Natural Vs. Lab-Grown Diamonds
Natural Diamonds Vs. Lab-Created
When it comes to selecting a diamond to feature in your piece of fine jewelry, there are a number of things to consider. Our team of experts here at Long Jewelers has put together a quick guide to helping you consider whether a natural or lab-grown diamond better suits your needs.
Characteristics of Natural Diamonds
Natural diamonds and the process by which they are created, are among the most incredible feats of nature. Miles beneath the earth’s surface, carbon particles are subjected to immense amounts of pressure and heat. The particles bond together to form the crystals that make diamonds sparkle. From there, they are transported miles upward to the planet’s crust by way of volcanic eruption. Here, they can be mined and then cut by expert jewelers to allow the gems to truly shine.
How are Lab Created Diamonds Made?
Due to the rarity of natural diamonds and the strain diamond mining can put on an ecological environment, scientists and gemologists worked to perfect a natural diamond alternative. Lab-grown diamonds are chemically and visually identical to their natural counterparts, and are the results of the physical conditions needed to create these gems being recreated in a controlled, laboratory environment. This allows them to be mass produced at lightning speed compared to the natural process.
What are the Benefits of Lab-Grown Diamonds?
Many favor lab-grown diamonds for their assurance that the gems are 100% conflict-free. As they are created in a lab, there is far less chance of workers or an environment being exploited. They also come at lower cost which is also a massive appeal. Because they are man-made, they are almost guaranteed to never have any faults or inclusions, ensuring a crystal clear stone every time.
Why Choose a Naturally-Mined Diamond?
The biggest appeals of naturally-mined diamonds are that they are created by way of incredible natural process, and they are rare and thus retain their value better than lab-created stones do. Many see the almost unimaginable process that creates diamonds as representative of the incredible journey one goes through in life, and thus have a sentimental and emotional attachment to the gems. They can also be resold down the line for a greater profit than a lab-created diamond as the diamond is passed down through generations.
Which Diamond is Right for You?
It is essential to be informed of the difference between natural and lab-created diamonds before shopping for things like engagement rings, wedding bands, and other types of fine diamond jewelry. Really, whether or not a natural or lab diamond is right for you depends on your unique priorities. If a conflict-free stone is the most important thing for you, you may want to opt for a lab-created diamond. If resale value is something at the top of your list, a natural diamond is you best bet.
Find the Best Diamond Selection at Long Jewelers
Long Jewelers is one of the most trustworthy diamond and luxury jewelry retailers in the state, and it would be our pleasure to provide you with the pieces that will mean the most to you. Our Virginia Beach jewelry store is stocked with a carefully curated inventory that we believe reflects our passion for artistry and appreciation for the beauty of the natural world. With the help of our expert team, we’re certain you’ll find the gem or accessory to meet your unique needs. Contact us today for more information on our products and services.
