Diamonds are a glittering reminder of the finest the planet has to offer. Their incredible luster and classy symbolism have held strong for thousands of years. 

Enter the lab-grown diamond.

Over the years justified concerns have grown over the ethical consumption of diamonds. From disastrous working conditions to environmental sustainability, the diamond industry is facing down a new age. The up trend of lab-grown diamonds is showing a perspective shift that is guaranteed to translate into a better future for everyone.

Let’s look at lab-grown diamonds, how they work, and why they’re becoming the go-to choice for fashionistas today.

Current Issues Facing the Diamond Industry

What makes diamonds such a problematic commodity? This fact has something to do with their inherently rare nature. Diamonds are hard to find and even harder to mine.

Recent statistics have found the global diamond industry shrinking in revenue by nearly $11 billion. Experts believe this trend will continue due to the reduced interest in diamonds, how they’re made, and their exorbitantly high prices. While there is still a solid market for diamond necklaces and diamond rings, a few changes will make themselves known.

Today’s fashionistas want to know their gorgeous looks are made ethically and sustainably. Lab-grown diamonds are slated to offer these benefits in spades without losing the visual and romantic appeal of the stone.

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How are Traditional Diamonds Found?

Is it any wonder why diamonds have earned their reputation as one of the most potent materials? Diamonds are made out of dense carbon and are usually found deep within the earth, pressed hot into a stunning result. 

The leading countries of diamond products include Russia and South Africa, though these stones are also found in Brazil, China, and Canada. Mining for diamonds is a famously tricky process for a few reasons. Most diamonds are found in volcanic caves, which are dark and hard to navigate. Other types of diamonds are sometimes found in riverbeds or lakes. 

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How are Lab-Grown Diamonds Made?

More and more people today are discouraged by the traditional methods of mining diamonds. Lab-grown diamonds are a solution that makes everyone happy in the long run.

The power of science is unparalleled. With the aid of experienced scientists and geologists, we now can craft diamonds from the comfort of a small lab room. Lab-grown diamonds (also known as cultured diamonds or engineered diamonds) are made using the following methods.

Manipulating Carbon Atoms

As stated above, diamonds are made out of highly dense carbon pushed together by nature’s mysterious forces. Lab settings are able to take carbon atoms and rearrange them to encourage a diamond to grow.

Intense Pressure and Very High Temperatures

Volcanos have a new contender! Lab-grown diamonds combine intense pressure and very high temperatures to craft diamonds. This is highly sensitive work that should only be done by a trained professional.

Chemical Vapor Process

This step is a crucial part of getting the diamond to take shape. There’s even research that chemical vapor is responsible for how rocks form in space!

The best jewelry for your closet is one that speaks to your personality and ideals. We’re proud to provide customizable charms, necklaces, and anklets for your next great look.

The Difference Between Natural Diamonds and Lab-Grown

It’s extremely difficult to tell the difference between natural and lab-grown diamonds. In fact, most people will think they’re the same!

Natural diamonds and lab-grown diamonds bear the exact same sheen, shape, and twinkling purity. They both make fantastic additions to an engagement ring set or your next fashion experiment. Lab-grown diamonds are generally a little more affordable, which makes them very appealing to the budget-conscious.

The only people who will be able to detect a difference are scientists with access to certain forms of technology. Lab-grown diamonds will have slight differences in their structure only detectable to a microscope and a trained eye.

The Enduring Symbolism of Diamonds

Diamonds may be losing appeal in a few areas of life, but they remain a go-to option for weddings, engagements, and special events.

The complex structure and beautiful appearance of the diamonds have inspired humanity for thousands of years. Diamonds have been used in ancient monarchies and early societies. Popular reasons for gathering diamonds range from mystical health benefits to status symbols.

When you purchase a lab-grown diamond, you’re still honoring the history and artistry of the gemstone.

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BENEFITS OF LAB-GROWN DIAMONDS

There are plenty of reasons why people opt for lab-grown diamonds rather than traditional diamonds. Whether you're getting ready to propose, buying a lovely gift, or even want something nice for yourself, a lab-grown diamond could be the way to go. Here are some benefits (and reasons) to opting for lab-grown diamonds rather than their traditional counterparts.

THEY’RE MORE AFFORDABLE

Unfortunately, traditional diamond jewelry can be costly. Even a small diamond can cost you several hundred dollars. But one great way around this is the lab-grown diamond. One of the biggest reasons this has grown in popularity is the massive price difference. Did you know that you can save 40% or more if you choose a lab-grown diamond? This means you'll be able to afford a large diamond or even something higher in quality. This can be perfect if you're looking to buy a ring, especially an engagement ring.

LAB-GROWN DIAMONDS ARE HIGH QUALITY

Whenever you're looking for high-quality jewelry, one of the aspects that need to be paid close attention to would have to be the gemstone. Diamonds can vary in quality. Even natural diamonds will have their impurities, such as dirt being ingrained inside the diamond itself. Since lab-grown diamonds are created in a controlled environment, they will have significantly fewer defects. 

The lab-grown diamonds can even end up looking bright and white compared to diamonds that were mined. Plus, no matter what cut you’re after, such as Old European cut, it’s still possible to get this through a lab-grown diamond.

LAB-GROWN DIAMONDS ARE ETHICAL

Consumers are becoming far more conscious of their purchases. One aspect that customers are looking into now more than ever would be to purchase cruelty-free items. From the clothes, they wear, what they eat, and materials, even right down to the accessories they use. For example, purchasing a diamond may not immediately consider the past.

Child diamond miners used to be more prominent, and there are still questions of ethics today about diamond mining. With that in mind, lab-grown diamonds will not have the same story attached. There is no possibility whatsoever that an underpaid miner mined this out. Instead, these were made by a scientist in a lab using cutting-edge technology. This alone can make a lab-grown diamond worth it.

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THEY ARE REAL DIAMONDS

While there is debate on lab-grown diamonds, these are still natural diamonds. Sure, some diamond experts and even jewelers may look down on this new way to create diamonds, but this is still the real deal. Lab-grown diamonds should not be confused with diamond simulants such as moissanite or cubic zirconia. They are honest and can withstand wear and tear like a traditional diamond.

LAB-GROWN DIAMONDS ARE ECO-FRIENDLY

Just as consumers are working on choosing more ethical brands and products, the same can be said about looking for more environmentally options. For example, diamond mines are known for posing a humanitarian problem, but did you know about their environmental consequences too? Many machinery use fossil fuels to dig large holes in the diamond mines. 

Unfortunately, it means that the animals and plants must be sacrificed because of a mine. While it's true that machinery is used to create a lab-grown diamond, these are commonly created using renewable energy sources. Thus, a diamond is created, less energy is used, and no animals or plants have to be harmed.

Final thoughts

The up trend of lab-grown diamonds is only going to get bigger from here. These carefully crafted beauties are more sustainable and ethical than their natural counterparts.

Lab-grown diamonds are visually indistinguishable from a natural diamond, bearing the same cuts, shine, and color. Only a trained scientist will be able to tell the difference between the two. Lab-grown diamonds also deliver a smarter price point, making them more accessible to everyday buyers.

Give your closet a stunning accessory for the new year. Contact us today to learn more about our handcrafted necklaces, bracelets, and rings.