Natural diamonds are formed in the Earth’s mantle, about 150 kilometers below the surface. They require high temperatures (1,200 to 1,500 degrees Celsius) and high pressures (50 to 60 gigapascals) to form. Laboratory-grown diamonds, on the other hand, are created in a laboratory under high heat and pressure, by the crystallization of carbon atoms.
Key differences between laboratory-grown and natural diamonds
- Origin: Natural diamonds are formed deep within the Earth, while laboratory-grown diamonds are created in a laboratory.
- Chemical composition: Laboratory-grown and natural diamonds are chemically identical. They are both made up of pure carbon.
- Physical properties: Laboratory-grown and natural diamonds have the same physical properties. They both have a Mohs hardness of 10, making them the hardest natural substance. They are also both equally brittle.
- Price: Laboratory-grown diamonds are generally less expensive than natural diamonds. This is because the production of laboratory-grown diamonds is less expensive than the mining of natural diamonds.
- Value: Natural diamonds are generally more valuable than laboratory-grown diamonds. This is because natural diamonds are rarer.
Advantages of laboratory-grown diamonds:
- More affordable
- More sustainable
- More accessible
Disadvantages of laboratory-grown diamonds:
- Less rare
- Some people may view them as less valuable than natural diamonds
Advantages of natural diamonds:
- More rare
- Some people may view them as more valuable
Disadvantages of natural diamonds:
- More expensive
- Less sustainable
- Less accessible
Conclusion
Laboratory-grown and natural diamonds both have their own advantages and disadvantages. The best type of diamond for you will depend on your personal preferences and needs.
