LAB GROWN
Diamonds can be grown in a laboratory using a variety of methods, but the most common process is called the High-Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) method. In this process, a small diamond seed is placed in a growth cell, along with a carbon source and a metal catalyst, such as iron or nickel. The growth cell is then subjected to extremely high pressure and temperature conditions, which mimic the natural conditions under which diamonds are formed deep within the Earth.
Under these conditions, the carbon atoms in the cell will begin to bond together, forming new diamond crystals that grow around the seed. The metal catalyst helps to speed up the growth process, and the pressure and temperature are carefully controlled to ensure that the crystals grow in the desired shape and size. Both Blue Nile and James Allen have large selections of certified Lab Grown diamonds on their websites.
Another method of growing diamonds in a laboratory is the Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) method. In this process, a gas mixture is introduced into a vacuum chamber, where it is heated to high temperatures. The gas mixture typically includes a hydrocarbon gas, such as methane, along with a source of energy, such as microwaves or lasers. Under these conditions, the gas molecules will break down and release carbon atoms, which then bond together to form diamond crystals on a substrate.
Both the HPHT and CVD methods can produce high-quality diamonds that are virtually identical to natural diamonds in terms of their chemical and physical properties. Lab-grown diamonds are becoming increasingly popular as a PERCEIVED ethical and sustainable alternative to natural diamonds, here and they are used in a variety of applications, from jewelry to high-tech industries such as electronics and aerospace.
Both the HPHT and CVD methods can produce high-quality diamonds that are virtually identical to natural diamonds in terms of their chemical and physical properties. Lab-grown diamonds are becoming increasingly popular as a PERCEIVED ethical and sustainable alternative to natural diamonds, here and they are used in a variety of applications, from jewelry to high-tech industries such as electronics and aerospace.
Contrary to popular belief, Lab Grown diamonds are not a zero carbon footprint product. They may actually create even more carbon dioxide emissions than natural mining!
The use of constant energy, 24 hours a day, seven days a week is just one example of what may make one question the sustainability component of Lab Grown diamonds.
Another example is the massive amount of microwave-heat generators required to duplicate the high pressure, high temperature that exists in the natural formation of diamonds on the earth. Keep in mind, the process of “growing” a diamond is constant and again, 24 hours a day / seven days a week.
are diamond guys! We are partial to natural diamonds as that is what we have grown up with. Understanding the rarity of the gem, the special moments they are to memorialize, and the origin of the rock itself, has provided us with an affinity for the natural diamond.
A Lab Grown diamond appears to be a great option for those looking for a larger stone for LESS $. We do not believe the purchase should be motivated by the thought of a Lab Grown diamond being a more “green” process or zero carbon footprint as this is not necessarily the case.
One may also wish to understand the secondary market for Lab Grown diamonds and that of natural diamonds (meaning if you own something, where can you sell it?). As of the writing of this, there is virtually no secondary market for Lab Grown diamonds (meaning you buy it, you own it possibly forever, as there are limited buyers out there and it is easily accessible at very low prices…keep in mind, there is no limit as to how many Lab Grown diamonds can be created, so no shortages!). MOST companies don’t even offer buyback or upgrade options for a Lab Grown diamond; this should tell you something!
As for natural diamonds being sold in the secondary market, the opportunities appear to be boundless. You can easily search the internet to find options on where to sell your natural diamond. Not to mention that nearly all e-commerce companies selling natural diamonds offer a future upgrade option.
Top lab Grown Sites
Lab Grown Diamonds | James Allen
Lab Grown Diamonds | Blue Nile
Lab Grown Diamonds | WhiteFlash
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