Introduction
Lab-grown diamonds possess identical optics, chemical composition, and physical properties to their mined counterparts. Yet misinformation still shrouds these sustainable man-made gems. Outdated notions about lab diamond quality, availability, and acceptance persist.To dissect these myths and present a factual perspective, delve into our feature Lab Diamonds vs. Earth-Mined Gems,which juxtaposes these two types of gems revealing the subtleties and truths behind each.
It’s time to shatter those stubborn myths! This article tackles some misconceptions, providing clarity into the world of lab-created diamonds. Understanding the truths behind these revolutionary gems allows you to embrace their brilliance free from fiction-based barriers.
Misconception #1: Lab-Grown Diamonds Are Easy or Fast to Produce
A tenacious urban legend suggests scientists easily cook up lab diamonds overnight. In reality, growing gem-quality diamonds requires remarkable technological prowess honed over decades. Production facilities cost hundreds of millions to construct with precision equipment.
Two methods exist for growing diamonds – High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD). Both simulate conditions found deep underground where natural diamonds form. Pressures up to 1.5 million pounds per square inch and temperatures over 2,552°F liquefy carbon into diamond crystals.
But establishing these extreme environments alone cannot grow flawless gems. Carefully regulating equipment and processes over weeks or months enables the crystallization of diamonds with clarity, color, and cut rivaling natural stones. Lab diamond producers are master gunsmiths on the atomic level.
Misconception #2: Lab Diamonds Don’t Last as Long as Natural Diamonds
Some falsely assume lab-grown diamonds lack the resilience of their earthen cousins. After all, technology created them, so might they not withstand time’s test?
Rest assured, the diamond essence formed by either nature or lab equipment is fundamentally identical. Both origins produce diamonds rating 10 on the Mohs hardness scale. Their carbon crystal lattice structure makes lab diamonds just as impervious to scratching, chipping, or breaking as mined diamonds.
No matter how intricately cut or frequently worn, a quality lab diamond will sparkle with enduring radiance through generations, thanks to its innate hardness. In terms of diamond toughness, there is no difference. But to ensure that your diamond ring remains as brilliant as the day you first wore it, it's essential to follow some care and maintenance guidelines detailed in our guide, How to Care for and Maintain the Brilliance of a Diamond Ring.
Misconception #3: All Lab-Grown Diamonds Are Flawless
Another common myth declares every lab diamond emerges perfectly pristine. In truth, while their controlled growth environment minimizes flaws, lab diamonds can still exhibit minor inclusions or blemishes.
Tiny irregularities within the crystal lattice occasionally form, akin to those found in natural diamonds. Surface nicks and cracks can also occur during the cutting and polishing process. However, imperfections remain scarce in lab diamonds and are typically invisible to the unaided eye.
Seeking flawless shine? You can opt for higher clarity lab diamonds graded VVS or IF by gemological institutes. With ethical origins assured, lab diamonds offer affordable access to breathtaking perfection free of conspicuous flaws.
Misconception #4: Lab Diamonds Come in Limited Shapes and Sizes
Early days of lab diamond production yielded smaller stones, fueling perceptions that size options are restricted. Quite the contrary - today’s advanced manufacturing technologies allow the creation of lab diamonds across a wide spectrum of carat weights.
Gorgeous lab diamonds are grown in sizes ranging from 0.25 carats to over 5 carats For example, the BRILLISTAR Radiance lab-grown diamond Eternity Ring eternity band reaches 4.2 carats for stunning center stones. For accent stones, melee lab diamonds down to 0.001 carats are readily available. The same preferred diamond cuts found in mined diamonds, like round brilliants, cushions, radiants, emeralds, and more, are equally achievable with lab-grown gems.
Limits on dimensions and shapes are now almost erased. Lab diamonds provide access to spectacular stones in virtually any carat size and cut.
Misconception #5: Lab Diamonds Aren’t Accepted as Real by the Industry
Perhaps the greatest falsehood suggests the diamond industry shuns lab-grown diamonds as inferior or synthetic imitations. Once true decades ago, today’s lab diamonds now enjoy growing acceptance among jewelers and gemological authorities.
The International Grown Diamond Association was formed to establish manufacturing and grading standards for lab diamonds. Leading gemological institutes like GIA and AGS offer lab diamond certification.
Ultimately, beauty and quality matter more than origins to many jewelers and consumers. The tides keep turning in favor of lab diamonds as a bonafide ethical alternative for sustainable luxury.
Conclusion
The world of lab-grown diamonds continues evolving and expanding possibilities. By separating fact from fiction, you can see these stones clearly for the revolutionary gems they are. So, let’s embrace the opportunity to choose dazzling lab diamond creations and help write the next chapter in their astonishing story.
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