LABORATORY GROWN

What are they and how are they made?

Laboratory-grown diamonds created in highly controlled laboratory environments using advanced technological processes that mimic the conditions under which natural diamonds are formed. These diamonds possess the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as natural diamonds, making them virtually indistinguishable to the naked eye.

They are made, through either:
1. High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT): This method attempts to replicate the natural environmental conditions, similar to what natural diamonds experience in the earth. Carbon is subjected to extremely high pressure and temperature, typically using a diamond seed to initiate crystal growth.

2. Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD): In this process, a diamond seed is placed in a vacuum chamber where carbon-rich gases, such as methane, are introduced. The gases are then ionized into plasma, and the carbon atoms accumulate on the seed, gradually forming a diamond crystal.

Seen here are a CVD (left), HPHT (middle) and natural diamond crystal (right) Both techniques result in quality gemstones that are identical to natural diamonds in terms of hardness, brilliance, and fire.
Image credit: GIA

How do you tell the difference?

Distinguishing between natural diamonds and laboratory-grown diamonds can be challenging because they have the same chemical composition, crystal structure, and physical properties. However, there are methods that can differentiate between the two:
Inclusions and growth patterns: Natural diamonds often contain inclusions, which are internal flaws formed during their growth process in the Earth's mantle. These inclusions can vary in type and appearance and are typically absent or different in laboratory-grown diamonds. Additionally, natural diamonds may exhibit growth patterns such as trigons, which are not commonly found in laboratory-grown diamonds.

Grading reports: Both natural and laboratory-grown diamonds are often accompanied by grading reports from reputable gemmological laboratories such as the Gemmological Institute of America (GIA) or the International Gemmological Institute (IGI). These reports provide detailed information about the diamond's characteristics, including its origin or production method. The grading report will state if a diamond is natural or laboratory-grown.

Advanced testing: Advanced gemmological testing methods, such as spectroscopy, florescence and phosphorescence or advanced imaging techniques can provide further insights into a diamond's origin. These methods are often used by gemmologists and laboratories to analyse and identify diamonds.

What disclosure is required?

In Australia, the sale of laboratory-grown diamonds is subject to various laws and regulations aimed at ensuring transparency and consumer protection. While specific requirements may vary depending on the state or territory, there are some general principles and guidelines that sellers must adhere to when selling laboratory-grown diamonds:

Australian Consumer Law (ACL): Under the ACL, businesses are required to provide accurate and clear information to consumers about the goods they are selling, including laboratory-grown diamonds. This includes disclosing material facts that may affect a consumer's decision to purchase the product.

Misleading and deceptive conduct: Sellers must not engage in misleading or deceptive conduct when selling laboratory-grown diamonds. This includes false or misleading representations about the origin, nature, or characteristics of the diamonds, as well as terminology.

Jewellery Industry Standards: Industry organisations such as CIBJO (the World Jewellery Confederation) and the Jewellers Association of Australia (JAA) has a Code of Conduct that outlines best practice for descriptions and selling laboratory-grown diamonds. All JAA jewellers must adhere to the Code of Conduct - you can find a JAA jeweller at jaa.com.au/find

Certification and grading: Providing certification from reputable gemmological laboratories, such as the Gemmological Institute of America (GIA) or the International Gemmological Institute (IGI), can help establish the authenticity and characteristics of laboratory-grown diamonds. Consumers should consider purchasing only laboratory-grown diamonds that come with a grading report.

Failure to disclose relevant information or engage in misleading conduct could result in legal consequences, including regulatory penalties or fines under consumer protection laws. Additionally, there can be significant long-term reputation and business credibility damage.

Are they ethical and eco-friendly?

Laboratory-grown diamonds are often considered more ethical than natural diamonds for reasons such as being conflict-free, having greater transparency, and improved labour conditions. It's essential to recognise that ethical considerations can vary depending on the specific practices of individual companies and the standards they adhere to. Additionally, the ethical landscape of the diamond industry is continually evolving, with efforts underway to improve transparency, sustainability, and ethical practices throughout the supply chain, both for natural and laboratory-grown diamonds.

Laboratory-grown diamonds are often perceived as environmentally friendlier compared to natural diamonds. Nonetheless, there is a lack of regulation governing this assertion. Whilst some studies suggest laboratory-grown diamonds are environmentally friendlier, they are not entirely without their environmental impacts. Companies that are transparent about their supply chain and use of renewable energy represent a small portion of laboratory-grown diamond producers.

What are they worth and who should I buy from?

The value of laboratory-grown diamonds can vary depending on several factors, including carat weight, colour, clarity, cut, and market demand. Laboratory-grown diamonds are priced lower than their natural counterparts.

To determine the worth of a laboratory-grown diamond, it's essential to consider its quality characteristics and compare it to similar stones in the market. Like natural diamonds, laboratory-grown diamonds are graded based on the 4Cs: carat weight, colour, clarity, and cut. These factors play a significant role in determining their value.

It's also important to note that the resale value of laboratory-grown diamonds may not be as high as that of natural diamonds. However, laboratory-grown are an attractive option for those seeking a more affordable alternative to natural diamonds.

When buying laboratory-grown diamonds in Australia, it's essential to choose a reputable and trustworthy seller who adheres to industry standards and provides transparent information about their products. Here are some tips to help you find a trustworthy seller:
Reputation: Look for sellers with a solid reputation in the industry. Consider factors such as how long they've been in business or their industry experience, customer reviews and testimonials, and whether they are affiliated with reputable industry organisations.

Certification: Choose a seller who provides certification from reputable gemmological laboratories, such as the Gemmological Institute of America (GIA) or the International Gemmological Institute (IGI). Certifications ensure laboratory-grown diamonds have been assessed by qualified gemmologist and meet accepted industry standards.

Industry Affiliations: Look for sellers who are affiliated with reputable industry organisations, such as the Jewellers Association of Australia (JAA), which adhere to strict ethical and professional standards. You can find a JAA jeweller at jaa.com.au/find

Personal recommendations: Seek recommendations from friends, family, or colleagues who have purchased laboratory-grown diamonds in Australia. Personal recommendations can provide valuable insights and help you find a trustworthy seller.

MEMORIAL DIAMONDS - real or scam?

Losing a love one is devastating and the grief can be overwhelming. This can be a time when people choose to incorporate the remains of their loved one into something sentimental they can wear and cherish forever. This is where memorial or cremation diamonds come into it. The idea sounds simple: using a loved one's ashes, immense heat is applied, added with pressure and you now have a diamond made from their remains, but this process is not possible.

Diamonds are comprised of carbon, and once a body is cremated there is no carbon left in the ashes. Hence, there is no way a diamond can be created from human ashes. What you are getting from companies offering this process is a laboratory-grown diamond, without the trace of your loved one. Not only that, you are probably paying more than you should for a laboratory-grown diamond.

If you want to incorporate your loved one's ashes into something special you can wear and keep close, consider a pendant that can hold ashes or resin products in which the ashes can be mixed in.

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The Jewellers Association of Australia acknowledge the Traditional Owners of the land where we work and live. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging.
We celebrate the stories, culture and traditions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders of all communities who also work and live on this land.