Guilt-Free Jewellery: 5 Facts About Lab-Grown Diamonds
For more than a century, numerous experiments have been conducted to explore the technology for growing diamonds. However, it has only been in the past decade that the diamond industry was able to fine-tune the science and art of producing premium-quality, gem-like lab-grown diamonds in modern-day labs. Today, an increasing number of millennials are seen purchasing lab-created diamond jewellery over those naturally mined ones - from classic diamond rings to sparkly bracelets.
Despite their growing popularity, it is likely that some individuals or companies are still unaware of the existence of lab-grown diamonds; although they might be aware, there are still a few who know so little about this diamond type. Perhaps the primary reason for such a lack of information on the consumers is that facts about lab-created diamonds are not typically well-known, and there are only a few reliable sources providing the necessary information.
To help you learn more, we share 5 of the most astonishing facts about lab-made diamonds, along with reasons why you should consider them when buying your next piece of jewellery!
1. Lab-created diamonds are real diamonds
Many individuals might think that lab-grown diamonds are not genuine since they are created in labs. However, contrary to widespread assumption, lab-made diamonds are real and perceived as identical to their natural counterparts in almost every way! Like earth-mined diamonds, diamonds produced in labs are made up of 100% crystallised carbon - they are neither synthetic nor a mere imitation of the natural ones. Hence, if you are thinking hard on whether you should pop the big question with a lab-grown diamond, we’d say a resounding yes!
2. There is no significant distinction between lab-grown and earth-mined diamonds
Source: https://www.bbc.co.uk/newsround/54734306
As mentioned, lab-grown and earth-mined diamonds are similar in multiple ways, except that the former is developed in a lab from a diamond seed rather than being pulled from the earth. That said, both are pure carbon and have the exact same physical properties. In fact, it is impossible for anyone to tell the difference between a lab-created diamond and a mined one by eye since both are chemically, physically, and optically the same.
3. Diamonds made in labs are considerably less than their earth diamond counterparts
Earth-mined diamonds are relatively on the higher end in terms of price because many of their miners and jewellers continue to propagate the lie that the high costs of earth-mined diamonds are due to their scarcity. The truth is, the earth is considered very abundant when it comes to diamonds; ultimately, it is the costly processes of mining, processing, and logistics that make the final price tag steep.
Growing diamonds in labs cuts a good deal of unnecessary expenses, so they typically cost about 20% to 40% less than the earth-mined ones. Even though lab-grown diamonds are the same as their natural diamond equivalents, they come with a considerably lower price point that makes them attractive to the younger generation. It is said that around 70% of millennials would consider buying lab-created diamond jewellery.
4. Lab-grown diamonds are eco-friendly
Source: https://thehoneycombers.com/singapore/sustainable-living-singapore/
As with any type of mining operation, diamond mining has significant impacts on the environment. To extract diamonds from the earth, enormous amounts of earth are removed, and significant quantities of energy are used by diamond mining companies.
Since lab diamonds are usually created using renewable energy, they do not deplete natural resources. Hence, aside from being high-quality and affordable, lab-grown diamonds are also eco-friendly and the choice to pick, especially if you are a world-loving, environment-caring couple! By opting for lab-grown diamonds, you are directly contributing to the reduction of the harmful effects of diamond mining on the environment.
5. Lab-made diamonds are unquestionably conflict-free
The earth mined diamond industry has been infamous for its questionable tactics of keeping conflict or blood diamonds in circulation. Blood diamonds are those that exploit workers as well as children and contribute to the funding of war and terrorism. They are usually unlawfully traded to fund conflicts in war-torn areas, such as central and western Africa.
Compared to earth-mined diamonds, lab-grown diamonds are undoubtedly free from any hint of exploitation or illegal funding. As these diamonds are created in labs, there is undoubtedly no dispute about their origin. As such, if you do not wish to contribute to the illegal trade of blood diamonds around the world, it would be best to stick to lab-made diamonds.
Conclusion
There are innumerable interesting facts about lab-grown diamonds that the majority of consumers and even companies might still be unaware of. Essentially, if you are looking for diamond rings or diamond bracelets in Singapore that are highly valuable but are eco-friendly and conflict-free, those with lab-created diamonds are what you should ideally purchase.
At Love & Co. Singapore, we offer exclusive pieces of jewellery online that incorporate enchanting and precious lab-made diamonds, such as stunning diamond rings with Type II A lab-grown diamonds masterfully cut by our seasoned craftsmen. The ideal engagement ring to give to your beloved on a perfect proposal day, book an in-store consultation with us and have peace of mind as we help you choose the right lab-grown diamond rings for you and your significant other!
