Lab Diamonds

Formation: Lab-created diamonds, also known as synthetic or cultured diamonds, are made in controlled environments using advanced technology. They can be created using two methods: High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) or Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD). Both processes mimic the natural conditions under which diamonds form.

Characteristics:

1. Physical and Chemical Properties: Lab-created diamonds have the same physical and chemical properties as natural diamonds, making them virtually indistinguishable to the naked eye.
2. Inclusions: While lab diamonds can have inclusions, they may differ from those found in natural diamonds. They often contain metallic fluxes or growth patterns that can help identify their synthetic origin.
3. Color: Lab diamonds can be produced in a range of colors and can be created to meet specific color requirements.
4. Price: Generally, lab-created diamonds are less expensive than natural diamonds, often costing 20-40% less for similar quality.
5. Certification: Like natural diamonds, lab diamonds can also be certified by gemological labs, but the certification will indicate that they are lab-created.

Ethical Considerations: Lab-created diamonds are considered more ethical since they do not involve mining and its associated environmental impacts. They eliminate concerns about conflict diamonds.