Chemical Similarities and Distinctions
The chemical parallels between naturally occurring diamonds forged deep within the Earth's early history and their laboratory-grown counterparts are virtually indistinguishable. In their purest state, both varieties consist predominantly of carbon. Nevertheless, lab-grown diamonds typically exhibit a lower nitrogen content, a component that tends to infiltrate natural diamonds during their formation beneath the Earth's surface. While it is feasible to introduce nitrogen into man-made alternatives, this process demands a greater level of precision and refinement.
In truth, referring to lab diamonds as "synthetic" is an erroneous description, as they are bona fide diamonds. Since 2019, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has abandoned the usage of this term within its Laboratory-Grown Diamond Reports.
Price
The enchanting allure of natural diamonds comes at a higher cost compared to their mined counterparts due to their inherent scarcity. In contrast, the realm of lab-grown diamonds experiences dynamic fluctuations from one year to another, with lab diamonds prevailing as an appealing option at a strikingly reduced price range of approximately 50-60% when compared to their earthly counterparts. This disparity inevitably impacts the resale value as well.
Can the average shopper tell the difference?
Determining the distinction between a natural and man-made diamond presents a challenge for the average shopper. Visual inspection alone is insufficient as the naked eye cannot discern the disparity. Traditional analytical tools commonly employed for diamond assessment also prove inadequate due to the indistinguishable chemical composition and physical characteristics of both types.
To successfully identify a lab-grown diamond, it is necessary to obtain a grading report from a gemologist possessing expertise in employing specialized methodologies such as spectroscopy, testing equipment, and microscopic examination. Additionally, the presence of a laser inscription, occasionally utilized for the purpose of identifying lab-created diamonds, may aid in the recognition process.
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