like what happens 100 miles underneath the Earth, lab diamonds also bond carbon to carbon, eventually creating a sparkly diamond. And just like Earth-made diamonds, they can have unique characteristics, including size, color, or clarity. The only difference between the two diamonds is their origin (laboratory versus the Earth) and how long they take to make (millions of years versus a few weeks)!

The difference between lab-grown, moissanite, and cubic zirconia

            Not to be confused with gems such as the moissanite or cubic zirconia, lab-grown diamonds are 100% genuine diamonds. The cubic zirconia is a colorless synthetic gemstone often used to mimic that of a diamond. They are easily spotted when held underneath a light. Cubic zirconia reflects light at a much lower rate, so their stunning sparkle is just not comparable to that of a diamond. They are known to reflect a rainbow of light as opposed to white light (aka brilliance). The same goes for Moissanite: a laboratory-created gemstone with an entirely different genetic makeup to that of a diamond. Moissanite is known for their “disco-ball” effect as they also emit a rainbow of color as opposed to a diamond’s white light. While they are categorized as being colorless, they tend to have a yellow or gray hue to them, which becomes more noticeable with size. These two diamond substitutes have their pros and cons, but they have no relation to a diamond.  

            That is not the case with lab-grown diamonds. Lab-grown diamonds are found to be identical to mined diamonds in every single way. They share the same chemical composition, light refraction, hardness, and density, to name a few elements. One of the only ways to tell the difference between a lab-grown and mined diamond is a tiny inscription number placed onto lab-grown diamonds. The untrained and even trained eye can’t notice a difference (because there aren’t any). They are also graded and certified using the same process as a mined diamond.

            Given the efficiency of technology, these lab-grown diamonds cut the cost, time, and equipment to be the dazzling stones we love today. Mined diamonds, on the other hand, have a tremendous impact on the environment. Mining requires extensive machinery that erodes soil, ruins forests, and overall causes devastating ecological destruction. You can have peace of mind with lab-grown diamonds knowing they have a minimal environmental impact and are not involved with humanitarian or ethical concerns. 

            Since it requires less to grow diamonds rather than mine them from the Earth, they are often more affordable. You can purchase a larger diamond of higher quality when investing in lab-grown diamonds.

As you narrow down the requirements of what you are looking for out of a diamond, consider adding lab-grown to your list. Lab-grown diamonds will give the same brilliant shine and sparkle you imagine when you think of your engagement ring or diamond jewelry. You can own an authentic diamond for less that helps the environment and your wallet. How could you say no to that? 

Magnificent lab-grown diamond jewelry at Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers

You can find beautiful lab-grown and mined diamonds right here at Leo Hamel Fine Jewelers. We offer a tremendous selection of dazzling diamond jewelry for every taste and budget. Whether you’re preparing to pop the question or simply want to spoil yourself, you’re sure to find exactly what you’re looking for at Leo Hamel’s!

Call us today: 619-299-1500