This article is sponsored by Clean Origin.
Have you ever been curious about the difference between lab-grown and mined diamonds?
When you hear about ethical problems with mined diamonds, do you wonder if there’s a better option?
Or, do you want to make sure you’re getting as much diamond as possible for your money?
No matter your reasons, lab-grown diamonds are a great option to look into when diamond shopping is on your list. But, we know you have questions…
- Are they REAL diamonds?
- Are they the same material as mined diamonds?
- How can I confirm the quality?
- (and the most important question) How much do they cost?
Let’s go mining for answers, so the next time you’re shopping for a diamond, you can make the best choice.
Are Lab-Grown Diamonds REAL Diamonds?
The short answer is a resounding YES. Lab-grown diamonds ARE real diamonds. They have the same chemical, structural, and optical qualities as mined diamonds. Mined diamonds begin as carbon deep beneath the Earth’s surface that is exposed to extreme temperatures of around 2,200 degrees Fahrenheit. They are put under extreme pressure of roughly 727,000 pounds per square inch and then transported from deep within the Earth’s core to the surface by way of deep volcanic explosions.
Diamond labs use technology that replicates the natural processes that result in mined diamonds. It begins with a diamond seed, which is a crystal of carbon origin. That seed is exposed to extreme pressure and temperature and begins to form larger diamond crystals.
Therefore, lab-created diamonds are not “fake,” and they are not cubic zirconias.
Why Choose Lab-Grown Over Mined Diamonds?
Let’s say you’re shopping for the perfect solitaire engagement ring. While doing your research you may stumble across stories about “conflict diamonds” or “blood diamonds.” Thanks to the exposure of those unethical practices, most mined diamonds follow a less damaging path.
But if you want to steer clear of any ethical issues with diamonds, lab-grown provides a real-diamond alternative.
You might also want to get as much diamond for your money as possible. Lab-grown diamonds run 20% – 40% less than mined diamonds due to differences in the supply chain.
But otherwise, lab-grown diamonds go through the same process of cutting, polishing, and inspection.
Are Lab-Grown and Mined Diamonds Graded the Same?
The grading process for lab-created diamonds is the same as that applied to mined diamonds. All diamonds are sent to a gem lab for certification and most use the 4Cs (cut, clarity, color, and carat) that you’re used to.
The result is an unbiased grade assigned to each diamond. However, humans do the grading, so the exact grade can vary slightly between labs.
No matter the exact grade, jewelers want you to feel confident and happy about your diamond.
Why are Clean Origin’s Prices Lower than Other Retailers?
The intensive nature of what it takes to create a diamond, mined or lab-grown, plays a big part in the price.
Whether you’re buying an engagement ring, wedding ring, or other diamond jewelry, you want the highest quality stones at the best possible price.
Clean Origin, located in Stonebriar Center, is the world’s largest purely lab-grown diamond retailer. Because of that, they can source their diamonds at a lower cost than other retailers. At up to 40% less than the cost of a mined diamond, lab-grown is a great way to save money on your next diamond purchase.
Or, as the object of your affection might say, it’s a great way to get more diamond for your money!
If you’re in the market for a diamond, consider lab-grown and head into the Clean Origin store in Stonebriar Center to see them for yourself.