Diamonds, much like graphite, are composed entirely of carbon. The carbon atoms in diamonds are arranged in a robust lattice structure, minimizing contamination and making diamonds the hardest known natural material.
The Origin of Diamond Colors
While colorless diamonds are often deemed the most valuable, diamonds come in diverse colors due to mineral contamination or lattice deformation. For instance, black diamonds result from graphite contamination, red diamonds from plastic deformation, purple from plastic deformation and hydrogen contamination, green from irradiation deformation, pink from plastic deformation, and brown, yellow, orange, and blue from nitrogen impurities.
When considering the composition of diamonds, carbon isn’t the sole element. Diamonds also require three additional crucial factors: pressure, heat, and time.
The Role of Heat, Pressure, & Time in Diamond Formation
Diamonds formed in the Earth’s mantle between 1 to 3 billion years ago under conditions of high heat and pressure. Volcanic eruptions or subduction zone movements bring these diamonds to the Earth’s surface. Additionally, asteroid impacts can also generate the extreme conditions necessary for diamond formation.
To form, diamonds need environments with temperatures of at least 752°F (400°C) and pressures of 434,113 psi (30 kilobars). The optimal conditions for diamond formation generally exist about 100 miles (160 kilometers) underground.
Lab-Grown or Synthetic Diamonds
Due to the high cost of natural diamonds, geologists have devised methods to produce lab-created and synthetic diamonds. In the 1950s, Swedish and American researchers succeeded in transforming graphite and molten iron into diamond, according to the American Museum of Natural History.
Understanding Lab or Man-Made Diamonds
Produced in laboratory conditions, man-made diamonds are created using a process that closely mimics the natural formation of diamonds, involving the application of intense heat and pressure to pure carbon. Visually indistinguishable from natural diamonds to the naked eye, lab-grown diamonds typically cost 15% to 30% less. When buying a natural diamond, it is essential to ensure certification due to the difficulty in distinguishing between lab-grown and natural diamonds.
Methods of Creating Lab Diamonds
Lab diamonds usually start with a natural or lab-grown diamond seed. Scientists replicate its physical, visual, and chemical attributes using two primary methods:
- High Pressure, High Temperature (HPHT)
- Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD)
Time Required to Grow Lab Diamonds
While mined diamonds need 1 to 3 million years to form, lab diamonds can grow within 2 to 6 weeks, thanks to advanced technology, making them quicker to bring to market.
Applications of Synthetic Diamonds in Modern Society
Besides being symbols of love and wealth, diamonds—the world’s hardest natural substance—find practical applications beyond fashion. According to the Natural Museum of History, diamonds conduct heat five times more efficiently than copper, can pass or block electrical currents, and endure extreme temperatures and chemical exposure. Sharpened diamonds are used in specialized drill bits for producing microchips and semiconductors. Given their scarcity, natural diamonds are less frequently used for industrial purposes compared to lab-grown diamonds, while simulated diamonds fit aesthetic demands regardless of their origin.
Defining Synthetic Diamonds
Synthetic diamonds may also refer to lab-created diamonds. However, it’s incorrect to label lab diamonds as synthetic if implying they are fake. “Simulated diamonds” is a more accurate term for fakes.
What are Simulated Diamonds?
These stones are designed to resemble diamonds, with examples including zirconia, moissanite, and rhinestones. From a gemologist’s perspective, simulated diamonds do not match the beauty, versatility, or longevity of lab-grown or natural diamonds.
Reasons to Purchase a Lab Diamond
**Guaranteed Ethical Origin:** Aside from technological uses, lab diamonds are favored by some jewelry buyers for their ethical origins. Natural diamonds have a history tainted by conflict and environmental impact, with mining causing giant holes. To avoid ethically dubious natural diamonds, some shoppers opt for man-made diamonds. Artful Bracelets commits to sourcing conflict-free diamonds, whether natural or lab-grown.
**More Budget-friendly:** Lab diamonds are 15% to 30% cheaper than natural ones, making them an attractive option for couples. Their lower cost comes from the fewer resources and shorter supply chain needed compared to mined diamonds.
