What’s the Difference Between Lab-Grown and Real Diamonds
The physical and chemical properties of diamonds have intrigued humankind for centuries. However, it was only recently that we have been able to create diamonds in a laboratory. The debate between lab-grown and natural diamonds has been ongoing for years, with no clear winner. Both have unique benefits and drawbacks that make them appealing to different people. So, what's the difference between these two types of diamonds?
What Is a Real Diamond?
Diamonds are formed at high temperatures and pressures deep in the Earth. Diamonds are formed when carbon is exposed to the intense conditions of the Earth's mantle. The carbon is forced to bond tightly, forming the diamond crystals we see in jewellery. Over time, these diamonds are pushed closer to the surface of the Earth through tectonic plate movement. Once the diamonds are close enough to the surface, rivers and streams can wash them away to a new location.
What Is a Lab-Grown Diamond?
Lab-grown diamonds are created using a process called chemical vapour deposition. This process uses a small carbon seed to encourage diamond growth. The carbon seed is placed in a chamber where it is exposed to hydrogen and a small amount of methane. The methane is converted into carbon, which is deposited on the seed to create a diamond. This process can take numerous months or even years to complete, depending on the size of the diamond.
Lab-grown diamonds have the same physical and chemical properties as real diamonds. In fact, it can be difficult to tell the difference between the two without a microscope. However, lab-grown diamonds are much less expensive than their natural counterparts. This is because they can be produced in a controlled environment without the need for mining.
What Are the Advantages of Lab-Grown Diamonds?
The main advantage of lab-grown diamonds is that they are much more affordable than natural diamonds. In fact, they can be up to 30 per cent cheaper than natural diamonds. They are also more environmentally friendly than natural diamonds. This is because they do not require mining, which can have a negative impact on the environment.
Lab-grown diamonds are also less likely to contain impurities than natural diamonds. This is because they are grown in a controlled environment where impurities can be removed more easily. Finally, lab-grown diamonds tend to be harder and stronger than natural diamonds, meaning that they will last longer.
How to Tell the Difference Between a Real Diamond and a Lab-Grown Diamond
The best way to tell the difference between a real diamond and a lab-grown diamond is to take it to a professional. A professional will be able to look at the diamond under a microscope and tell you whether it is a real diamond or a lab-grown diamond.
However, there are some ways that you can tell the difference between a real diamond and a lab-grown diamond without taking it to a professional. One way is to look at the diamond under a microscope. If the diamond has a lot of small inclusions, it is likely to be a lab-grown diamond.
Another way to tell the difference between a real diamond and a lab-grown diamond is to look at the diamond under UV light. If the diamond fluoresces blue, it is likely to be a lab-grown diamond.
Finally, you can also tell the difference between a real diamond and a lab-grown diamond by looking at the price. Lab-grown diamonds are typically much cheaper than natural diamonds.
Final Thoughts
Lab-grown diamonds are a great alternative to natural diamonds. They are environmentally friendly and can save you a lot of money. On top of that, lab-grown diamonds have the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as natural diamonds. They are also just as hard and durable. The only difference is that lab-grown diamonds are created in a controlled environment, using advanced technology.
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