Lab Grown Diamonds vs Real Diamonds

Diamonds are truly forever: the most hard-wearing gemstone, they’ve been a part of history, a firm segment of our present, and will continue to be a part of our future. They’re the quintessential stone for an engagement ring or significant piece of jewellery: capturing attention through their dazzling sparkle.

At Jason Ree, we work with both natural diamonds and lab-grown ones: we believe that beautiful jewellery can be created with both. We have a range of options for those looking to create a piece with lab-grown diamonds. Read on to learn more about these sparkling alternatives and their traditional counterparts. 

Creating the Real Diamond

Traditionally, the diamond is unearthed through a labour-intensive mining process. This was the method used for centuries: extracting the stones from deep within the Earth’s crust, often through open-pit or underground mining. Diamonds can be found throughout the world, including in parts of Africa, Australia, and Canada.

The diamond in its natural state is found within diamond-bearing ore. From here, the ore is processed, so that the diamond can be separated from other minerals and materials. There are various methods for this, like magnetic separation, gravity separation, and x-ray fluorescence. It’s then crushed into a fine powder so that the diamond can be freed from its ore. From here, diamonds are sorted and graded based on various factors, including size, shape, colour, clarity, and quality. Skilled gemologists carefully examine each diamond to assess its unique characteristics and determine its value. They’re then cut and polished into their desired shape before being certified. These certifications assure the diamond's quality, authenticity, and value.

Creating the Lab-Grown Diamond

In contrast, lab-grown diamonds present a modern and technologically advanced alternative to naturally occurring diamonds. These gems are produced in controlled laboratory environments using sophisticated methods. One common approach involves Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) or High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) techniques.

In CVD, a diamond seed is placed in a chamber filled with carbon-rich gas, where it crystallises layer by layer, forming a diamond. HPHT, on the other hand, mimics the natural conditions under which diamonds are formed deep within the Earth, utilising high pressure and temperature to facilitate diamond growth from a small carbon seed.

The end result is indistinguishable to the naked eye: lab-grown diamonds exhibit the same chemical composition, physical properties, and brilliance as mined diamonds. Furthermore, lab-grown diamonds go through the same grading standards as their natural counterparts. These diamonds offer consumers a conflict-free and sustainable alternative without compromising on quality or beauty.

The Differences Between Lab-Grown Diamonds and Real Diamonds

While lab-grown and mined diamonds share many similarities, there are subtle distinctions that discerning buyers may consider. The most notable difference is how they are made and their environmental impact. While mining natural diamonds has an impact on the environment directly, the amount of electricity required to produce laboratory grown diamonds is also significant and creates its own carbon footprint.

Another factor to consider is the price point. Lab-grown diamonds typically cost less than natural diamonds due to reduced production expenses. This affordability presents opportunities for consumers to invest in larger or higher-quality stones, and perhaps branch out to include other gemstones like sapphires, emeralds, or rubies which complement diamonds beautifully.

Additionally, some individuals may place sentimental value on the natural rarity and historical significance of mined diamonds. These gems have long been associated with romance, tradition, and enduring love, adding a layer of symbolism that resonates with many.

Diamonds are Forever with Jason Ree

At Jason Ree, we work with both natural diamonds and lab-grown diamonds, as we believe that both are beautiful choices for you to wear.

We understand that the choice between lab-grown and mined diamonds ultimately comes down to personal preference and priorities. Both options offer a dazzling array of possibilities for capturing life's most precious moments in both brilliance and beauty. At Jason Ree, we work with both types in our Ready-to-Wear collections and our bespoke pieces. Simply browse our website or Book a Conversation to design your dream piece.