OVERVIEW
Lab-grown diamonds are artificial diamonds that have been generated in a highly controlled laboratory 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.
HOW ARE LAB DIAMONDS FORMED ?
High-pressure high-temperature (HPHT) and chemical vapor deposition (CVD) are the two most prevalent procedures for creating lab-grown diamonds.
The HPHT process mimics the natural formation of diamonds deep beneath the Earth's crust. Scientists expose a tiny diamond crystal to pure carbon within a containment chamber using this procedure. They then subject it to extreme temperatures and pressures, causing the carbon to melt and form a lab-grown diamond around the diamond seed.
When scientists employ the CVD process, they likewise start with a diamond seed placed in a chamber. They heat the chamber to extreme temperatures, fill it with a carbon-rich gas, and ionize it using microwaves or lasers. This allows pure carbon to separate from the carbon-rich gas, after which it will layer by layer form a lab-grown diamond around the diamond seed.
HARDNESS AND STRENGTH OF LAB DIAMONDS
Lab-created diamonds are unquestionably strong enough to be used in an engagement ring. Lab-grown diamonds, like mined diamonds, have a mineral hardness rating of 10 on the Mohs scale. Most jewelers recommend a Mohs scale of 9 or higher for daily rings such as engagement rings. Lab-created diamonds readily pass this test with a score of 10 out of 10.
CLARITY OF LAB-GROWN DIAMONDS
An inclusion is similar to a birthmark in gemstones (whether Lab created or mined). They are formed during the growth process of the gem or diamond. These could be unique interior or exterior imperfections seen within or outside the diamond. Visible inclusions, to some extent, will influence the overall appearance of the diamond, i.e., a heavily included diamond will sparkle less compared to a diamond free of inclusions. This is true for both Lab and Natural Diamonds.
There are many different inclusions, ranging from obvious ones that can be seen with the naked eye to inclusions that are impossible to see even when the diamond is magnified.
COMMON TYPES OF INCLUSIONS:
The clarity grade of a diamond is heavily influenced by the type and number of inclusions(imperfections) visible to the eye. Below are five common types of inclusions mostly seen in diamonds.
Needle
A needle inclusion is like a thin, long line. In the same way, a sewing needle appears.
Cloud
Cloud inclusions acquire their name because they resemble a cluster of pinpoints when magnified. Cloud inclusions can be found within a diamond.
Crystal
Crystal inclusions appear to be an optical illusion. Consider the possibility of putting a diamond within a diamond. These inclusions originate as a result of microscopic diamond or mineral deposits becoming trapped inside during the formation process.
Feather
Feather inclusions are the second most found type of inclusions in Lab Diamonds. A feather inclusion, like a needle inclusion, has small fissures from top to bottom. If a feather inclusion is deep enough, it might have a heavy impact on the diamond's structure.
Pinpoint
Pinpoint inclusions are the most prevalent type of inclusion among the more than a dozen types of inclusions. Pinpoint inclusions appear as tiny black dots on the diamond tabletop.
IGI Clarity Grades for Lab Diamonds
The International Gemological Institute (IGI) was founded in 1975.. IGI is regarded as a diamond industry powerhouse, with independent laboratories around the world and academies offering degrees in the discipline of gemology.
The IGI clarity scale has several grades: IF, VVS1, VVS2, VS1, VS2, SI1, SI2, I1, I2, I3. The level of internal and exterior diamond imperfections is indicated by these grades. The clarity comparison chart for lab-grown diamonds is similar to the grades assigned to natural diamonds. The grades are as follows:
I – Included: visible
SI - Slightly Included: Hard to see with the naked eye, but visible with an x10 magnifying glass.
VS - Very Slightly Included: Flaws visible only under x10 magnification.
VVS - Very, Very Slightly Included: There are flaws but they are difficult to notice, even with x10 magnification.
FL/IF - Flawless / Internally Flawless: There are no faults noticeable even at x10 magnification.
BENEFITS OF PURCHASING LAB-GROWN DIAMONDS
Purchasing lab-grown diamonds has numerous advantages:
Less costly: 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. Find out more about the pricing point distinction.
Genuine diamonds: A lab-created diamond is just as genuine as naturally formed diamonds.
Where Can I buy Lab Diamonds?
Modern Gem Jewelry offers a fantastic selection of lab-created diamonds, naturally grown diamonds, and pre-set diamond rings. All of our lab-made diamonds come with IGI lab report, which details the diamond's specific qualities, allowing you to shop with confidence at all times. Explore our stunning engagement ring sets and loose lab-grown diamonds that you will surely enjoy.
