As consumers seek alternatives to traditionally man made diamonds Melbourne, lab-grown diamonds have become an increasingly attractive option. Not only are they less expensive and environmentally friendly, but they are also conflict-free.
Lab-grown diamonds are nearly identical to natural diamonds in terms of chemical and structural characteristics. However, there may be slight visual distinctions that can only be determined by an experienced gemmologist.
Colour
Natural lab grown diamonds UK come in a range of colours due to trace elements mixed with carbon during crystallization or exposure to radiation sources. Blue diamond’s get their hue from boron, while yellows and oranges are due to nitrogen or other modifying gases.
However, in a laboratory setting, gases can be removed and replaced with new ones to create an array of colours. These enhancements are known as enhanced diamonds and can be achieved using either HPHT or CVD processes.
Though the colour of both mined and lab-created diamonds may differ, they remain chemically, physically and optically identical. That means they are evaluated by the same grading institutions (GIA, IGI and others) using the same criteria used to evaluate mined diamonds.
Clarity
Diamond clarity is determined by the quantity, size, nature and position of inclusions in a stone. Clarity can affect a diamond’s brilliance and fire as well as its durability and resale value.
The Gemmological Institute of America (GIA) grades diamond clarity using 11 grades from Flawless (F) to Included (I3). Diamonds that show no inclusions when examined under 10X magnification receive the top grade, Flawless.
However, some inclusions, commonly referred to as flaws, can reduce transparency and brilliance. As such, GIA rates diamonds with inclusions on the lower end of their clarity scale (IF and VVS) as less valuable than Flawless diamonds.
Natural diamonds with no or few defects are highly sought-after for their rarity, beauty, and timeless appeal. These gemstones have become highly valued over time due to their exceptional characteristics.
Carat Weight
Carat weight, as the name suggests, is a measurement of a diamond’s physical mass. Factors like density, shape and composition can all influence its weight.
Natural diamonds are mined deep beneath the earth’s surface, where they endure immense pressure and heat for millions of years. This causes the carbon atoms within a diamond to rearrange into crystal structures.
Diamonds are distinguished by the sparkle, fire, and brilliance of their atoms. The size and type of these atoms determine the colour of a stone.
Clarity refers to the absence of inclusions and blemishes in a diamond, including internal characteristics known as inclusions, as well as external ones known as blemishes.
Under 10X magnification, inclusions in a diamond can be seen but are invisible to the naked eye. Clustered inclusions also exist and make it harder to differentiate from an ideal diamond; these are known as birthmarks and give your stone character.
Price
Natural diamonds can be quite costly due to their rarity, and this rarity often increases their value over time.
However, lab-grown diamonds have become significantly cheaper in price due to falling manufacturing costs over time. Prices for these precious gems have become much more accessible than they used to be in the past due to these developments.
When it comes to lab-grown diamonds, size and quality are two major factors that influence cost. A larger diamond with superior qualities will fetch a higher price tag than one smaller with identical qualities.
Conclusion
Natural diamonds and lab-grown diamonds are both made of carbon and share many physical and chemical characteristics. However, there are some key differences between the two types of diamonds. One major difference is the origin of the diamonds. Natural diamonds are formed deep beneath the earth’s surface over millions of years, while lab-grown diamonds are created in a controlled environment using advanced technology. Another difference is in the cost of the diamonds. Natural diamonds are often more expensive due to their rarity, while lab-grown diamonds are generally more affordable. However, both types of diamonds are evaluated using the same criteria, including the 4Cs (Cut, Clarity, Colour, and Carat weight), and can be certified by reputable gemmological laboratories. Ultimately, the choice between natural diamonds and lab-grown diamonds comes down to personal preference and budget.
