An introduction to this up-and-coming alternative to natural diamonds
While natural diamonds have always been the traditional go-to choice for engagement rings and other beautiful fine jewellery, “lab grown diamonds” (LGD) have gained traction in recent years, and have even become a widely accepted alternative that even have an edge over natural diamonds in certain aspects.
What are lab grown diamonds?
Lab grown diamonds, also known as synthetic diamonds, are diamonds that are produced in a laboratory setting rather than being formed in the earth's crust. Read this Laine Jewellery blog article about the formation of natural diamonds.
Lab grown diamonds are created using advanced technological processes that mimic the natural conditions required for diamond formation, resulting in diamonds that are chemically, physically, and optically identical to natural diamonds.
The history of lab grown diamonds dates back to the mid-20th century when scientists first began experimenting with creating diamonds in a laboratory setting. In 1954, General Electric created the world’s first synthetic diamond when their researcher H. Tracy Hall and his colleagues built a machine that squeezed carbon so hard it turned into nature’s hardest substance: diamond. Since then, lab grown diamonds have continued to evolve and improve, resulting in high-quality diamonds that are nearly indistinguishable from natural diamonds.
The lab grown diamond (left) and natural diamond (right) cannot be told apart using the unaided eye.
Image credit: GIA.edu
Are lab grown diamonds considered “less worthy” as an engagement ring option?
One of the most infamous etiquette rules for engagement rings is the “3 months’ salary” rule which means that buyers should commit 3 months of their salary to the purchase of a diamond engagement ring as a sign of true love. This frankly outdated “guideline” actually originated in the 1930s as part of a world-renowned diamond brand’s marketing campaign.
While being a natural diamond gemologist and enthusiast, Laine Jewellery is inclined to think that the joy of engagement and marriage should not be hampered by the financial pressure of strictly committing a season’s wage towards a diamond ring as true love should not carry a price tag. With this in mind, lab grown diamonds are indeed a potentially more affordable and sustainable option. Let’s have a look at a comparison of these two types of diamonds!
Natural Diamonds vs. Lab Grown Diamonds 🧐
A beautiful ring encrusted with lab grown white and pink diamonds.
Image credit: GIA.edu
Lab grown diamonds have become increasingly popular in recent years due to them being more ethical and sustainable, not to mention their competitive price tag as compared with natural diamonds.
All things considered, natural diamonds and lab grown diamonds each have their pros and cons, and the up-and-coming lab grown diamonds are definitely a notable alternative to their natural counterparts. Ultimately, the choice between natural and lab grown diamonds is a personal one that should take into consideration individual values and preferences.
Interested in purchasing lab grown diamonds? Laine Jewellery will have exciting news to share about LGDs in May 2023. Watch this space for our big announcement!
Feel free to get in touch with Laine Jewellery for recommendations and advice on diamonds or customised rings! I offer free consultation services every Friday at my studio at Two ifc, bookings required. Interested parties please make a reservation through Whatsapp or Laine Jewellery’s Facebook page!
Whatsapp: +852 6819 2038
Email: info@lainejewellery.com
Elaine 💌