Lab-Grown Diamonds vs Natural Diamonds: The Sparkle Comparison

Lab diamonds vs real diamonds?

Defined by their exceptional hardness, diamonds are the purest form of transparent carbon. Among the rarest and most spectacularly known elements to us all, diamonds are formed through a complex natural process that unfolds over billions of years.

Today, thanks to cutting-edge technology, this phenomenal process can now be replicated in an astounding 14-35 weeks. Courtesy of the advanced CVD lab grown method, the bonding together of billions of carbon atoms into a unique cubic crystal lattice can be made possible within state of the art facilities, producing a breathtaking real diamond - taking forensic testing for even professionals forensic to detect the difference.

So how are lab diamonds and real diamonds formed? Do CVD lab grown diamonds hold their value? And what’s the difference between lab grown diamonds vs real diamonds?

How are natural diamonds formed?

Natural diamonds are geological wonders. Their remarkable formation has already happened over billions of years ago deep within the earth - long before we ever discovered them. These elements of natural beauty are created under intense heat and extreme pressures of the earth’s mantle (located between the Earth’s crust and core). Here at depths of around 150 to 200 kilometres below the surface, the pressure at these levels is the equivalent to millions of kilograms at 45-60kB (which is about 50,000 times the pressure that of the atmosphere at the earth's surface). These immense pressures combined with high temperatures of between 1300-9000 degrees celcius create an environment where carbon atoms can bind together to form a diamond. Under these conditions, Carbon, an element abundant in the Earth’s mantle undergoes a fascinating transformation to form the crystalline structure of a diamond rough.

Every natural diamond you come in contact with is billions of years old. From the mantle depths below, diamonds emerge to the earth’s surface through the power of volcanoes. They propel to the surface via volcanic eruptions, travelling within the magma to settle within the kimberlite pipe formations. Throughout the world, an abundance of natural diamonds are deposited within kimberlites, and it can take 10 years to uncover a deposit - all part of the reason for their high value and rarity.

What’s the difference between Lab-Grown Diamonds vs Natural Diamonds?

If you were to compare lab-grown diamonds with natural diamonds, without being told or checking a laser inscription - you’d never be able to tell the difference. As the name suggests, lab-grown real diamonds are created in a laboratory using advanced technologies that mimic natural diamond formation. The key difference between lab grown diamonds and natural diamonds lies in their origin.

A lab grown CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition) diamond reveals the exact characteristics of a natural diamond. Formed from a real diamond seed, they are exposed to similar conditions (heated in chambers between 700-1300 degrees celsius and under tremendous pressures) to bond carbon atoms together into a three-dimensional structure that forms the diamond rough.

Do lab-grown diamonds hold their value?

There is also a significant difference in price of lab-grown diamonds and natural diamonds. It’s always greatly debated as to whether lab grown diamonds will hold their value as well as natural diamonds over time. Seeking to purchase a lab diamond as an investment never has a guarantee. Their value retention will depend greatly on many factors such as supply and demand and foreign trade - which is always difficult to predict.

See more: Will Lab grown diamond replace Natural diamond?

Man made diamonds vs real diamonds?

A common misconception is thinking that a lab grown diamond is not a real diamond. CVD lab grown diamonds are the most advanced method of producing a beautiful real diamond. They are identical in their characteristics and those in the industry even need to examine under microscope/view their laser inscription to visually see the difference. Often clients ask, is a moissanite a lab grown diamond? The answer is no. They are frequently confused diamond alternatives alongside cubic zirconia. For more information, read our post Lab grown diamond vs Moissanite: Read before you buy!

Seek Expert Guidance at Janai

Whether you choose a natural or lab grown diamond, both offer exceptional beauty. Natural diamonds, often considered one of nature’s most incredible creations, showcase complex and raw beauty that has formed over millions of years. Lab-grown diamonds on the other hand, offer an identical option that is much more affordable yet equally spectacular - without compromising on quality or brilliance.

Contact our team at Janai Jewellery today to book your appointment today and discover our extensive collection of natural and lab grown diamonds.