So many of us have loved the beauty and brilliance of diamonds, yet we tend to think twice before splurging on them because high-quality natural diamonds can be quite expensive. But thanks to technological advancements, everyone can make the most of diamonds without breaking the bank. The marvel that has made this possible is a lab-grown diamond – a feat that admirers of this precious gem must celebrate, including those who love all things bright and colourful.
Colourful Lab Diamonds: Is That Even Possible?
Yes, absolutely. But before we delve into that, let’s first achieve complete clarity on how exactly a lab diamond is born.
Lab diamonds, sometimes called cultured diamonds, are typically created through chemical vapor deposition (CVD) or high-pressure high-temperature (HPHT) synthesis. In both methods, scientists meticulously replicate the extreme conditions found deep under the earth’s crust, where diamonds are naturally formed.
CVD : In this method, a small diamond seed is placed in a vacuum chamber filled with a carbon-rich gas, such as methane. The gas is then heated to extreme temperatures, causing the carbon atoms to break apart and settle on the diamond seed, gradually building up layers of diamond crystal. This process continues until the desired size and quality of the diamond are achieved.
HPHT : In this process, high pressure and temperature are utilized to crystallize carbon around a diamond seed in a press. In comparison to the CVD method, the growth of the lab diamond cultivated in this process is slower, and there is less control over the impurities that end up on the gem. Generally, the HPHT method is considered more suitable for larger diamonds and is commonly used in industrial applications and jewellery.
The Infusion of Vibrant Colours
While it might seem surprising, lab-grown diamonds can most certainly be found in a range of beautiful colours, just like their natural counterparts. This is achieved by introducing trace elements or defects during the diamond’s growth process in the laboratory.
For example, in order to achieve a stunning blue lab diamond, boron will be infused during the growth process, while the addition of nitrogen will result in a yellow or orange colour. Similarly, radiation exposure during the growth process can produce green diamonds, while pink and red hues are achieved through structural defects in the crystal lattice.
So essentially, by controlling the growth conditions and introducing specific elements or defects, scientists can create lab diamonds in stunning colours, from delicate pastels to rich, vivid tones.
Who Should Opt for Lab-Grown Colour Diamonds?
Anyone who wants to own a diamond at an affordable price without compromising on beauty, brilliance, and durability is the perfect candidate for lab-grown colour diamonds. The most crucial factor that has led to the success and ever-growing demand for lab diamonds is the fact that they are 100% real. They are the same as earth-mined diamonds in all aspects, including their chemical composition, crystal structure, physical properties, and optical brilliance. So, with a lab diamond, you get to enjoy a real diamond minus the ethical concerns and environmental impact associated with traditional mining practices. That’s a win for the consumers and nature.
The availability of these science-created marvels in beautiful colours further sweetens the deal. Even when it comes to engagement rings, everyone doesn’t wish to go down the traditional route of proposing with a white diamond ring. If you or your partner love a pop of vibrancy or if you wish for a sparkler that doesn’t look ordinary, then a coloured lab diamond ring will be a fitting choice.
Which Are the Best Fancy Colours for a Lab Diamond?
This completely depends on your personal choice, but here are some popular options you can consider.
Pink : Pink lab-grown diamonds are highly sought-after for their delicate and romantic appearance. Those with intense and vivid hues are considered rare and may command higher prices. However, lighter or softer pink shades are generally more affordable.
Blue : Blue lab-grown diamonds look absolutely sophisticated and are a great alternative to natural blue sapphires. They vary in price depending on factors such as the intensity of the blue hue and the size and quality of the diamond. Typically, deeper and more saturated blue tones are priced higher.
Yellow : Yellow lab-grown diamonds are known for their warmth and vibrancy. They come in a range of shades, from subtle lemon yellows to rich canary yellows, with the latter demanding a higher price tag. Lighter lemon-yellow lab diamonds, on the other hand, are more budget-friendly.
Purple : Purple lab-grown diamonds radiate a royal and luxurious vibe. They come in various shades, from soft lavender to deep violet. Their price can vary depending on various factors, such as the depth of the purple hue and the size and clarity grade of the lab diamond. Generally, deeper violet-toned lab diamonds are more expensive than the stones in lighter lavender shades.
Certification for Coloured Lab-Grown Diamonds
Coloured lab-grown diamonds undergo certification, just like their natural counterparts. The certificate offers consumers important information about the diamond’s characteristics, including its colour, clarity, cut, and carat weight, as well as any treatments or enhancements it may have undergone.
Certification for coloured lab-grown diamonds is typically conducted by gemological laboratories that specialize in diamond grading, such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), the International Gemological Institute (IGI), or the American Gemological Society (AGS). These laboratories use standardized grading criteria and state-of-the-art equipment to assess the quality and authenticity of coloured lab-grown diamonds.
Planning to Buy Lab Grown Coloured Diamonds?
If yes, then make sure to familiarize yourself with colour grading scales and assess the intensity and hue of the coloured lab-grown diamond before making a purchase. Scrutinizing the diamond in person or through detailed photographs is also of utmost importance. Examining its colour, clarity, and overall appearance under different lighting conditions will help you select a stone that perfectly meets your expectations.
Remember, coloured lab-grown diamonds are available at different price points, so choose wisely to get the most value for your money, and always pick quality over size. A small but intense blue lab diamond would be better than a large one with a pale hue.
At Skygem & Co., we offer lab diamonds in exquisite colours, including blue, purple, pink, yellow, green and black, among others. All our lab-grown colour diamonds are certified by the International Gemological Institute (IGI) to ensure utmost quality and peace of mind.
