Diamonds are minerals made with pure carbon, the most complex, least compressible, and stiffest material known. They have always been treasured for their beauty and rarity. They are treated as luxurious items, symbolizing enduring love, commitment, and timeless elegance. For years, natural diamonds were the only option for diamond admirers; however, with the advancement of technology, the trends of Lab-grown diamonds have risen. Lab-grown diamonds are chemically and visually identical to natural diamonds but come at a more accessible price without ethical considerations.
Understanding Lab-Grown Diamonds
Lab-grown diamonds are made in highly controlled laboratory environments. They are similar to natural diamonds, chemically and visually, as they are made using the same natural process by which diamonds form deep within the Earth’s crust. Two major methods are used while creating these diamonds: high-pressure, high-temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD). In the HPHT method, a tiny diamond seed is placed under high pressure and extreme heat, mimicking the Earth’s mantle. In CVD, a diamond seed is placed in a carbon-rich gas-filled chamber and then subjected to intense heat—the carbon bonds with the diamond seed, creating a diamond layer by layer.
Lab-grown diamonds have the same physical, chemical, and visual properties as natural diamonds, making them indistinguishable from the naked eye. However, identifying and differentiating them requires specialized equipment.
How Natural Diamonds Are Formed
Natural diamonds form 90-150 miles beneath the Earth’s surface over billions of years under immense heat and pressure. They are geological wonders where carbon atoms bond under extreme pressure to form hard-crystalized minerals. Volcanic eruptions bring diamonds closer to the Earth’s surface, making them rare and difficult to extract. The natural formation process creates value and allure, making them symbols of luxury and rarity.
Natural diamonds evoke a sense of history and are treasured as family heirlooms passed through generations.
Now let us compare the two options on different bases so that you can select the best option for you.
Appearance and Quality
Visually, there is no difference between Lab-grown and Natural diamonds. Both diamonds are in the same range of carat colors, clarities, and cuts. Reputable labs grade both types to determine their authenticity. Lab-grown diamonds, on the other hand, may occasionally show minor differences in trace elements. Even though these differences are invisible to the naked eye, the differences can be noted with specialized machinery.
Choosing the natural or lab-grown diamond will not make much difference based on looks, as they look the same to the naked eye.
Price Comparison
One primary reason consumers choose Lab-grown diamonds over natural diamonds is their affordability. Lab-grown diamonds generally cost 20-40% less than natural diamonds of the same size and quality. The lower price is possible because of the shorter production time and easy resource access. Natural diamonds cost more due to their rarity and the extensive mining process.
Lab-grown diamonds would be better if you’re working under a budget and still want high-quality diamonds. If you aim to buy or invest in a valuable asset that will also hold value over time, a natural diamond can be your option.
Resale Value and Long-Term Investment
Apart from the extreme emotional value a diamond holds, many buyers consider the long-term value associated to it while purchasing. Generally, natural diamonds hold their long-term value over time and have a higher resale potential. This is because of their rarity, which is appreciated in the geographical history. Lab-grown diamonds tend to have a lower resale value than natural diamonds and depreciate faster as technology advancement and higher production occur.
Buyers looking to buy diamonds as a financial investment prefer natural diamonds with a higher long-term value. However, if you intend to hold the diamond briefly and the primary purpose of buying is to experience its aesthetics and luxury, then Lab-grown diamonds are a good choice.
The Symbolic and Emotional Aspects
For some, any form of diamond is a diamond. Natural diamonds carry an emotional aura. They are often part of the family heirloom, passed over from generation to generation. Since natural diamonds’ value doesn’t depreciate over time, they are passed to different generations, enhancing their sentimental value. Natural diamonds are also often used in engagement rings and other souvenir items, which makes them more appealing.
This doesn’t mean that lab-grown diamonds are meaningless. They also hold sentimental and emotional meaning, especially for those who prioritize environmental sustainability and prefer a budgeted option. Some people glorify the use of lab-grown diamonds, representing the conscious and ethical choice of diamonds.
The choice between natural and lab-grown diamonds depends on personal preferences, values, and priorities. Natural diamonds are rare and have lasting value, ideal for those seeking timeless luxury and emotional connection. On the other hand, lab-grown diamonds are affordable and sustainable. Whether you seek timeless luxury or a modern, sustainable option, the choice is yours. Explore Aurum Orbit’s collection of exquisite diamonds and find the perfect piece that resonates with your style and values.
