Lab-grown diamonds are the new rave in the jewellery arena and are consistently burgeoning in popularity throughout the world. People are talking about it, but at the same time, they are still speculating whether to buy and invest in it. As customers prioritise environmental and ethical issues in their choices, lab-grown diamonds emerge as an appealing option, representing the changing ideals of today's wise and conscious consumers.
What Are Lab Grown Diamonds?
Lab-grown diamonds are artificial diamonds engineered to replicate the traits and looks of naturally occurring diamonds. These synthetic gems are composed of carbon atoms arranged in structures that mimic both the chemical composition and visual aspects of natural diamond crystals.
Dr. Preeti Jain, Founder, Jewels By Preeti said, "Diamonds created in the lab are practically anatomically identical to natural diamonds; their chemical makeup is identical. These diamonds are meticulously created in the laboratory under the right temperature, pressure, and gas and are marketed as being more environmentally friendly than natural diamonds."
On the other hand, natural diamonds are formed deep below the earth’s surface amidst temperatures ranging from 900°C to 1300°C and pressures surpassing 45 kbar. Thus, both natural diamonds and lab diamonds go through a rigorous and complex creation process.
Dr. Preeti said, "In terms of making duration, lab-grown diamonds take 6 weeks to be made, whereas real diamonds take around 1000 years to be formed naturally, and just like how real diamonds come out in the form of rough diamonds, even lab-grown diamonds come out in the same manner as rough diamonds."
"Also, the process of cutting and polishing is the same for both. There is no visible difference between the two, even for jewellers. Once polished, both look the same in terms of aesthetics," she added.
Category Of Lab Grown Diamonds:
Just like the way cut and colour clarity is of utmost priority for discerning diamond shoppers when buying real diamonds, the same is the case with lab-grown diamonds.
Dr. Preeti said, "Lab-grown diamonds are also categorised in a similar way as real diamonds- having colour like D E F G H I J K, and also clarity like IF VVS VS SI."
"When purchasing lab-grown diamonds, customers should pay more for the colour of the diamonds instead of prioritising their clarity. Don't overlook the colour aspect, as the price of these diamonds increases with better colour. So, its better to go for stellar quality colour, and not below G, as colour is usually responsible for how white the diamond is and how bright it shines," she added.
Difference Between Lab-Grown Diamonds And Mined Diamonds:
Darayus Mehta, Co-Founder, True Diamond said, "For me, there is absolutely zero difference in the end output – both are real diamonds, both are Identical – chemically, physically & optically. 8 Billion people in the world, and not one, not even superman can identify the difference between them through the naked eye."
Although the look and shine of lab diamonds are same as that of natural ones, they differ in the making process.
Darayus Mehta said, "While mined diamonds have been a symbol of everlasting love & beauty, they are also a symbol of mass destruction. Lab-grown diamonds represent a significant shift in that way. They retain all the same beauty but also provide a more sustainable and responsible alternative to their counterparts."
He also went on to explain how making lab diamonds is more sustainable saying, "By using cutting-edge technology, lab-grown diamonds significantly reduce land disruption, water pollution, emissions of carbon dioxide, Blood diamond trade and human rights violations. The ethical implications of lab-grown diamonds are significant: they are produced without the social and humanitarian challenges commonly connected with diamond mining. It's not entirely about the beauty of a diamond but about the journey towards a more sustainable and ethical future."
Price Of Lab Grown Diamonds:
One of the most striking advantages of lab-grown diamonds is their price point, which caters to a multitude of middle-class people as well, making them an economical and budget-friendly choice. It is also a favourable and smart choice for affluent customers.
Dr. Preeti said, "The elite class buys it more now as, for them, it's not an investment because of its lower resale value, but rather a smart choice to keep adding more to their jewellery arsenal without spending an excessive amount, while at the same time giving the impression that they are donning real diamond jewellery."
Market Value Of Lab Grown Diamonds:
Diamonds, when bought, include the cost of diamond, making charges and the base metal on which the diamond is placed. Natural diamonds are much more expensive compared to lab-grown ones because of their rarity, although there is no visible difference between the two.
Over time, the price discrepancy between natural and lab-created diamonds becomes less significant, while their values become more pronounced. Natural diamonds tend to retain more value compared to their lab-grown counterparts.
