Cultivated diamonds are replacing mined diamonds due to affordability, sustainability, and environmental impact.
The rise and impact of lab-grown diamonds have brought with it questions about their safety and environmental impact. Here are eight myths surrounding these diamonds and how these claims hold no merit.
Authenticity
Myth: They are fake, synthetic, or artificial.
Reality: They are neither synthetic nor artificial. These diamonds are created by the same processes that create mined diamonds in the Earth’s crust. They have the same physical, optical, and chemical properties.
Impurity and Inferior Quality
Myth: They are opined to be impure and of inferior quality.
Reality: They are of the same quality and purity as their mined counterparts, if not better. This is because lab-grown diamonds undergo strict quality control and are created from a top selection of diamond seeds. They have precise cutting and polish. These diamonds do not incur the cost of mining; therefore, the cost-benefit is passed on to the customer, making it an affordable affair.
Lower durability and Fading Colour
Myth: Lab-grown diamonds are less durable than mined diamonds, and their colour fades over time.
Reality: They are just as durable as the others, thus reinforcing the adage “diamonds are forever.” The hardness of both is the same since they are made of carbon and formed under similar pressure and temperature conditions. They do not fade or change colour over a prolonged duration because they hold the same optical properties.
Harmful Chemicals
Myth: Some believe that the production of lab-grown diamonds involves the use of harmful chemicals.
Reality: Lab-grown diamonds are created using two primary methods: High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD). While these methods use gases and chemicals in controlled environments, the processes are highly regulated to ensure safety. The chemicals used are not harmful since the process is highly monitored.
Environmental Concerns
Myth: There are concerns that lab-grown diamond production has a negative environmental impact.
Reality: Lab-grown diamonds are often considered more environmentally friendly than natural diamonds. They require fewer natural resources, and many manufacturers are investing in environment-friendly practices, such as using renewable energy sources.
Health Risks
Myth: Some worry that wearing lab-grown diamonds may pose health risks.
Reality: Lab-grown diamonds are composed of pure carbon, just like natural diamonds. They are chemically inert and pose no health risks when worn as jewellery. In fact, they are hypoallergenic and safe for daily wear.
Ethical Concerns
Myth: Ethical concerns may arise due to the lack of regulation in the lab-grown diamond industry.
Reality: While the lab-grown diamond industry is less regulated than the natural diamond industry, many reputable brands, including Que by M, are committed to ethical and transparent practices in accordance with global policies.
Radiation
Myth: There is a misconception that they may be radioactive.
Reality: Lab-grown diamonds do not contain radiation. They are produced in controlled environments; residual radiation is negligible and well below safe levels.
Conclusion
We hope we’ve cleared up the confusion around lab-grown diamonds. You receive a certification of authenticity and a grading report just as when you buy mined diamonds. It is impossible to tell the difference with the naked eye; only an expert gemmologist can discern between them because the signs are very subtle. There is a growing market for reselling lab-grown diamonds, so any claims about them losing value hold no water. Rest assured that lab-grown diamonds are a sparkling and lasting investment. And when you’re spending about 50% lower in procuring them, you understand why they define ‘affordable luxury.’