Diamonds are widely considered to be a symbol of love, devotion, and high social rank. Nevertheless, the diamond sector has adapted as the world becomes more environmentally aware and looks for alternatives to conventional practices. The lab grown diamond and hybrid diamonds industry has sparked curiosity and controversy among customers and attracted interest from manufacturers.
Hybrid diamonds and lab grown diamond engagement rings promise to provide the same degree of beauty and longevity as mined diamonds but with fewer environmental and ethical downsides.
Lab grown Diamonds
Lab grown diamonds are actual diamonds “created” in the laboratory by duplicating the natural growing process. They are chemically, physically, and optically indistinguishable from mined diamonds. However, the former does not require extensive mining practices to produce, which results in many environmental and ethical concerns. Therefore, lab grown diamonds are a more sustainable and ethical choice for consumers.
The process of growing a lab-made diamond starts with a small diamond crystal seed. Scientists utilize HPHT, or high-pressure, high-temperature, and CVD, a chemical vapor deposition. In the HPHT process, the diamond grows in a manner similar to the natural conditions of its natural formation with high pressure and temperature. CVD creates a diamond in a vacuum chamber by breaking down gases into carbon layers on the seed. Over time, a diamond crystal forms.
Hybrid Diamonds
Hybrid diamonds are a relatively new notion. They are not pure carbon diamonds produced through synthesis or natural geological processes but rather a mixture of very small diamond crystals and a non-diamond part, usually silicon carbide. The result is a diamond that is not 100% a diamond.
In the market, hybrid diamonds are less expensive than their lab grown and mined counterparts. People who see the beauty and elegance of actual diamonds but cannot afford them can consider hybrid diamonds. Although hybrid diamonds can optically resemble genuine stones, their physical and chemical properties are very different.
Making the Choice
Consumers should consider several factors when choosing between lab-grown and hybrid diamonds or mined ones. Lab grown alternatives are the primary options for people focused on sustainability and environmental footprint. Getting diamonds produced in a laboratory helps save nature.
Additionally, consider the price factor when buying these unique engagement rings. Typical hybrids and grown lab stones are more cost-effective than ‘natural’ stones. Therefore, one is likely to get a bigger and better-quality diamond.
Nonetheless, some will continue to buy mined diamonds because of their rarity and history. In essence, it boils down to individual ethics and choice.
Concluding Thoughts
As the world tackles ecological, ethical, and sustainable problems, choosing between lab grown, hybrid, and mined diamonds will only gain importance. Each has benefits and drawbacks, whether related to environmental consequences, price, or historic value. Consumers decide what suits them best based on their values and knowledge. The most important takeaway from the new diamond era is freedom of choice.