Lab Grown Diamonds vs Mined Diamonds vs Simulants

Lab diamonds vs mined diamonds

Despite what many may believe, lab grown diamonds are virtually impossible to differentiate from natural mined diamonds. The only difference that lab diamonds display is a different trace element, however this does not alter the appearance of the diamond in any and so will in fact display the same physical, chemical and optical characteristics of a mined diamond. The only way to examine this trace element and in turn, differentiate between the two types of diamond is by lab testing.

Given that lab diamonds possess the same physical, chemical and optical properties as a mined diamond, there is very little difference between them when it comes to choosing the best option for you. They both have an identical lifespan for example and both give off the same sparkling finish.

One advantage of a lab diamond over a mined diamond, is its value. Your money is likely to go further with a lab diamond and often reaches an impressive saving of 30-40%.

A further advantage relates to the ethical process of obtaining lab grown diamonds in comparison to mined diamonds. Not only is the carbon footprint significantly reduced by creating diamonds within a lab, but it also eliminates the effects of mining on the environment and the exploitive labour practices often involved with mining.

It is for this reason that they are often referred to as ‘conflict free’.

Lab-grown diamonds vs diamond simulants

Sometimes people confuse lab grown diamonds with diamond simulants. The two are actually very different. A diamond simulant, whilst possessing the same optical characteristics of a diamond, are not actually carbon crystals. These stimulants therefore whilst having the same optical characteristics as a diamond, do not have the same chemical or physical properties as a diamond.

Lab grown diamonds on the other hand, are identical to diamonds in all three properties. Additionally, whilst you would need a lab to tell a lab grown diamond from a mined diamond, someone familiar with diamonds will be able to spot a diamond simulant with the naked eye.

Diamond simulants therefore have a lower value. This may therefore be of interest to those who want the look of a diamond for a lower price and aren’t too concerned about the actual properties of the simulant.

Our grown diamonds are made up of carbon atoms arranged in exactly the same structure you'd find in a mined diamond. Cubic zirconia, moissanite and other diamond simulants are not true carbon crystals