Lab Created Diamonds vs. Diamond Simulants

When selecting a piece of jewellery, particularly something as significant as an engagement ring or an eternity ring, it’s important to understand the differences between lab-created diamonds and diamond simulants. Both are excellent alternatives to natural diamonds, offering beauty and affordability, but they differ in composition, value, and longevity.

What Are Diamonds?

Diamonds are naturally occurring gemstones formed over billions of years under intense pressure and heat deep within the Earth’s mantle. They are composed entirely of carbon atoms arranged in a crystal lattice, making them one of the hardest substances on Earth. Due to their unparalleled brilliance and durability, diamonds are highly sought after for jewellery, particularly in items like trilogy rings and engagement rings.

What Are Lab-Grown Diamonds?

Lab-grown diamonds, also known as lab-created or synthetic diamonds, are real diamonds produced in a controlled laboratory environment. They share the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as natural diamonds, meaning they are just as hard, durable, and brilliant. The only difference lies in their origin.

How Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Made?

Lab-grown diamonds are created using two primary methods:

• High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT): This method mimics the natural conditions under which diamonds form. A small diamond seed is placed in a chamber where high pressure and temperature are applied, causing carbon atoms to crystallise around the seed, forming a diamond.
• Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD): In this process, a diamond seed is placed in a chamber filled with carbon-rich gas. The gas is heated, breaking down the molecules, and allowing carbon atoms to deposit onto the seed, growing layer by layer into a diamond.

Pros of Lab-Grown Diamonds:

• Ethical and Eco-Friendly: Free from the ethical concerns associated with conflict diamonds and less environmentally damaging compared to traditional mining.
• Affordable: Typically 20-30% less expensive than mined diamonds, offering affordable diamonds for those seeking high-quality jewellery.
• Authentic: Lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds, indistinguishable from mined diamonds without specialised equipment.

Cons of Lab-Grown Diamonds:

• Resale Value: They tend to have a lower resale value compared to natural diamonds.
• Perception: Some may still prefer the allure and rarity of a natural diamond.

What Are Simulated Diamonds?

Simulated diamonds, also known as diamond simulants, are materials designed to imitate the appearance of a diamond but do not share the same chemical or physical properties. Common simulants include cubic zirconia (CZ) and moissanite, which are often used in replica diamond rings.

How Are Simulated Diamonds Made?

Simulated diamonds are created from a variety of materials, each chosen for its ability to mimic the sparkle and brilliance of a natural diamond. They are cut and polished to resemble diamonds, but their internal structure is different.

Pros of Simulated Diamonds:

• Cost-Effective: Significantly cheaper than both natural and lab-grown diamonds, making them ideal for affordable diamond alternatives.
• Variety: Available in a wide range of shapes, sizes, and colours, perfect for fashion jewellery and statement pieces.
• Accessibility: Easy to purchase and replace, making them suitable for those who frequently change their jewellery style.

Cons of Simulated Diamonds:

• Durability: Simulated diamonds are generally softer and more prone to scratching and wear over time.
• Value: They do not retain value over time and are considered fashion jewellery rather than investment pieces.
• Authenticity: While beautiful, they are not real diamonds and can be identified as simulants with relative ease.

Key Differences Between Lab-Created Diamonds and Diamond Simulants

1. Composition: Lab-grown diamonds are composed of carbon, identical to natural diamonds, while simulants are made from different materials like cubic zirconia or moissanite.
2. Durability: Lab-grown diamonds score a 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, making them extremely durable. Simulated diamonds are softer, with cubic zirconia scoring around 8.5, making them more prone to scratches.
3. Brilliance: Both lab-grown diamonds and simulants can be brilliantly cut, but simulants may exhibit different light refraction, making their sparkle slightly different.
4. Value: Lab-grown diamonds retain more value over time compared to simulants, which are often used in more affordable or fashion-oriented pieces like replica diamond rings.

Which Should You Choose?

Choosing between lab-grown diamonds and simulated diamonds depends on your priorities. If you desire a genuine diamond experience, with all the brilliance and durability, lab-grown diamonds are an excellent choice. They are ideal for significant purchases like engagement rings or an eternity ring and are ethically sourced. On the other hand, if you’re seeking an affordable yet beautiful alternative for everyday wear or fashion pieces, simulated diamonds might be more suitable.

At Tru-Diamonds™, we offer a range of lab-grown diamonds and simulated diamond jewellery. Whether you’re purchasing a classic trilogy ring or exploring our ring sizer guide to find your perfect fit, our collections provide affordable diamonds that suit every occasion.

For those concerned about finding the perfect size, be sure to check out a ring size online tool and actual size ring size chart to ensure your chosen piece fits flawlessly. And don’t forget to browse our Tru Diamonds™ reviews to see what other satisfied customers are saying about their purchases.