The jewellery industry has been embracing one of its most significant technological advances in modern times.
The creation of lab-grown diamonds. Grown under laboratory conditions from a natural diamond seed, Lab grown diamonds primary element is carbon combined with pressure, heat and time. They are molecularly identical to a naturally mined diamond and rank at the top of the internationally recognised Mohs scale for hardness. They also exude the incredible sparkle of a traditional diamond. See here, for more in depth information on the Four C’s of lab grown diamonds. In essence, lab grown diamonds have all of the components of a traditional diamond combined with a more sustainable approach and affordable price.
As human beings, we are programmed to ask questions on anything new that enters the markets. When it comes to lab grown diamonds many people as ‘how are they made?’. They go through a process called Chemical Vapour Deposition or CVD for short. This uses a thin slice of diamond seed, which is placed in a sealed chamber. This is heated to around 800 degrees Celsius and exposed to carbon-rich gases. The carbon begins to adhere to the diamond seed and crystallises. Another commonly asked question ask is ‘How are lab grown diamonds different to naturally mined diamonds?’. On a molecular and visual level, there is no difference between them. The main difference between them is the environmental impact of mining versus lab creation, the social implications and the difference in price.
A great physicist once said “We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used when we created them.”. We live in a progressive society where we look to develop alternative resources for long term environmental sustainability. This movement has been applied to and invested in by the jewellery industry. At Commins & Co, all engagement rings, dress rings, wedding rings and eternity rings are available in both lab grown and natural mined diamonds. As a company who prides itself on a progressive approach, they have seen a surge in popularity over the last twelve months with 25% of their diamond ring sales commissioned with the use of lab created diamonds. That is a monumental figure when you consider they have only been introduced to the market in recent year. This is due to the growing number of couples who are becoming more environmentally and socially conscious.
Finally, it is important to mention that lab grown diamonds are a more affordable option for the modern couple. In such times of uncertainty, the idea of purchasing a diamond ring were the only difference is the diamonds origins and saving on average 40% appeals to many consumers. Whether lab grown diamonds are for you or not, they are now a permanent fixture within the jewellery industry. And for those of you looking at lab grown diamonds, visit Commins & Co to view their amazing range of lab grown diamond engagement rings!
