Lab Grown Diamond Jewellery

About lab diamonds - A laboratory grown diamond is often referred to as lab-grown diamond and are diamonds that are made (and consist) of the exact same materials as a natural diamond. The chemical, physical and optical properties of a lab-grown diamonds exactly match that of a natural diamond, explaining why they have become so popular and in high demand. independent for use in bridal and wedding jewellery as well as fashion jewellery.

History of Lab Diamonds

For hundreds of years scientists unsuccessfully attempted to create man-made diamonds. In the mid 20th century a number of breakthrough in creating lab-grown diamonds were achieved, which paved the way for gem grade diamond crystals being produced in the 1970s. Since then vast technology advancements have been made to produce exceptional lab-grown diamonds which we can purchase today. 

 

How are Lab Diamonds made?

There are two main ways that lab grown diamonds are made, Chemical Vapour Disposition (CVD) and High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT).  CVP involves seed crystal combining with hydrogen and methane in a high temperature chamber allowing the a rough diamond to grow on the seed crystal. HPHT replicates how a diamond would naturally grow, by fusing carbon under a high amount of temperature and pressure to form a diamond. Of the two HPHT has the higher energy requirement which has made CVD a more popular option. 

 

Can I tell the difference between a Lab and Natural Diamond?

Not to the naked eye - if looking and comparing both diamonds you will be unable to see any difference between a lab-grown and natural diamond. Under at least 10X magnification will you be able to see an inscription code within the diamond identifying it as lab-grown diamond or natural diamond, however the only proper way to identify between a lab-grown and natural diamonds it to send it to a gemological laboratory to have it tested. Lab Grown Diamonds are generally certified by the International Gemological Institute (IGI) while natural Diamonds are certified by the the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) amongst others. All our diamonds above 0.30ct come with a full diamond certificate so you will always have the confidence that your diamond purchase is backed with a laboratory report and certificate. 

What are the benefits of a Lab Grown Diamond vs Mined Diamond. 

Lab diamonds are a more cost effective option compared to mined diamonds and probably the biggest advantage is that a consumer will be able to get a larger, higher quality (4 c's) lab diamond for the same price as a natural diamond. From an ethical point of view lab grown diamonds are also considered a better choice as you can be 100% sure it is not a "blood diamond" and arguably have a lower carbon footprint, making them to likely be a more sustainable choice. 

As a general guide lab diamonds generally retail for about 50% of the price of a like for like mined natural diamond with the exact same specifications. This allows you not only get the quality diamond you wanted but will also likely leave some spare extra cash that you can spend elsewhere such as the wedding or honeymoon. 

 

Mapping out the Price Difference

The real benefit with a lab grown diamonds is that that couples can get the exact diamond specs within their budget when it comes to the 4C's (carat, clarity, colour & cut).

In general a a 1ct, VS1, E, Excellent cut natural diamond could cost anything upwards of $12000. In comparison a 1ct, VS1, E, Excellent cut lab grown diamond would cost around $5500. Whilst these prices will vary as wholesale prices move up and down, it provides a snapshot of how the price of these diamonds compare and the reason why lab grown diamonds from a pricing perspective alone are such an attractive option. 

 

The Future of Lab Grown Diamonds

Lab diamonds are in the early stages of their growth cycle and it is highly likely that they will become even a more popular choice of diamond into the future. forecasts are showing that lab diamonds will continue to take up a larger and larger portion of the overall diamond market and then likely level out at a level where they are as almost as widely sold as natural diamonds or maybe even more popular. One thing that we can be very confident about is that lab grown diamond are most definitely here to stay. 

Discover the Collection

If you are after and stunning engagement ring and centre diamonds then KAVALRI should be your first stop.  We have showroom located in both Melbourne and Brisbane and offer the best IGI and GIA grade lab grown diamond at brilliant prices. We not only offer the most exceptional engagement ring designs along with lab-grown or natural diamond that can be viewed through our diamond portal making the process of finding your perfect diamond simple and stress free. 

Discover the KAVALRI difference for yourself today!