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If you’re getting ready to ask the big question to your significant other, you likely have many questions about engagement ring shopping. With so many choices, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. There are endless shapes, sizes, and styles to browse, which can make it seem like a daunting task.
Before purchasing, do your research and consider what your significant other will love the most. You’ll also need to decide whether you want a mined or lab-grown diamond. Before moving forward, you’re likely wondering what makes VRAI lab-grown diamonds different from mined options.
The short answer? Not much! They have the same quality and shine that mined diamonds have, but they’re created more ethically and sustainably. Continue reading to discover the key differences between lab-grown diamonds and mined diamonds.
What Are Lab-Grown Diamonds?
If you’ve never heard of lab-grown diamonds, you might be asking yourself what exactly they are. Sometimes referred to as “created” or “man-made” diamonds, these stones are grown in a laboratory rather than under the Earth’s surface.
While they have a different growing process than mined diamonds, lab-grown diamonds have the same chemical composition and physical appearance as mined versions. Lab-grown diamonds form as carbon atoms under intense pressure and high temperatures. As they grow, they develop a crystalline lattice structure. They’re cut and polished to shine bright as soon as they’re fully grown.
With a straightforward growing process and identifiable origins, lab-grown diamonds have a guaranteed origin and provide an environmentally-friendly alternative to mined diamonds. With various clarity grades and shapes, there’s endless potential to find the perfect lab-grown engagement ring for your loved one.
Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Real?
Although lab-grown diamonds have different origins than mined ones, they’re still considered 100% real. In 2018, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) deemed both lab-grown and mined diamonds real. Gemologists and the average person won’t be able to tell whether a diamond is mined or lab-grown since the only difference is the origin! Therefore, no matter which option you choose, you know you’ll get an authentic diamond to help your partner shine.
Since lab-grown diamonds are as real as mined options, many people favor them because of ethical considerations. Lab-grown diamonds are an authentic, eco-conscious alternative without the harsh working conditions and environmental impact of mining. However, research and ask questions about where your diamond comes from, as some lab-grown diamonds use extensive fossil fuel energy. The more you know about your diamond, the more certain you’ll feel about your purchase!
Lab-Grown Diamonds vs. Mined Diamonds
Now that you know more about lab-grown diamonds, let’s discover how their color, clarity, price, and durability compare to mined diamonds. Remember, since they have the same chemical composition and physical appearance, the differences are not so significant!
COLOR AND CLARITY
The International Gemological Institute grades the color and clarity of lab-grown diamonds on the same scale as mined diamonds. Since they have the same grading scales, it signifies that there is no difference between the two.
In addition, since lab-grown diamonds like VRAI-created diamonds, grow similarly to mined diamonds regarding intense pressure and high temperatures, they can have similar flaws that mined diamonds often have. These flaws impact the sparkle and clarity of the diamond and can also cause price differences.
PRICE
As with all diamonds, the clearer and shinier it is, the more expensive it’ll likely be. However, mined diamonds are generally more costly than their lab-grown alternatives because of the more intense, laborious process and the finite nature of Earth’s gemstones.
Therefore, the same quality diamond can have a significantly different price depending on if it’s mined vs. lab-grown. Although the latter are often less expensive, it doesn’t mean they’re lower quality! They’ll shine just as bright, remain durable, and show your loved one how much they mean to you.
DURABILITY
As with many of the other characteristics, the durability of lab-grown and mined diamonds does not differ. According to the Mohs Hardness Scale, diamonds are the hardest mineral on Earth. As we’ve learned that lab-grown diamonds have the same chemical and physical properties as mined diamonds, they’re both equally durable.
Ready to Get the Perfect Diamond?
Now that you know more about the differences between lab-grown and mined diamonds, you should feel more confident about making the best choice for your engagement! Regardless of the diamond you choose, consider the shape and style that’ll make your significant other the happiest. After all, if the diamond fits their personality and shines, so will they!