Guilt-free diamonds, or lab-grown diamonds, to be exact, have been a relatively recent scientific discovery that has been taking over the diamond industry by storm. However, due to its recent rise in popularity, many diamond lovers in Singapore have been wondering whether these diamonds live up to the standards. Most importantly, can they replace their beloved classic diamond ring?

In this article, we will be discussing the most frequently asked questions about lab-created diamonds.

Are lab-grown diamonds real diamonds?

Yes, lab-grown diamonds are indeed real diamonds. Scientists are essentially mimicking the natural growing process in a controlled environment to produce crystallised carbon, also known as diamonds. Lab-grown diamonds are physically, chemically, and optically identical to earth-mined diamonds. Additionally, they are also indistinguishable from these mined diamonds.

How are lab-grown diamonds made?

There are 2 chemical processes used to grow lab-grown diamonds, namely:

1. High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT)

2. Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD)

While both procedures can produce gem-quality diamonds with differing growth patterns, the CVD approach offers greater control. As it uses less energy, this procedure creates diamonds that are more competitively priced. Furthermore, the method’s capacity to eliminate or contain minimal levels of nitrogen results in rough diamonds with higher-grade colours, which are frequently Type II A pure diamonds — the top 2% of all diamonds in the world (essentially the world’s most pristine diamond).

On the other hand, HPHT diamonds may or may not be Type II A diamonds. Hence, if you are looking to purchase jewellery online or in-store, consider opting for CVD lab-grown diamonds instead!

Are lab-grown diamonds cheaper than earth-mined diamonds?

In comparison with earth-mined diamonds, lab-grown diamonds are typically 40% lower priced. Depending on the type of diamond and cut you are looking to get for your engagement ring, rest assured that the lab-grown diamonds you choose for your significant other are competitively priced, making them a value for money that can spare you from burning a hole in your wallet when picking the perfect ring for whatever the occasion.

What are the benefits of buying a lab-grown diamond?

Other than the fact that you can purchase diamonds twice as big with the same investment, there are many other benefits to buying lab-grown diamonds.

Some of these benefits include:

– Sustainable and environmentally friendly

Diamond mining has the potential to cause significant environmental damage. Natural diamond mining consumes enormous amounts of fossil fuel; however, lab-created diamonds have none of these drawbacks. In reality, as the demand for diamonds grows and mined diamonds’ supply diminishes, switching from mining to growing diamonds is a significantly more sustainable option.

Diamonds grown in a lab do minimal to no environmental impact and are also more inexpensive. As a result, it is clear that lab-grown diamonds are a superior alternative for individuals concerned – this includes the customer, supplier, manufacturer, and most importantly, the earth.

– Pure diamonds with better quality

Synthetic diamonds are considered purer than mined diamonds as they do not have any impurities or dirt entrenched in them. Due to the controlled environmental conditions that they are in during the growing process, these lab-created diamonds have fewer flaws and exhibit less evidence of strain in their crystal structure. The diamond will be whiter, better, and brighter as its purity improves.

– Coloured diamonds

Those seeking coloured diamonds can now obtain them owing to technology, which allows lab-grown coloured diamonds to be purchased for a fraction of the price of mined diamonds – which are more expensive due to their rarity value. What’s more, lab-grown coloured diamonds are more perfect and brighter than natural-coloured stones: pure, easier to detect, and consistent in colour.

How are lab-grown diamonds certified in Singapore?

As they are real diamonds, lab-grown diamonds are certified with the same criteria as mined diamonds. After being grown in the lab, they are reviewed by independent gemological bodies who then produce a report of the diamond’s cut, clarity, carat, and colour (4Cs). IGI is one of the best certifications for lab-grown diamonds in Singapore as their specific gradings for the diamonds’ clarity and cut are renowned.