Lab grown diamonds have become more and more popular in recent years. But, what are they, exactly? Synthetic Diamonds are diamonds that are created in a laboratory, as opposed to being mined from the ground. They are identical to natural diamonds in every way, but they are typically more affordable and more environmentally friendly because no mining is involved. Keep reading to learn more about the history of lab grown diamonds, how they are made, why they are so popular, and where you can find the best lab grown diamonds on the market today.
Are Lab Grown Diamonds Real Diamonds?
Most people, when they first hear about lab grown diamonds, wonder if lab grown diamonds are considered “real” diamonds, and the answer is yes! Lab grown diamonds are made of the same material as natural diamonds, which is carbon. They have the same chemical composition, physical properties, and optical properties as natural diamonds. In fact, lab grown diamonds are so identical to natural diamonds that it is impossible to tell them apart with the naked eye. The only way to tell a lab grown diamond from a natural diamond is with specialized equipment, like a microscope.
How Are Lab Grown Diamonds Made?
Lab grown diamonds are made using one of two methods: high pressure, high temperature (HPHT), or chemical vapor deposition (CVD). Both of these methods create stunning, high-quality diamonds.
The HPHT Method
The high pressure, high temperature method was the first method used to create lab grown diamonds, and it involves recreating the same conditions that are present deep inside the earth. A small piece of diamond is placed in a chamber with metal catalysts before being exposed to high pressure and high temperature. This causes the carbon atoms to rearrange themselves and grow into a larger diamond. The HPHT process changes the color of the diamond from a natural brown color to a bright, brilliant, white diamond.
The CVD Method
The CVD method is a newer way of creating lab grown diamonds, and it involves using a plasma torch to heat up a small piece of the diamond until it vaporizes. These plasma gases are what help build the layers of the diamond itself. Once the process is complete and the diamond has cooled down, you are left with a lab grown diamond of stunning quality. In fact, CVD diamonds are often better quality than naturally mined diamonds.
Why Are Lab Grown Diamonds So Popular?
Lab grown diamonds have only been around for a few decades, but they have already become very popular and are gaining more and more popularity over the years. This is because there are numerous benefits of choosing lab grown diamonds over naturally mined diamonds, including:
- Affordability – lab grown diamonds are typically much more affordable than natural diamonds.
- Environmentally Friendly – no mining is involved in the creation of lab grown diamonds.
- Beauty – lab grown diamonds are identical to natural diamonds in every way.
- Quality – lab grown diamonds typically have fewer defects than natural diamonds.
If you’re considering buying a diamond, a lab grown diamond may be the way to go. You can get all the same benefits of a natural diamond at a much more affordable cost and without the negative environmental impact.
What the Diamond Experts Say About Lab Grown Diamonds
The lab grown diamond industry is still relatively new, so there is not a lot of data on how lab grown diamonds will continue to age over time. However, the experts who have studied lab grown diamonds say that they should last just as long as natural diamonds, In fact, because lab grown diamonds are created in such controlled conditions, some experts believe they might actually be more durable than natural diamonds.
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If you’re looking a stunning diamond for your sweetheart, Rare Carat is the best place to start your search. We are America’s #1 ring marketplace, and we’ll help you do all of your diamond comparison shopping to find the best lab grown diamond and setting for your special someone. With Rare Carat, you can compare the best lab grown diamonds from trusted jewelers around the country. Start your search today!