Despite the increasing popularity of lab-created diamonds, most diamond purchasers are willing to pay a slight premium for the natural ones.
Furthermore, although natural diamonds aren't exceedingly rare within the Earth's crust, they are notably scarcer than lab-created diamonds. The quantity of diamonds that can be mined is limited, whereas there is virtually no limit to the production capacity of lab-grown diamonds.
These factors play a role in shaping the resale values of both lab-created and natural diamonds.
From the resale point of view, a natural diamond will lose some of its value immediately after purchase, but a lab-grown diamond will lose all of its value.
Thus, natural diamonds possess resale value, ensuring a partial return on investment if you decide to sell your diamond later on. Additionally, they hold intrinsic value due to their beauty, durability, and symbolic significance. Conversely, for those seeking a more economical option, lab-grown diamonds offer a viable alternative, but they lack resale value.
8 Ways To Style Diamond Jewellery This Summer
As the weather begins to warm up. Why not add some shine and brilliance of diamonds to your collection of jewellery? It is time to let your diamond jewellery shine bright with fresh, warm-weather looks. Your wrists, ankles, midriffs and décolletage are exposed to the sun's warm rays and are open to be decorated with fine diamond pieces. The summer season comes with its temptation to embrace a more minimalist approach to dressing, allowing diamond jewellery to take centre stage.
Let’s explore ways to style diamonds during the summer season suggested by Eshwar Surana, Managing Director of Raj Diamonds
- Opt for Dainty Jewellery: Diamonds can truly shine even when you opt for them as part of dainty jewellery. Delicate diamond anklets can adorn sun-kissed feet in strappy sandals. Dainty diamond bracelets and bangles effortlessly adorn the wrists peeking out of breezy blouses. Diamond belly chains can be draped across midriffs exposed in crop tops. And layered diamond delicate necklaces can perfectly fit into the décolletage of plunging necklines during the sultry summer months.
- Invest in a Versalite Diamond Ring: A chic and minimalistic diamond ring can be your go-to partner during summer. With its elegance, a simple diamond solitaire will seamlessly transition from casual day looks to a soiree. For an effortless style, slip on a thin diamond eternity band or dainty round brilliant solitaire. These low-key yet luxurious rings will add just the right amount of sparkle to your warm-weather outfits like breezy sundresses, jean shorts, or linen apparel.
- Go Minimal with Studs: When the heat is on, sometimes less is more. A pair of classic diamond stud earrings is the perfect subtle accessory to complement any summer outfit, from sundresses to denim cutoffs. Keep it chic and elegant with a pair of studs during summer.
- Sport a Tennis Bracelet: A diamond tennis bracelet is a timeless and effortless way to add radiance to your wrist this summer. For an easy, breezy everyday style, slip on a classic tennis bracelet. It will instantly elevate a simple look with a touch of sparkle.
- Embrace Statement Earrings: When the sun goes down, summer nights remain quite balmy. Turn up the glam with a dramatic diamond chandelier or hoop earrings. They'll be the perfect match for your party-ready outfits. A dramatic chandelier enhances your look without the need to put on heavy make-up.
- Play with Colourful Gemstones: While diamonds have their lustre, you can breathe new life into diamond pieces by pairing them with vibrant coloured gemstones like emeralds, rubies, or sapphires. The contrast of dazzling diamonds alongside rich gem tones creates a bold, multidimensional look that exudes style and sophistication.
- Use Diamond Pieces as Hair Accessories: Hair adornments and jewelled accessories have gained major popularity, making diamonds the perfect choice to incorporate into summertime hairstyles. For a bohemian-inspired look, braid a delicate diamond chain or dainty diamond charms into your hair. You can add sprinkle diamond hair pins or minimalist clusters throughout your lengths for a constellation of twinkling accents. Diamonds are more than traditional jewellery. Get creative and use these precious gems in hairstyles for a fresh and modern way to sparkle.
- Diamond Brooches to Steal the Attention: While the sweltering summer often calls for minimalist, unfussy jewellery, a statement-making diamond brooch allows you to make a maximum impact this summer. These sparkling pins provide an eye-catching, luxurious touch when placed on summer's lightweight fabrics. Steal the spotlight at an evening party by fixing an antique-inspired diamond brooch to the waistline of a flowy chiffon gown or maxidress.