Mined Vs Lab-Grown Diamonds - Everything You Need To Know Before Buying Your Next Diamond
Diamonds are forever, right? Maybe that forever could use a little rethink.
If you are here, you are probably considering investing in diamonds. However, there is a twist. The first question that you should ask before investing is this - Do you want a diamond that is mined from deep in the earth or one that is grown in a lab?
This is a common debate among those interested in diamonds, including diamond lovers, and environmentalists. Be your first diamond jewelry or you are looking to enhance your collection, the question of lab-grown vs mined diamonds is fundamental.
No worries. We are here to help you understand the main differences along with each’s pros and cons. In this guide, we’ll compare lab-grown and mined diamonds to help you decide which is right for you.
Diamonds - Which One Should You Choose?
Since the beginning of time, diamonds have been considered a symbol of love, commitment, and luxury. However, one should not ignore the process behind the development of these diamonds. Not all diamonds are created the same way. While traditional natural diamonds have existed in the market for a longer period, lab-grown diamonds have created their own name in the market owing to their sustainable nature. As a matter of fact, lab-grown diamonds are considered an ethical alternative to traditionally mined diamonds.
Now, let us get into some serious questions:
- What is the difference between lab-grown and natural diamonds?
- Is one diamond really better than the other?
How Are Diamonds Made?
Chemically, there is no difference between lab-grown diamonds and mined diamonds. In fact, both are made of pure carbon. They are also graded by the same standards in terms of the 4Cs - Cut, Clarity, Color, and Carat. However, there is one stark distinction that you cannot ignore while considering the difference between mined and lab-grown diamonds.
Mined Diamonds
Mined Diamonds are formed naturally deep within the Earth’s mantle under extreme heat and pressure. It takes roughly around 1 billion to 3 billion years to complete the process of creating each sparkling diamond. These sparkling gems eventually make their way closer to the surface from where they are mined through volcanic eruptions.
Later on, miners extract them from the earth through large and complex operations. This diamond extraction process involves significant environmental impact. Mining is not an environmentally friendly process. It disrupts ecosystems, leverages extensive energy, and can result in soil erosion.
Lab-Grown Diamonds
Lab-grown diamonds are developed from scratch in high-tech laboratories. Here, scientists replicate the intense pressure and temperature of the Earth’s mantle in which mined diamonds are made. However, the difference lies in the time. These lab-grown diamonds are created in a matter of weeks.
There are two methods through which these diamonds are grown in the laboratory. They are High Pressure, High Temperature (HPHT), and Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) methods. These methods are effective in developing high-quality and real diamonds that are similar to those mined. Meaning they have the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as mined diamonds. They are nowhere fake.
- High Pressure-High Temperature (HPHT): This method recreates the natural process by placing a carbon source under high pressure and high temperature. This forms a diamond crystal.
- Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD): Here, a diamond seed is placed in a chamber filled with carbon-rich gas. The gas is heated, and the carbon atoms attach to the seed, growing the diamond layer by layer.
Differences In Structural & Chemical Properties
One of the greatest misconceptions associated with lab-grown diamonds is that they are somewhat fake. However, it is time to break the myth. They are chemically identical to mined diamonds. Let us show you how the comparison is made.
- Appearance: It is not easy to differentiate between the two diamonds. Even expert gemologists need specialized equipment to tell them apart.
- Hardness: In terms of hardness, both have a ten on the Mohs scale, which is the highest value. They’re incredibly hard and durable.
- Brilliance and Fire: Both mined and lab-grown diamonds have the same sparkle factor. So, you are not missing out on anything in terms of brilliance and fire.
Quality and Aesthetics
Unless you’re a trained gemologist with special equipment, you probably won’t be able to tell a lab-grown diamond from a mined one just by looking at it. Both types of diamonds go through the same grading process. However, gemologists can tell the difference based on growth patterns and trace elements.
The lab-grown diamonds you’ll find in stores are just as beautiful as mined diamonds, and the grading is the same. You still choose your diamond based on the 4Cs (cut, color, clarity, and carat) whether it’s lab-grown or mined.
Price Point
If you are after the look of a high-quality diamond without the hefty price tag, lab-grown diamonds offer significant savings. Mined diamonds are significantly expensive due to the complex and lengthy process involved in mining. Their value further increases owing to traditional market perceptions of rarity and value.
On the other hand, lab-grown diamonds are 20-40% less expensive than mined diamonds of the same size and quality. If budget is a factor, lab-grown diamonds offer a lot more sparkle for your buck.
Why People Love Mined Diamonds?
