LABORATORY GROWN DIAMONDS
What is a Lab Grown Diamond?
A lab grown diamond is a diamond which is created in a laboratory using processes which replicate the same growing conditions of diamonds that are produced in the earth.
There are two major processes used to create a lab grown diamond: High Pressure, High Temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD). Both methods begin with a “seed” which is a diamond slice about as thick as a human hair.
Due to these highly controlled creation processes, lab grown diamonds tend to have a higher quality than mined diamonds.
HPHT Method
A seed is placed amid pure graphite carbon and subjected to extreme temperature and pressure, which replicates the conditions deep within the earth where natural diamonds form. This process forms layers to the diamond over several days.
CVD Method
A diamond seed is placed into a vacuum chamber which is filled with carbon-rich gases and then heated to extreme temperature. Layers of carbon will begin to form around the seed diamond, growing a more substantial one.
Characteristics & Quality
Lab grown diamonds are chemically, physically and optically identical to mined diamonds. Even a Jeweller or Gemmologist cannot tell the difference without specialised testing equipment.
Value for Money
Lab grown diamonds are more affordable than their mined counterparts. You can purchase a larger and higher quality lab grown diamond at a fraction of the cost of a natural diamond.
Eco-Friendly
Lab grown diamonds are created in a controlled environment resulting in less environmental damage as there is no mining involved.
Grading and Certification
Lab diamonds are graded on the same scale of Cut, Clarity, Colour and Carat Weight as natural diamonds. At Class A, we source lab grown diamonds which have been certified by leading diamond laboratories IGI (International Gemological Institute) and GIA (Gemological Institute of America). Lab grown diamonds are laser inscribed on the girdle of the stone with the report number and a reference to being lab grown.
VALUE
It is considered that mined diamonds will hold their value better than lab diamonds because there is a limited supply. Lab grown diamonds can be manufactured in unlimited quantities, so they are not considered rare or as valuable. However, just as mined diamonds have resale value, so do lab grown diamonds, with both having a similar resale value as part of the original sale price.
Most importantly, people do not buy a diamond for its investment value. It is an emotional purchase and that is where its true value lies!
Environmental Impact
The environmental impact of lab grown diamonds compares favourably to mined diamonds, with natural diamond mining known to be responsible for the pollution of water sources and the destruction of natural habitats.
Lab diamonds aren’t without their disadvantages either, with some producers sourcing their energy via fuel-based electricity from the grid. However, it is hoped that soon all producers will move to sustainable energy sources such as hydropower and solar.
