When it comes to diamonds, strength is often a primary concern for those looking to make a sparkling investment or express their love with a piece of exquisite jewelry. The question that frequently arises is whether lab grown diamonds can hold their own in terms of durability against their natural, mined counterparts. In this blog, we will delve into the fascinating world of diamonds and explore why lab-grown diamonds are indeed as strong as mined diamonds. Whether you’re a diamond enthusiast or simply curious, read on to discover the remarkable qualities that make lab grown diamonds an attractive alternative.
The Mohs Scale
A Common Measure of Hardness One of the most widely used methods for assessing the hardness of minerals is the Mohs scale, named after German mineralogist Friedrich Mohs. This scale ranges from 1 (the softest) to 10 (the hardest), with diamonds being the hardest naturally occurring substance on Earth. Both lab-grown and mined diamonds are classified as a perfect 10 on the Mohs scale, indicating an exceptional level of hardness.
Chemical Composition
A Mirror Image What gives diamonds their exceptional hardness is their unique chemical composition, primarily consisting of carbon atoms arranged in a crystal lattice structure. Lab-grown diamonds replicate this composition flawlessly because they are real diamonds. In fact, the carbon atoms in lab-grown diamonds are indistinguishable from those in natural diamonds when examined at an atomic level because they are the same. This uniformity in chemical composition ensures that lab-grown diamonds possess the same remarkable strength as their mined counterparts.
Physical and Optical Characteristics
A Twinning of Perfection Beyond chemical composition, lab-grown diamonds share an astonishing resemblance to natural diamonds in terms of their physical and optical characteristics. They exhibit the same brilliance, fire, scintillation, and sparkle that make diamonds so captivating. These traits are a result of how light interacts with the diamond’s structure, and both lab-grown and mined diamonds excel in this regard. When it comes to aesthetics, it’s challenging to distinguish between the two types.
The Origin Distinction
The primary difference between lab-grown and mined diamonds lies in their origin. Natural diamonds are formed deep within the Earth’s mantle over billions of years under high-pressure and high-temperature conditions. They are then brought to the surface through volcanic eruptions. In contrast, lab-grown diamonds are created in a controlled laboratory environment, mimicking the natural diamond growth process but accelerated to a much shorter timescale. This distinction in origin does not affect their inherent strength or beauty.
Affordability
An Added Advantage One undeniable advantage of lab-grown diamonds is their affordability. While they possess all the strength and beauty of natural diamonds, they typically come with a lower price tag. The cost of mining, processing, and transporting natural diamonds contributes to their premium price. Lab-grown diamonds, on the other hand, are more cost-effective to produce, making them a budget-friendly choice for those looking to invest in stunning jewelry without breaking the bank.
Environmental Considerations
In addition to being a cost-effective alternative, lab grown diamonds also offer environmental benefits. The process of mining natural diamonds can be ecologically disruptive, involving land excavation, energy consumption, and water usage. Furthermore, diamond mining in some regions has been associated with human rights issues. Lab-grown diamonds, being created in a controlled environment, have a significantly lower environmental impact, making them a more sustainable choice for environmentally conscious consumers.
Certification and Transparency
To ensure that consumers can make informed choices, reputable jewelers like The Art of Jewels provide certification for both lab grown diamond and natural diamonds. These certificates detail the diamond’s characteristics, including its origin. This transparency allows buyers to make choices that align with their preferences and values.
In the world of diamonds, strength is a fundamental quality that defines their enduring beauty and desirability. Lab grown diamonds have proven themselves to be just as strong as their natural counterparts, with a perfect 10 rating on the Mohs scale, an identical chemical composition, and matching physical and optical characteristics. The only noticeable difference is their origin, with lab-grown diamonds being more affordable and environmentally friendly.
Ultimately, when choosing a lab grown diamond, you can be confident in the strength and everlasting beauty of your precious gem.
