But is it real?

What is a real diamond?

Forget about “real” diamonds. That’s not how gem experts talk, or us jewellers, for that matter. If you want to sound like you know something, you need to ask the right questions.

Diamonds have been the stars of engagement rings and various jewellery items for ages. But as of recent, there is a new kid on the block: lab grown  diamonds. Some BIG names in the global Marketplace e.g. the Pandora jewellery brand, even De Beers (under their Lightbox brand) etc. are offering lab grown diamonds as alternative and so do many local jewellery & diamond experts. But how do you tell them apart from natural diamonds? And what does “real” even mean?

• A diamond is a diamond is a diamond. That’s the gemmologist’s motto. It means that a diamond has a unique recipe and structure that makes it super hard and sparkly. It’s all about carbon atoms bonding in a special way under extreme heat and pressure.
• This recipe and structure are the same for natural and lab grown diamonds. They are both diamonds, no matter where they come from. But they are not the same as other materials that pretend to be diamonds.
• So, when you go to a jeweller, don’t ask for a real diamond. Ask for a natural diamond, a lab grown diamond or a diamond simulant (or imitation). Very popular examples of the latter are Moissanite (more about this dazzling stone in another blog elsewhere under our News & Updates section) and of course, Cubic Zirconia and the like.
• Luckily for all of us, leading and most trusted international diamond grading laboratories – think GIA, IGI, EGL and so on – have agreed some time ago to clearly state on their diamond cutting reports (certificates) whether a diamond is a natural stone or lab grown.

The choice between natural and lab grown diamonds depends on various factors, such as budget, preference, and values:

• Some of our clients may prefer natural diamonds for their rarity, uniqueness, and history. Natural diamonds are formed over billions of years under high pressure and temperature deep in the earth, and they often contain natural imperfections or inclusions that make them distinctive. Natural diamonds are also considered more valuable for this very same reason.
• On the other hand, some may opt for lab grown diamonds for their affordability, ethicality, and environmental benefits. Lab grown diamonds are created in a factory, using high-tech methods and equipment. Lab grown diamonds have the same chemical, optical and physical properties as natural diamonds, but they cost far less and do not involve any mining or conflict issues. Lab grown diamonds may also appeal to those of you who want a more modern and innovative option.

So, that’s how you’ll impress your family & friends with your knowledge. You should also know that lab grown diamonds are sold in the jewellery trade at a fraction of the price of natural diamonds. By the way, lab grown diamonds are not “counterfeit” either, as you may have noticed in recent irresponsible and deliberately misleading social media posts! Be that as it may, get all the facts. You decide. But perhaps before you do, do pay us a visit for some real advice.

#settingtherecordstraight