Diamonds are a symbol of love, luxury, and prestige. The demand for engagement rings has led to an increasing interest in lab-grown diamonds as an alternative to natural ones. Lab-grown diamonds, also known as synthetic ones, are created in a laboratory setting using advanced technology that simulates the natural process of its formation.
They have the same chemical composition and crystal structure as natural ones, but are created in weeks rather than millions of years. In this blog post, we will debunk the popular myths surrounding them and determine whether they can pass diamond tests.
Popular Myths Surrounding Lab-Grown Diamonds
Myth 1: Lab-grown diamonds are not real ones
This myth stems from the belief that only natural diamonds are considered “real.” However, lab-grown ones have the same physical and chemical properties as natural ones. The only difference is their origin. They are created in a controlled environment, while natural ones are formed deep beneath the earth’s surface. Both types have the same hardness, durability, and brilliance, making them indistinguishable to the naked eye.
Myth 2: They have a different appearance
This myth is also false. They have the same visual characteristics as natural ones. They have the same sparkle, fire, and scintillation. In fact, many experts cannot distinguish between these two rivals without specialized equipment. Lab grown diamond engagement rings UK are becoming increasingly popular as consumers become more aware of their benefits and affordability.
Myth 3: They cannot pass diamond tests
This myth is perhaps the most persistent. Many people believe that they cannot pass tests such as the diamond tester, which measures thermal conductivity, or the UV lamp test, which identifies fluorescence. However, they have the same physical and chemical properties as natural ones, so they will react the same way to these tests.
Explanation of Diamond Testing Methods
Diamond testers work by measuring its thermal conductivity. Natural diamonds have a higher thermal conductivity than most other materials, while lab-grown ones have a slightly lower thermal conductivity. UV lamps are used to identify fluorescence, which is the emission of light when a diamond is exposed to ultraviolet light. Some of them fluoresce, while others do not. This property is not an indicator of its quality or value.
Results of Lab-Grown Diamond Tests
Several studies have been conducted to determine whether lab-grown diamonds can pass these tests. One such study was conducted by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), the leading authority on diamond grading and testing. The GIA tested a sample of lab-grown pieces and found that they could not be distinguished from natural ones using standard testing methods.
Comparison of Lab-Grown and Natural Diamond Test Results
After conducting various tests on both lab-grown and natural diamonds, it is clear that they are nearly identical in terms of their physical and chemical properties. In fact, lab-grown ones often have fewer inclusions and impurities than natural ones, which can make them appear more brilliant and desirable to some consumers.
One notable difference between the two is that lab-grown ones may have a slightly different crystal structure than natural ones. This can be detected using specialized equipment, but it is not visible to the naked eye and does not affect its overall appearance or durability.
When it comes to testing whether a diamond is natural or lab-grown, the most commonly used method is the DiamondView tester, which uses UV light to identify its origin. This method works because natural diamonds have certain fluorescent properties that lab-grown ones do not, allowing them to be distinguished from one another.
Another commonly used test is the Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, which measures the infrared light absorbed by the diamond. Both natural and lab-grown ones have slightly different infrared spectra due to the presence of different impurities, which can help identify its origin.
Benefits of Choosing Lab-Grown Diamond Engagement Rings
When it comes to buying an engagement ring, the decision can be overwhelming. With lab-grown diamonds becoming increasingly popular, it’s worth considering the benefits of choosing this type of engagement ring.
First and foremost, they are more affordable than natural ones. According to the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), the price of a one-carat lab-grown diamond can be up to 40% less than a natural one of the same size and quality. This is because they do not require the same extensive mining and production processes as natural ones, which can be expensive and time-consuming.
In addition to being more affordable, they are also more ethical and environmentally friendly. The mining of natural diamonds has been associated with human rights abuses, environmental destruction, and funding of conflict, known as blood diamonds. By choosing a lab-grown diamond, you can rest assured that your purchase has not contributed to any of these issues.
Future Implications of Lab-Grown Diamond Technology
As lab-grown diamond technology continues to advance, it is likely that we will see more and more lab-grown diamonds on the market. This could have a significant impact on the industry, as consumers may begin to view them as a more ethical and sustainable alternative to natural ones.
In addition, their availability could lead to greater affordability and accessibility, making diamond jewelry more accessible to a wider range of consumers. This is particularly true for lab grown diamond engagement rings jewelry stores, where couples can get the same sparkle and luxury for a lower price.
However, it is important to note that the growth of this industry could also have implications for countries that rely heavily on mining for their economies. It remains to be seen how the industry will adapt to their increasing popularity and what impact this will have on global mining practices.
To Sum Things Up
In summary, lab-grown diamonds are a real and legitimate alternative to natural ones. They have the same chemical, physical, and optical properties as natural ones and can be identified using specialized testing methods. As lab-grown diamond technology continues to evolve, it is likely that we will see more lab-grown pieces on the market, which could have significant implications for the diamond industry and beyond.
