DIAMOND: NATURAL or LAB?

FORMATION

Diamonds are made by geological pressure and intense temperature deep inside the earth over millions of years (Yes, it sounds like a ferry-tail, but this is a true one this time around). Volcanic action later transported them to the surface, where they were found in kimberlite pipes volcanic rock. On the other hand, lab-grown diamonds are artificial diamonds that have been grown in a highly controlled lab setting by scientists. The chemical composition, carbon atom structure, optical qualities, and physical attributes of lab-grown diamonds are identical to natural diamonds. This implies they're equally as stunning and durable as mined diamonds. The only significant distinction between natural and lab-grown diamonds is how they are formed.

GRADING

Like mined natural diamonds, Lab-grown diamonds come in a variety of carat, color, clarity, and cut. Minor internal or visible inclusions in lab-made diamonds are comparable to the cleanest mined diamonds. The same gemological labs that certify natural diamonds use the same exacting criteria to analyze and grade lab diamonds.

APPEARANCE

It is impossible to figure out the difference between a lab-grown diamond and a natural diamond in a side-by-side analysis. To tell one from the other, you'll need specialized equipment. This is because they are identical in every regard. (Something that people who don't want to spend too much on a natural diamond would love to hear... lol ) 

Check the grading report of your diamond to ensure that it was created in a lab. Along with indicating that it was developed in a laboratory, it will also identify the diamond's grade on the four Cs: carat weight, color, clarity, and cut. A grading report ensures that your diamond is of the quality you expect. At Modern Gem Jewelry®, all of our lab-made diamonds above 1 carat come with an IGI lab report, which details the diamond's specific qualities. In contrast, every natural diamond above 0.3 carats are accompanied by a report from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), allowing you to shop with confidence at all times.

While some may believe that lab-grown diamonds cannot glitter as brightly as mined diamonds, this is NOT the case. Let's take a deeper look at these glistening gems.

BRILLIANCE 

Lab-grown diamonds' chemical, physical, and visual qualities are identical to mined diamonds. This means that your lab-grown diamond will have the same brilliance as a mined diamond.

CLOUDINESS 

Whether manufactured in a lab or extracted from the earth, diamonds do not get cloudy with time. This is because of their crystal structure and long-lasting nature. Even though your Natural or Lab Diamonds may accumulate dirt due to daily wear, it is simple to maintain by cleaning with soap and warm water. 

HARDNESS 

Diamonds are the hardest substance on the earth. They score 10 on the Moh scale, indicating that they are exceptionally durable. Lab-grown diamonds have the same hardness, strength, and durability as mined diamonds! Take solace in knowing that lab-grown diamonds are durable enough to be passed down from generation to generation.

FLUORESCENCE 

Fluorescent is a 'glow in the dark effect that occurs in diamonds. When diamonds are exposed to shortwave UV radiation, this phenomenon occurs. As a result of an interaction between some core components in diamonds and UV light, this effect occurs in some lab diamonds and natural diamonds. This phenomenon is most noticeable in some wild, fancy-colored blue diamonds due to the interplay of boron, UV light, and nitrogen in the gemstones.

COLORS 

Lab-grown diamonds are available in white, yellow, blue, pink, and green, with color grading ranging from D to K. Natural diamonds, on the other hand, are available in every possible color, with an endless amount of hues tone, and saturation levels. Color is caused by impurities (such as nitrogen molecules) that become trapped within the diamond lattice as it develops. Different trace compounds in pure carbon generate different colors and saturation levels; the most frequent diamonds are the conventional "white" category, while rarer forms include fancy yellow, pink, and bright blue.

CLARITY 

Clarity grade, another of the four C's of diamond grading, corresponds to the number of flaws in the stone. Diamonds, both natural and artificial, can have a variety of defects.

CUT 

The cut grade of a diamond relates to how well it is cut. Depending on the competence of the person who cuts the stone, both natural and lab-grown diamonds can have a different cut grade.

CARAT GRADING 

The final of the four C's relates to the carat of the diamond. Natural Diamonds and lab-made diamonds can have any carat weight.

PRICING

The cost of lab-grown diamonds is a fraction of the cost of naturally created diamonds. This means you can shop for a gorgeous diamond without depleting your money.