WHAT IS A NATURAL DIAMOND?
A diamond is a mineral created by nature from the pure element of carbon. Diamonds are arranged in a crystal shape from carbon atoms tightly bonding its structure, making diamonds the toughest gemstone on Earth.
Natural diamonds were fashioned over thousands of years ago and hundreds of miles beneath the Earth’s floor. They form under the rare conditions of extreme high temperatures and pressure in the Earth that cause the carbon atoms to crystalize. Ancient volcanoes deep within the Earth erupt, trapping the diamonds in the lava, and bringing them close to Earth's surface for us to discover.
As this is naturally occurring, every natural diamond is unique, much like a snowflake or fingerprint- no diamond is alike.
WHAT IS A LAB-GROWN DIAMOND?
A lab-grown diamond is a man-made gemstone that contains the same chemical and optical structures of natural diamonds, but whose origins and price vary substantially. Lab-grown diamonds are produced in laboratories in approximately 4 weeks through HPHT (high pressure high temperature) and CVD (chemical vapor deposition). These techniques artificially reflect natural situations determined inside the Earth, forcing carbon atoms into a crystal structure. The sustainably grown lab diamonds we offer on our site are produced in a facility here in the USA that operates on all wind and solar power... it doesn’t get much more eco-friendly than that! You can view our collection here which is constantly being updated with fresh lab diamonds!
ARE LAB-GROWN DIAMONDS MORE ETHICAL THAN NATURAL DIAMONDS?
The short answer is yes. Lab created diamonds are more eco-friendly in that they are produced in a controlled environment and have a very light carbon footprint, especially since ours are produced in a facility here in the USA powered by wind and solar. But, with that being said, the natural diamond suppliers we have cultivated relationships with over the past 20 years find the most ethically sourced natural diamonds possible. Natural diamonds still have the impact of mining the diamonds, but the international Kimberly Process laws creates a much better environment in the diamond industry for protecting human rights and bringing conflict free diamonds into the market place. Here at Melissa Tyson Designs, we only source diamonds from likeminded diamond dealers, hoping to keep bringing positive change into the world of fine jewelry!
WHAT IS THE VISUAL DIFFERENCE BETWEEN LAB-GROWN VS. NATURAL DIAMONDS?
While they will look the same to the untrained eye, lab-grown diamonds can only be identified by a certified gemologist. They are graded the same way as a naturally occurring diamond, so they will have differences in color, clarity and cut. Lab diamonds visually do look the same as their naturally grown counterparts. They are equally beautiful and sparkly gems, making both excellent diamonds to select.
SO WHICH DIAMOND SHOULD YOU CHOOSE?
Natural diamonds are authentic miracles of nature and created over thousands of years deep within the earth. They are full of history and wonder. They come with a higher price tag, but they will maintain their value for generations to come.
Lab diamonds are the new kid on the block. They have only been commercially produced and available to the public for the last 5 years. They are a much less expensive alternative to a natural diamond, which many customers love being able to get a larger diamond for a lower price tag. It is unsure, however, wether the lab diamonds will hold there value over time as we have seen significant price reductions in the marketplace due to more manufacturers producing them.
In deciding, the great thing is that no one will know but you! All in all, they are both beautiful options for your Custom Engagement Ring... the choice is yours!
Cheers to bringing your love story to life!