In the past couple of years, every time there is a piece on Millennials not buying diamonds, it turns into an internet meme. People have both witty and painfully honest responses to these articles, even though they don’t always provide more clarity on the topic. to get an in-depth idea click https://www.rarecarat.com/blog/diamond-ring-tips/vvs-vs-vs-diamonds-rarecarat-com.
Still, one true statement you will encounter is this: both Millenials and Gen Z as customers care more about ethics and sustainability and this reflects in their approach to buying diamonds. Today, you’ll learn how lab made diamonds are shaping the future of the industry and how you can benefit from it.
Table of Contents
Negative Impact of the Diamond Industry
No matter how much effort has gone into improved manufacturing practices, the diamond industry has a significant social, economic, and environmental impact.
For ages, diamonds were the cause of war and civil unrest. Centuries ago, it was the British Empire expanding its territory and adding jewels to its crown, but today it’s human rights abuses and organized crime. Diamond mining in certain parts of the world is still done at the price of human lives. And though the estimated annual revenue is around 16 billion dollars, very little of that money reaches the people who are doing all that hard and dangerous work.
As for the environment, diamond mining is as destructive as other industries. Deforestation, soil erosion, water pollution, and loss of biodiversity are only a fraction of the price we pay for these shiny rocks. They are all due to the use of heavy machinery and explosives that are often used in the extraction process.
Though many manufacturers have pledged to do better and are choosing more ethical and eco-friendly sources, or even recycling old rocks. However, the rehabilitation of the entire industry is still in its infancy. It’s easier for an average consumer to be certain they have a sustainable diamond if they opt for lab-grown.
How Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Made?
The two most common methods are Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) and High-Pressure High-Temperature synthesis (HPHT).
In the CVD method, the diamond is grown from seed. A small diamond seed crystal is placed in a vacuum chamber. The chamber is then filled with a carbon-rich gas that is then broken down into carbon molecules using microwaves. Those molecules form carbon atoms that adhere to the seed crystal. The diamond is then built layer by layer until it reaches the desired size.
The HPHT method resembles the natural formation of diamonds. It also starts with a seed that is placed in a chamber with a carbon source and a metal catalyst. Then pressure and heat are applied. which dissolves the carbon and forms the diamond around the seed crystal.
It can take between a couple of weeks to a couple of months for a diamond to be grown in a lab, which is slightly quicker than the millions of years they take to form naturally. After that, lab-grown diamonds get the same cutting and polishing treatments as natural ones.
Are the Lab-Made Diamonds Worth It?
The short answer is yes. The long answer, even if we ignore their positive impact on people and the environment, the consumer still gets great value for a (comparably) lower price. On average, lab-made diamonds can cost up to 50% less than their natural counterparts, and the benefits don’t stop there.
Lab-grown diamonds can also last a lifetime (or longer!) when cared for properly and their quality is often comparable to natural stones. Their resale value is currently lower, but many experts believe this will change as the industry develops further.
Finally, they fuel creativity. A lab-grown diamond can come in any color, shape, size, etc, on top of being more affordable. This allows designers to take more risks and create pieces unlike anything we’ve seen before.
And things are only getting better. Lab diamonds have wide applications in medicine, electronics, and scientific research. As their application range expands, the manufacturing processes become even more efficient. This means that an artificial rock that can rival the likes of the Cullinan or Koh-i-Noor may be coming soon.
The Asscher Issue
Asscher diamonds are the most difficult to cut and waste more material than other diamond shapes. This is reflected in their price.
If you are a big fan of this shape, lab-made is a way to go. Not only will they save you money, but they come with all the other benefits listed above.
Conclusion
Edahn Golan, a diamond industry analyst, stated for Forbes: “Lab-grown diamonds have already disrupted the market and are becoming an increasingly popular choice for consumers who want an ethical and sustainable option.” This is the perfect description of the state of things and it’s clear that lab-made diamonds are the future.
Rare Carat supports this big leap forward. You can find a wind range of gorgeous lab-grown rocks, including a huge selection of diamonds including Asscher cut diamonds and if you have additional questions, Rare Carat’s trusted customer service reps will be more than happy to help.
