When it comes to diamonds, there are a lot of options out there. But as people become more conscious about their choices’ environmental and social impact, lab-created diamonds have been gaining popularity. So why are more and more people choosing them over simulated diamonds? In this post, we’ll explore the differences between these two types of diamond alternatives and why lab-created ones might be better for you.
Introduction – What are Lab-Grown Diamonds and Diamond Simulants?
Lab-grown diamonds and diamond simulants are two types of man-made diamonds. They are created using different processes and have different properties.
Lab-grown diamonds are created in a laboratory by either growing them from a seed crystal or subjecting a piece of carbon to immense pressures and temperatures similar to those found deep within the Earth.
Diamond simulants are much less expensive than lab-grown diamonds and have optical, physical, and chemical properties that closely resemble natural diamonds. The most popular diamond simulant is cubic zirconia (CZ).
Simulants can also be made of other materials, such as moissanite, yttrium aluminum garnet (YAG), and zircon.
Comparing Lab-Grown vs. Simulated – Aesthetics, Cost, and Availability
Simulated diamonds have been on the market for many years, but lab-created diamonds are a relatively new option. So, what’s the difference between the two? And why are more people choosing lab-created diamonds over simulated ones?
Aesthetics
The main difference between lab-created and simulated diamonds is that lab-created diamonds are actual diamonds. They’re made of carbon, like natural diamonds, so they have the same optical and physical properties. On the other hand, simulated diamonds are made of materials like cubic zirconia or moissanite, which don’t have the same properties as diamonds. As a result, simulated diamonds don’t look as good as lab-created or natural diamonds. They may be sparkly, but they don’t have the same fire or brilliance as a real diamond.
Cost
Lab-created diamonds are less expensive than natural diamonds because they’re man-made and don’t require mining. Simulated diamonds are usually even less expensive than lab grown diamonds Adelaide because they’re made of cheaper materials. However, remember that you get what you pay for—a simulated diamond isn’t look as good as a lab-created or natural diamond.
Availability
Natural Diamonds are found in mines worldwide, so their availability can be sporadic. And because they take millions of years to form, there’s a limit to how many can be found. Lab-created diamonds are made in a lab, so they’re consistently available and aren’t subject to the same scarcity as natural diamonds. Simulated diamonds are also readily available since they’re created using synthetic materials.
Tips for Shopping for Lab Grown vs. Simulated Diamonds
There are a few key things to remember when shopping for lab-grown or simulated diamonds. Here are some tips to help you choose the right type of diamond for you:
–Clarity: Lab-grown diamonds are less included than their natural counterparts. This means they often have better clarity and are less likely to have internal flaws. Simulated diamonds, however, can vary widely in terms of clarity. Inspecting the diamond closely before making a purchase is important to ensure that it meets your standards.
–Color: Lab-grown and simulated diamonds come in various colors. However, lab grown diamonds UK tend to be more consistent in color than simulated diamonds. When shopping for a colored diamond, it is important to consider the specific shade that you are looking for and choose a stone that matches your desired color.
–Cut: The cut of a diamond refers to its proportions, symmetry, and polish. Lab-grown and simulated diamonds can be cut into various shapes and sizes. However, it is important to remember that the quality of the cut can vary significantly between stones. When choosing a diamond, carefully examine its cut quality to ensure it meets your expectations.
–Carat weight: The carat weight of a diamond is its size measured in carats. One carat is equal to 0.2 grams. Lab-grown diamonds tend to be available in larger sizes
Conclusion
Choosing the right type of diamond can be a tricky decision. The debate between natural and synthetic diamonds has raged on for years, but it seems the scales are tipping towards lab-created forms over simulated varieties in recent times. Lab-grown diamonds provide a cost-effective solution to acquiring stunning pieces that are minimalistic enough to be worn daily yet still make quite an impression with their quality and resplendence. With more people realizing the value and beauty of these gems, lab created diamonds are likely to become increasingly popular in the future.