Lab-grown diamonds vs mined diamonds

Should I propose to my partner a diamond ring grown in the laboratory? Should one propose to their lover with a diamond that was produced in a laboratory? Which one is better in lab-grown diamonds vs mined diamonds?

People nowadays are looking for alternatives that look similar to that of the ‘real diamonds but are way affordable. There are many substitutes available in the marketplace. Let’s look at the different types of diamonds available:

● Lab-grown diamonds
These are gemstones that resemble actual diamonds and have the same properties/characteristics. These have the same properties as the diamonds and are the hardest to differentiate between lab-grown vs mined diamonds. The shelf life of these diamonds is very long, almost that of real/natural diamonds. These diamonds are also referred to as lab-grown diamonds or lab-created diamonds.

● Stimulants
Diamond stimulants are gemstones that resemble actual diamonds but differ chemically and physically. These lack the physicochemical qualities of diamonds, as well as the capacity to execute in the same manner. They also don’t possess much life compared to natural or lab-grown diamonds. Cubic zirconia, garnet, and sapphire are all popular stimulants.

● Mined Diamonds
Natural Diamonds are diamonds that are extracted from the core of the earth. These are the conventional diamonds we all know of. The difference in cost of lab-grown diamonds and mined diamonds: Assume you’re seeking the following features in a wedding band:

● 1 carat
● Cut: Round
Naturally Grown Diamonds would generally cost around $2000+ with the highest resale value. Diamond Simulants generally cost over $100+ with no resale value. And on the other hand, lab-grown diamonds are generally 30-40% cheaper than naturally acquired diamonds.

Are lab-grown diamonds real diamonds?

This has been a topic of debate for many years now, are lab-grown real diamonds? Yes, they are real diamonds. Not only are they having similar characteristics and features but look the same and are almost impossible to differentiate with bare eyes. Not to mention it is cost-efficient and environmentally conscious. Lab-grown diamonds are grown under the same characteristics. The only difference is that naturally sourced diamonds take millions and billions of years to form and on the other hand lab-grown diamonds are grown within months.

Let us now differentiate between naturally mined diamonds and lab-grown diamonds?

Lab-grown Diamonds are identical in composition to that of the mined diamonds. They have the same characteristics because they are produced under the same conditions as natural diamonds and are as durable as one. These diamonds are graded using the same metrics as the mined ones. Lab-grown diamonds are free from any conflicts and are 40% cheaper.

Mined diamonds on the other hand are unique and rare. Every piece has a story behind it and takes billions of years to form. These diamonds in general are mostly mined using violations of human rights and are not environment friendly. These diamonds have the highest resale value and are the conventional diamonds we all know about. In respect of sale price, none traditionally extracted nor lab generated gems compare to brand new crystals. It’s the same as driving a vehicle. But if you have an extremely unusual gem, you will have less money for your gem, whether it was made in a laboratory or obtained organically. Many other resource types give good yields if you’re wanting to spend. The only exception to this principle is if you do have access to a “clean chequebook” and can spend in extremely rare gems with a high resale. Here are some pros and cons of proposing with a Lab-grown diamonds diamond:

PROS
● Cost-Effective
● Environment Friendly
● Sourced from conflict-free areas
CONS
● Diamonds aren’t unique
● Very less resale value
● Your partner might prefer natural gems.

Could I ask out my girlfriend/boyfriend for marriage with a diamond that has been created in a laboratory?

The answer is Yes! You can. There is an underlying stigma around lab-grown diamonds being “fake”. There is no such thing as a counterfeit gemstone. And lab-grown diamonds aren’t “fake” diamonds; rather they are the closest to that of naturally sourced diamonds in all their properties and characteristics.

It is all dependent on the individual you are dating. Communicate openly about it and see what he/she thinks. They probably have their mind made up on which diamonds they would prefer. On the positive side, lab-grown diamonds are easily produced making them prone to
customisation according to your preferences.

The big question: Should I use a man-made diamond engagement ring to propose to my fiance?

It all relies on how much you and your spouse are satisfied with if you proposed with an organic or man-made wedding band. Generally, I consider that a band should just serve as a gesture of love and devotion, and so should not be prohibitively expensive. Rather than making impulsive decisions, it is best to start small with lab-grown diamonds and then move on to big natural diamonds if your spouse validates your thoughts. You can even stack your jewelry rings as the day progresses making them appear bigger. You could always increase as time passes on and your bond grows stronger.

Conclusion

It is totally ethical to propose to your significant other using a lab-grown diamond that has been made in a lab. These lab-grown diamonds are no less than naturally mined diamonds. Possessing the exact same physical, chemical and optical properties these man-made diamonds can be a way for you to give a bigger stone to your love at a reasonable rate. They are ethically made and are non-polluting giving it many plus points apart from being easily available in the market.