A diamond is a transparent crystal of tetrahedrally bonded carbon atoms. Diamonds are the hardest known natural material and have been prized as gemstones throughout the years. While natural diamonds are formed deep within the Earth under high temperatures and pressures, they can also be created artificially in a laboratory.
If you're wondering which type of diamond you should buy, here is a quick guide that might help you.
What Is a Natural Diamond?
A natural diamond is a diamond formed by nature, not by man-made processes. These diamonds are typically found in kimberlite pipes or alluvial deposits. Natural diamonds have been treasured for centuries and used for various purposes, from jewelry to industrial applications.
Most natural diamonds are not of gem quality but are used for industrial purposes. These diamonds are often referred to as bort or boart. Only a tiny percentage of natural diamonds are of gem quality, and these are the ones that are typically used in jewelry.
What Is a Lab-Created Diamond?
Lab-created diamonds, also known as synthetic or cultivated diamonds, are diamonds produced in a laboratory setting instead of mined from the Earth. They are identical to natural diamonds in terms of their physical and chemical properties but have a significantly lower price tag. Lab-created diamonds are becoming increasingly popular among millennials as they offer an ethical and affordable alternative to mined diamonds.
Creating lab-created diamonds starts with a tiny diamond seed placed in a high-pressure chamber. This chamber is then filled with a carbon-rich gas subjected to high temperatures and pressure. This process causes the carbon atoms to bond together, creating a diamond. The diamond is then cut and polished to create the desired shape and size.
What Are the Factors to Consider When Choosing a Diamond?
1. Value
Natural diamonds are formed millions of years deep within the Earth's crust. They are mined, cut, and polished into the beautiful gemstones we know and love. Because they are created by nature, no two diamonds are exactly alike.
On the other hand, lab-created diamonds are created in a laboratory using cutting-edge technology. While they may not have the same history as natural diamonds, they are chemically and physically identical to their natural counterparts. And because they are created in a controlled environment, they are often more perfect in terms of clarity and colour than natural diamonds.
2. Price
Natural diamonds are created over millions of years, and as such, they are pretty rare. This rarity is reflected in their price, which is significantly higher than that of lab-created diamonds.
On the other hand, lab-created diamonds are created in a matter of weeks in a laboratory setting. This process is much less time-consuming and expensive, so lab-created diamonds are much more affordable.
3. Sustainability
Are natural diamonds more sustainable than lab-created diamonds? The first thing to consider is the environmental impact of diamond mining.
Natural diamonds are mined from the earth, which can be extremely damaging to the environment. The mining process involves digging large holes in the ground, which can disturb the local ecosystem and cause air and water pollution. It also produces large amounts of waste, making it difficult to dispose of safely.
On the other hand, lab-created diamonds are made from a combination of carbon and other elements in a laboratory. This process does not involve mining and is much less damaging to the environment. In addition, the process of creating lab-created diamonds is much more efficient and requires less energy.
Final Thoughts
Both natural diamonds and lab-created diamonds have their unique benefits and drawbacks. Natural diamonds are valued for their rarity and sentimental value, whereas lab-created diamonds offer a more affordable and ethical alternative.
Ultimately, the decision between natural and lab-created diamonds should depend on the individual's unique preferences and needs.
If you’re looking for gem engagement rings, you should consider shopping at Clark and Sons Gems. We offer jewelry made from beautiful gemstones all over the world. Explore and place your order today!
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