The topic of laboratory diamonds is creating quite a bit of controversy.
It is important to mention that at Ariela'z we made the decision to use only natural diamonds in our pieces. However, we have created some lab diamond engagement rings when specified by the customer and are made by special order only.
Lab diamonds differ from natural diamonds in how they were created. Lab diamonds are created by man in a matter of weeks or months, and natural diamonds are created underground in thousands and thousands of years.
Basically, the only difference between natural and lab-grown diamonds is how they were created. Lab diamonds look and feel like natural diamonds. They are available in all types of shapes and sizes, and it is impossible for the consumer to determine whether a diamond is natural or laboratory-grown since its chemical structure is practically the same with very slight differences.
Despite all the similarities, lab-grown diamonds are significantly cheaper than natural diamonds, and over time, they become easier to create thanks to technology and it is possible that over time they become cheaper and there is a gap higher in price between one and the other.
Natural diamonds are created by nature, as a result of intense heat and pressure, formed over billions of years. Lab-grown diamonds are created in a laboratory and are ready in weeks. There is a slight chemical difference between the two, as natural diamonds contain a very small amount of nitrogen, while lab-grown diamonds do not.
There is no visible difference between the two. Even a professional gemologist needs specialized equipment to know which is which.
The best way to tell the difference is to check the diamond's certification. Jewelers must always indicate if the piece contains a laboratory diamond, so it is always important to buy your jewelry pieces with someone you trust.
If you are looking to buy a laboratory diamond, it is important to take into account the future value that it may have.
