In the recent decade, the overwhelming production of lab-grown diamonds has caused mixed responses amongst consumers and the jewellery industry. Many have queries over its authenticity and how it will impact the natural diamond market. However, lab-grown and natural diamonds are indistinguishable in chemical composition, crystal structure, and optical and physical properties. The only difference is merely the way they are formed.
Lab-grown diamonds are a good choice for fashion. However, it will only hold value in the short term due to ever-increasing production and supply.
Lab-grown diamonds have attracted much attention in the jewellery industry in the recent decade. In particular, the industry was shocked in 2018 when global diamond company De Beers announced that they would produce and sell lab-grown diamonds targeted at younger consumers under the Lightbox brand.
A frequently-asked question is whether lab-grown diamonds are similar to natural diamonds. The answer is yes - both are identical in chemical composition, crystal structure, optical properties and physical characteristics. The only difference is how the diamonds are formed.
Natural diamonds are formed over a very long period at extremely high pressure and temperature below Earth’s mantle. Lab-grown diamonds are created by simulating the carbon crystallisation process in a laboratory over days or weeks.
The market price for lab-grown diamonds is generally 20% to 40% less than natural diamonds due to how it is formed and low mine-free production costs. So, which is the better choice - natural or lab-grown diamonds?
In the longer term, lab-grown diamonds will not retain value because of ever-increasing mass production and supply. Still, lab-grown diamonds are a good option from the perspectives of fashion and wearers.
Moissanite, another manufactured diamond simulant, is a popular choice resembling a lab-grown diamond. While both appear remarkably similar, moissanite has better brilliance and fire than lab-grown diamonds. In addition, moissanite will display a ‘doubling’ effect under magnification - which is not found in lab-grown diamonds.
Mohs hardness: 10