Choosing between natural diamonds, lab grown diamonds, and diamond simulants can be a confusing task if you are not aware of the differences between them. Both natural and lab-created diamonds are real diamonds, but diamond simulants are not. If you are wondering which is the right option for you, then we list some of the important factors you have to know about these stones.
Natural Diamonds
As you might know, these precious stones are formed under the earth naturally and recovered through mining. It can take billions of years for natural diamonds to form, hence, they carry great value. These stones are rare and they are the most preferred precious stones for engagement rings.
Natural diamonds can be very costly too. Therefore, these precious stones might not be affordable for many people. Additionally, they come with various issues related to the mining of stones. Diamond mining is associated with many human rights violations and environmental problems. So a lot of people consider natural diamonds as an unethical option. However, they still remain the popular choice for engagement rings across the world.
Lab-Grown Diamonds
All the properties and features of lab-grown diamonds are similar to natural diamonds except for their origin. While natural diamonds are formed under the earth, lab-grown diamonds are artificially created inside a laboratory by recreating the natural environment that is required for the development of diamonds. Additionally, the formation of these man-made stones only takes a few weeks.
Man-made or synthetic diamonds are considered an ethical as well as a low-cost alternative to natural diamonds. They can be created based on demand, so their value can be lower than their natural versions, which made them less costly. If you want real diamonds for highly affordable rates, then lab-created diamonds can be a spectacular option for you.
Only a gemological expert can differentiate between these stones with the aid of powerful lenses and other equipment. So no one can tell that your engagement ring carries a lab-grown diamond.
Diamond Simulants
Even though diamond simulants can have an appearance similar to that of diamonds, they are nothing like real diamonds. Their chemical structure and physical properties are entirely different from that of real diamonds. Some of the commonly used diamond simulants are cubic zirconia and moissanite.
But these stones come at very cheaper rates in comparison with diamonds. So if you are on a tight budget, you can reciprocate the look of diamonds in your engagement ring with the aid of these stones.
Therefore, when choosing between natural diamonds, man-made diamonds, and diamond simulants, make sure to consider your budget and personal preferences.