With diamonds considered a gem that cherishes and celebrates love, there is a lot of allure surrounding mined diamonds. One of the primary reasons is its longevity. Many people are attracted by the idea of possessing a diamond that has been around for billions of years. Yes! Some consider wearing a mined diamond equal to holding a tiny piece of our planet's history.
The perceived value of diamonds has not diminished since its discovery. As a matter of fact, their value has only increased. Mined diamonds are considered precious stones, and their value has been equated with their rarity and uniqueness. Though lab-grown diamonds are easily available in the market, many people still consider mined diamonds the ones with more authentic value.
Also, there is a lot of tradition and prestige wrapped around these mined diamonds. In case someone from your lineage holds these diamonds, you might feel drawn to continue the tradition. These diamonds are often considered a long-term investment. However, remember that diamonds do not generally appreciate over time. When comparing the resale value with lab-grown diamonds, they hold a greater value.
Why Lab-Grown Diamonds Are Impactful?
When mined diamonds had created their own market, then came lab-grown diamonds that have become a game-changer. Through their sustainable and cost-friendly nature, these diamonds have made waves for several good reasons.
Lab-grown diamonds are touted as the “eco-friendly” alternative to mined diamonds. Mining diamonds can be incredibly resource-intensive, while lab-grown diamonds avoid land disruption and the heavy use of water and chemicals.
As they are made in a lab, lab-grown diamonds come with fewer ethical concerns. Mining diamonds, particularly in certain regions, has led to issues like “conflict diamonds,” labor exploitation, and human rights abuses. Lab-grown diamonds sidestep all of that. Lab-grown diamonds are generally 20-40% cheaper than mined diamonds. So if you’re looking for more sparkle without breaking the bank, lab-grown diamonds can be the way to go.
How Diamonds Affect Earth?
The mining industry has historically been linked to concerns like forced labor, unsafe working conditions, and funding of conflicts. This is why mined diamonds are often referred to as blood diamonds. Although there are initiatives like the Kimberley Process to prevent conflict diamonds from entering the market, it’s not a foolproof system.
Mining is a resource-intensive process that leaves a big environmental footprint. It involves deforestation and soil erosion. This often results in the displacement of wildlife. The energy consumption for mining is also massive, with some reports estimating that mined diamonds can require three times more energy than lab-grown diamonds per carat.
With lab-grown diamonds, you can be almost certain of an ethical origin. They’re created in controlled environments, often within developed nations with labor laws, which minimizes the chance of any human rights violations. Lab-grown diamonds generally have a much lower environmental impact. They’re often produced in facilities powered by renewable energy, using fewer natural resources than traditional mining.
Lab-grown diamonds are widely considered conflict-free, which is a huge draw for socially conscious buyers. However, lab-grown diamonds still use energy, especially for the HPHT method, so the eco-friendliness can depend on the production facility.
Debunking Myths About Lab-Grown Diamonds
Let us debunk some of the myths associated with lab-grown diamonds.
Myth #1: All Lab-Grown Diamonds Are Fake
Absolutely not! Lab-grown diamonds are 100% real diamonds. They have identical physical, chemical, and optical properties as mined diamonds.
Myth #2: Lab-Grown Diamonds Are Less Durable
Another myth! Lab-grown diamonds have the same hardness as mined diamonds. Hence, they have the same durability.
Myth #3: Lab-Grown Diamonds Are All the Same
Definitely not! Just like mined diamonds, lab-grown diamonds vary in terms of quality, and they are graded using the same 4Cs.
How To Choose The Right Diamond For You?
Ultimately, the choice between lab-grown and mined diamonds comes down to your personal values, style, and budget. Here are some things to consider:
- If environmental impact and ethical sourcing are high on your priority list, lab-grown diamonds may be a perfect match.
- Lab-grown diamonds let you go for a larger stone or higher quality within your budget.
- Some people just love the idea of a naturally formed, mined diamond and feel it holds more sentimental value.
Wrapping Up
So, should you go for the mined diamond or the lab-grown gem?
Choose a mined diamond if you want something natural, and traditional, and are willing to pay a premium for it. Some people love the romance and rarity associated with mined stones.
Go for a lab-grown diamond if you’re looking for an ethical, eco-friendly option that offers great value for money. Plus, if you’re after a larger diamond at a lower price point, lab-grown diamonds can be an ideal choice.
Whether mined or lab-grown, a diamond is a beautiful and lasting way to celebrate a special occasion. The key is to choose one that resonates with your values and budget. After all, a diamond’s sparkle doesn’t come from where it was made, it comes from what it symbolizes for you!
Lab-grown diamonds have made their mark, and as technology advances, they’re only going to shine brighter. Renaissance Jewel is your trusted diamond partner to buy exquisite lab-grown diamonds.