6 Reasons not to buy a Lab Grown Diamond
By Joe Liebenberg
Lab diamonds are a super hot topic at the moment, seen as a more ethical and affordable option compared to mined diamonds, particularly for those looking to buy an engagement ring. But are lab-grown diamonds too good to be true? Are they even valuable? Are they real diamonds? With varying opinions, we aim to simplify the decision-making process by discussing six reasons why some people opt not to buy lab diamonds vs. mined diamonds. Note: We’re big fans of lab diamonds!
1. Lab grown diamonds are worthless
If you have been scoping out that next heirloom diamond, you may have noticed that the cost per carat of lab-grown diamonds has been decreasing rapidly. This is a result of increasing competition in the market and advancements in technology. Not only are lab diamonds becoming more affordable, they’re also becoming more accessible, stunning and diverse.
Once only 20% cheaper, you can now find lab diamonds that are up to 50% cheaper than natural, mined diamonds. Was that a sigh of relief? Can you imagine the savings? We do believe this trend will still continue for a short while before leveling out. Regardless, the question remains – are lab diamonds a wise investment? Let’s be clear, unless you’re buying investment-grade fancy color diamonds, no diamond is a financial investment. Diamonds are symbols of love, memories and special moments. So, whether you choose a mined diamond or a lab-grown diamond, choose what aligns with your values and suits your budget.
2. Lab diamonds are bad for the environment
Let’s take a step towards a greener future! We all want to make a positive impact and choosing an eco-friendly diamond is a great place to start. With the diamond industry known for its lack of transparency, it’s essential to educate yourself before making a purchase.
Did you know that lab-grown diamonds are made using electricity? We all know that electricity, in most instances, are derived from burning fossil fuels – not very environmentally friendly! Some studies say lab created diamonds use 250 million joules of energy per carat. That really seems like a lot? Compare it to natural diamonds that can use up to 540 million.
Don’t despair. There are other advantages. Lab diamonds use much less water and emit fewer carbon emissions compared to mined diamonds. In fact, they use 67 liters of water per carat, while mined diamonds use 470 liters. (Personally, I think its 20 times that)
If you’re passionate about reducing your carbon footprint and you believe in fighting global warming, there’s no better way to showcase your commitment than with a dazzling, lab-grown diamond for your engagement ring.
3. Lab diamonds are not real diamonds
What is real? That ice in your freezer that makes your rosé so refreshing on a hot summer day is not natural. Yet it’s the same in every way. Same goes for lab-grown diamonds. They may be created in a lab, but they’re just as real as their natural diamond counterparts. In fact, they’re identical on an atomic, physical and optical level. Don’t believe us? The FTC ruled in 2018 that “A diamond is a diamond, no matter if it’s grown in a lab or mined from the ground.” So, there you have it.
Still wondering if lab-grown diamonds are the real deal? We’ve got all the info you need on how these beauties are created. Trust us, you’re gonna love ’em.
4. You can’t appraise lab grown diamonds
You know what they say, a diamond is a diamond is a diamond, right? And that goes for lab-grown diamonds too! Most grading labs are certifying them, and jewellery appraisers will give you an appraisal just like they would for a natural diamond, based on their current market value.
Yeah, your appraisal might say “lab created”, but that’s just what it is, folks. And just so you know, an appraisal isn’t the be-all and end-all of your diamond’s worth. It’s just there to give you an idea of what it would cost to replace it if something were to happen, for insurance purposes. No big deal!
5. All lab diamonds are the same
Every single lab diamond is unique, just like the plants in your garden! The growth process involves two methods – CVD diamonds and HPHT diamonds. They use natural diamond as a seed to grow further and it passes on its characteristics to the newly formed diamond. These diamonds can have the same inclusions as natural diamonds and even fluorescence.
So, don’t treat lab grown diamonds like they’re all the same. Just like with natural diamonds, the prices of lab diamonds fluctuate based on the 4C’s. And just like with any diamond, you should always buy with care and attention to detail. Remember, these lab grown beauties are just as real and valuable as natural diamonds!
6. You can only buy small lab grown diamonds
That definitely used to be the case, but those days of tiny lab grown diamonds are far gone. The industry is making serious moves in the lab diamond game. Just look at the trailblazers at Ausburg University who showed us all what’s possible by growing a whopping 155 carat diamond in disc form in 2017. Get ready to shine brighter than J.Lo with a 15-carat stunner of your own – it’s just a matter of time!
Still unsure on lab created diamonds? These are questions everyone’s asking
If you’re feeling unsure about lab grown diamonds, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! You’re not alone – trust us. We’ve heard it all before and we’ve rounded up the most commonly asked questions we hear from couples who are considering this option. So, let’s get to it and give you all the info you need to make the best decision for that engagement ring.
Are lab created diamonds worth anything?
Don’t stress over the value, peeps! Lab grown diamonds are simply a symbol of your love story, just like their natural counterparts. And the best part? They’re currently shining bright at a discount of about 60% compared to mined diamond. So, go ahead and treat yourself and your boo to a dazzling display of love! And hey, neither diamonds, natural or lab grown are considered investments. But that doesn’t take away from the fact that they’ll always hold a special place in your heart.
Are laboratory grown diamonds real?
Certainly in our book! These diamonds are the real deal, tjom. Atomically, physically and optically identical to their natural diamond counterparts. And don’t let anyone tell you otherwise! The diamond industry may call them “microwave diamonds” or “diamond simulants”, but that’s just not the case. They may have a different origin story, but they’re 100% real diamonds!
Are lab created diamonds good?
As good as natural diamonds. Lab-created diamonds come in the same range of optical characteristics as natural diamonds. You can buy a cheap, heavily included warmer color lab diamond or a super white internally flawless one — the choice is yours
Is a lab grown diamond worth it?
Hell yeah! It’s all about what rocks your world and fits your budget. Some lovebirds go for a little less clarity and color for the story behind the stone, while others want that extra carat weight to shine bright. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here – only what makes you and your partner feel good!
Are all lab grown diamonds the same?
Don’t worry, my friend! Lab grown diamonds aren’t all perfect, but that’s what makes them unique and special. Think about it, just like snowflakes, no two lab grown diamonds are alike! They’re formed in a similar way to the natural diamond formation process, so it’s only natural that you’ll see some inclusions and color variations. And that’s what makes each one of them so darn cool!
Need help finding a lab grown diamond?
Head on over to our diamond search where you can see 360-degree images of your next diamond. Not many online stores offer you this great feature, but we figured its best not to get surprised. Inspect your next diamond from all angles.
