Lab-grown diamonds have dramatically altered the jewelry industry in recent years. These diamonds, produced in a lab using high-pressure, high-temperature technology, are identical in structure to natural diamonds. This article provides expert advice from Sol Diamonds on how to choose quality lab-grown diamonds. Let’s break it down into steps.
Understand the Process
Understanding the process of creating lab-grown diamonds helps you appreciate their intricacies and gives you a starting point when selecting a diamond. These diamonds are not ‘fake’; they are ‘real’ diamonds, created using scientific methods. Essentially, they are carbon atoms arranged in a diamond crystal structure, the same as mined diamonds.
Know What You Want
Before you start shopping, decide what’s most important to you in a diamond. Is it the size, or the color, or perhaps the clarity? Knowing what you want in these three areas will help guide your search.
Size
Lab-grown diamonds are available in a wide range of sizes, from very small to several carats. Larger diamonds are more rare, so they can be more expensive, but they are also more striking.
Color
Lab-grown diamonds are available in a variety of colors, from colorless to fancy colors. Choose a color based on personal preference and the style of the jewel you’re looking to craft.
Clarity
All diamonds, whether mined or lab-grown, have inclusions and blemishes. Lower clarity grades have more inclusions and blemishes, while higher grades have less.
Shop with Reliable Jewelers
Just as with natural diamonds, you should only buy lab-grown diamonds from a reliable source. Sol Diamonds is renowned for its integrity, offering only the highest quality lab-grown diamonds.
The 4C’s Still Apply
The principles of the 4C’s – color, cut, clarity, and carat weight – still apply to lab-grown diamonds. This globally accepted standard provides a way to objectively compare and evaluate diamonds.
Ask for the Diamond’s Grading Report
A grading report should always accompany a diamond, either lab-grown or natural. This report gives detailed information about the diamond’s 4C’s and confirms its origin.
FAQ’s
Are lab-grown diamonds real diamonds?
Yes, lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds, and their chemical and physical properties are identical to those of mined diamonds.
Are lab-grown diamonds cheaper?
Yes, lab-grown diamonds are generally 20%-30% cheaper than mined diamonds. This is due to the lower production costs.
Can you tell the difference between lab-grown and natural diamond?
No, it’s impossible for the naked eye to tell the difference between lab-grown and natural diamonds due to their identical properties.
Conclusion
Choosing a lab-grown diamond doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s all about understanding what you want, knowing the diamond’s origin, and shopping with trustworthy jewelers, such as Sol Diamonds. With these tips, the process will surely be a smooth and rewarding one.