How Are Lab-grown Diamonds Made?

Are lab-grown diamonds the real deal? Are they just a fad? Is it a new way for diamond companies to fish once more for consumers with a superior product that the market just never had before?

Whenever we hear the term “lab-grown,” we typically associate it with something inferior to the natural version. For a long time, consumers were wary of these diamonds since they equated them to cubic zirconia.

Below we’re going to break down how to make lab-grown diamonds. Read on and we’ll explain further!

An Overview of the Lab-Grown Diamond Production Process

Lab-grown diamonds are also referred to as man-made diamonds. They are diamond crystals created artificially in a lab. This is possible by replicating what occurs naturally during the formation of diamonds.

Carbon or a diamond seed is applied to incredibly high temperatures and pressures. Diamonds form when the temperature reaches between 900 and 1300° Celcius. The pressure should also be approximately 1.5 million times the earth’s atmosphere.

Through this process, the carbon molecules link together. This results in a crystal lattice like earth-mined diamonds. These diamonds are then cut, polished, and sometimes also coated to create the finished product.

With advancements in technology, natural vs lab grown diamonds have identical properties. It is almost impossible to see the difference.

The Science and Technology Behind It

Lab-grown diamonds are created through a process called chemical vapor deposition (CVD). This process uses a mixture of gases under pressure and high temperatures. This produces carbon atoms that turn into a solid diamond.

There is another process called high-pressure high-temperature (HPHT). This process involves putting a diamond seed under intense pressure and heat.

From there, the diamond forms naturally. However, it can take several weeks or months to produce the desired outcome.

Man-made diamonds do not contain impurities or inclusions. However, they must still pass the same certification tests to prove their authenticity.

Costs and Benefits of Lab-Grown Diamonds

Creating these man-made diamonds needs significantly less energy than traditional diamond cutting. This results in lower environmental costs.

Due to the lack of need for cutting and polishing, lab-grown diamonds can also be less expensive. Lab-grown diamond manufacturing save costs on mining operations and labor costs. This manufacturing process allows more people to buy diamonds at a fraction of the cost.

Additionally, they are socially and environmentally sustainable. They do not need traditional diamond mining. There is also less harm to the environment and miners.

Ethical Considerations

Companies must consider how these diamonds will impact the natural diamond market. Companies also need to ensure that they are producing ethical and conflict-free diamonds. With careful oversight, they will become a viable alternative to their natural counterparts.

Regulations vary from country to country when it comes to lab-grown diamonds. Many countries have zero laws around it. Others require labeling as such and not misrepresented as mined diamonds.

In general, these diamonds are consumer products. As such, they warrant the same consumer protections as any other kind of goods. Consumers have the right to return goods if they are not as described.

Shop for Lab-Grown Diamonds

Lab-grown diamonds are a unique and eco-friendly option for jewelry lovers. They are crafted by expert technicians in a carefully monitored and controlled process. This ensures high-quality diamonds that are visually identical to mined diamonds.

By shopping for these diamonds instead of mined diamonds, you can reduce your carbon footprint. You can also get high-end jewelry without breaking the bank. 

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