As Lab-grown diamonds are becoming increasingly popular, the term simulant diamonds are also being used. This use of the term diamond simulant is designed to confuse the consumer. Asking the right questions can save you a lot of time and frustration. There is an abundance of misleading information about the differences between the two. It must be said clearly and decisively that lab-created diamonds and diamond simulants are not the same. Diamantaire Imports is dedicated to helping consumers sort through any confusion and better understand what might be your options available, we’ve created a complete guide to understanding the difference between lab diamonds and diamond simulants.
Natural or "mined" diamonds are a naturally occurring mineral made from pure carbon which produces a crystal. This process occurs over a long duration of time underneath the crust of the earth where high temperatures and pressures are found. Diamonds have had many practical uses over time from using to make sharp tools as well as jewelry. This is because the chemical composition of diamonds is tolerant to heat and pressure, as well as being scratch resistant; an ideal use in industrial tool making. Furthermore, it is one of the hardest minerals to naturally occur making it ideal for engagement rings, earrings, and jewelry longevity in general.
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Rough Lab Grown Diamonds are manufactured in a laboratory. This piece of diamond material was grown on a tray.[/caption]
The use of the term "diamond simulant" is purposely confusing for the consumer. For example, a diamond simulant is a synthetic gemstone created in a lab to appear like diamonds. However, they are not chemically the same as a diamond. There are a variety of simulated diamonds, the most popular being cubic zirconias and moissanites. These simulants vaguely appear like a diamond to the untrained eye; to the trained eye, it would be obvious that they are not real diamonds. This is because diamond simulants do not share the same chemical composition as diamonds and are hard to replicate.
A lab-created diamond is chemically and molecularly almost identical to a natural diamond. Lab-created diamonds are grown from the carbon diamond minerals of natural diamonds. They look identical to mined diamonds as well as contain the same physical properties as mined diamonds. These lab-created diamonds contain virtually all the same properties are mined diamonds. The difference between a mined diamond and a lab grown diamond can only be detected by special equipment that can detect a faint trace of vapor deposition. Due to the ability to manufacture this diamond material in a lab, they are more affordable than mined diamonds, which are becoming increasingly scarce.
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Lab-grown diamonds can be grown in any shape. For example, this is a 3 carat D color VS2 lab grown diamond.[/caption]
There are two ways to grow a diamond. For example, one technique is called "chemical vapor deposition" or for brevities sake, CVD diamonds. Another technique utilized to grow diamonds is a process called high pressure, high temperature also known as HPHT. There exists a bevy of CVD processes.
Chemical vapor deposition (CVD) is part of a process in which solid material is deposited from a vapor by a chemical reaction. This occurs heated substrate surface. The result forms a solid material in the form of a thin film, powder, or a single crystal. For example, in thermally activated CVD, the deposition is started and held together by heat. Furthermore, photons, electrons, and ions, and a combination of them, initiates CVD reactions. By changing the variables and experimental conditions, such as substrate temperature and materials, as well as the composition of the reaction gas mixture and pressure, many diamond colors, clarities, and materials with a wide range of physical and chemical properties can be grown.
Diamond simulants cost much less than both lab grown diamonds and natural "mined" diamonds. They are an affordable option compared to diamonds and have a similar appearance. The difference in appearance comes from the many cuts and types of material used. For example, moissanites have a double refraction which sparkles even more than a diamond. However, due to this intense refraction of light, they are easily distinguishable to a trained eye. Furthermore, the larger the stone, the more obvious it is not a diamond. Many consumers might find the beauty in the sparkle and rightfully so!
Value wise, lab-created diamonds are not easily re-sellable. They do not maintain any value, and the consumer should know they are not an investment like a mined diamond. This is because diamonds created in a lab can be grown, offering little incentive for investment purposes. The price of lab grown diamonds are around 95% less expensive than mined diamonds respectively. One benefit of this is the ability to create the perfect piece of jewelry, whether it be an engagement ring or a diamond necklace.
One tremendous benefit to consider when buying lab grown diamonds is the fact that they require no new mining of the earth. The fact that growing diamonds does not require disturbing nature is a major point of sale. One can now enjoy all the beauty of diamonds and diamond jewelry for a fraction of the price. Lab grown diamonds are being marketed as the socially responsible alternative to mined diamonds. This is because they are produced in a laboratory, in controlled environments, and have occupational health and safety regulations akin to other industries. Moreover, many diamond growers use renewable energy to reduce their environmental footprint. This is a very attractive option to consumers looking for an ethical alternative to mined diamonds.
There is no resale value for simulated diamonds. They are simply worth the cost of manufacturing and no more. Diamond simulants are often used to adorn clothing and can optically appealing. The is no comparison visually to either natural diamonds or lab grown diamonds as well as value wise.
There are a bevy of diamond simulants on the market. For example, the two most popular diamond simulants are moissanites and cubic zirconias. Another visual alternative to a diamond simulate could be a white sapphire or even a white topaz.
If you have any questions regarding diamonds, please do not hesitate to call Diamantaire Imports at 310-616-6694 or via email at Diamantaireimports@gmail.com. We specialize in custom-made diamond engagement rings as well as fine jewelry at wholesale prices to the public. We are happy to match or beat any verifiable price online!