Natural vs Lab-Grown Diamonds
The comparison between natural diamonds and lab-grown diamonds ultimately depends on personal preference. Each type of diamond has its unique advantages and disadvantages. Natural diamonds are a limited resource, often viewed as a symbol of status, and they typically carry a higher perceived value. On the other hand, lab-grown diamonds are generally more affordable, and their origin and production process are fully transparent.
Natural Diamonds
Natural diamonds are formed deep within the Earth under extreme pressure and high temperatures, dating back as far as three billion years. Volcanic activity brought these diamonds to the surface, depositing them in a type of volcanic rock formation known as kimberlite pipes, where they remained until they could be mined. However, only about 5 per cent of kimberlite pipes contain enough diamonds to make mining economically viable.
Diamonds are located in particular areas globally, with major production coming from countries like Botswana, Canada, Russia, and various nations in Africa. To safeguard the communities engaged in natural diamond mining, there are strict regulations, including the Kimberley Process.
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The formation process of a mineral plays a crucial role in determining its identity. Diamonds are created under high temperatures and pressures that occur only at specific depths—approximately 100 miles beneath the Earth's surface.
Diamonds have an isometric crystal structure, meaning that the carbon atoms are bonded uniformly in all directions. In contrast, graphite also consists solely of carbon, but its formation and crystal structure differ significantly from those of diamond.
As a result, graphite is soft enough to be used for writing, while diamonds are extremely hard and can only be scratched by another diamond.
Lab-Grown Diamonds
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Laboratory-grown diamonds have the same chemical, optical, and physical properties, as well as the same crystal structure, as natural diamonds. Both types are composed of tightly bonded carbon atoms, which means they respond to light in the same way and have similar hardness. The primary difference between laboratory-grown diamonds and natural diamonds is their origin.
Lab-grown diamonds are produced in a controlled environment, which helps eliminate many of the ethical and environmental concerns associated with traditional diamond mining. However, despite advancements in technology, producing lab-grown diamonds still requires a significant amount of energy.
Lab-grown diamonds are produced using two primary methods, as outlined by the Gemmological Institute of America (GIA), which has been researching laboratory-grown diamonds for over 30 years.
The first method is called High Pressure, High Temperature (HPHT). This process replicates the extreme pressure and temperature conditions found deep within the Earth, where natural diamonds are formed. As a result, HPHT diamonds exhibit a distinct crystal shape characteristic of laboratory-grown diamonds.
The second method is known as Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD). This technique involves breaking down molecules from a carbon-rich gas, such as methane, into individual carbon and hydrogen atoms. These atoms are then deposited onto diamond seeds, creating a square-shaped, tabular diamond crystal.
Pragnell Diamonds
At Pragnell, we exclusively use natural diamonds and have built trusted relationships with our diamond cutters and suppliers. We offer a diverse range of options in terms of age, quality, and diamond shape to suit our customers' preferences. Just as art and music can be interpreted in different ways, each diamond possesses a unique beauty that is tailored to its wearer. While some people prioritise brilliance, others may appreciate different characteristics.
Having a member of the Pragnell family select our diamonds ensures that generations of experience are applied in identifying their unique qualities. Our principal buying team, trained by renowned stone merchants worldwide, is highly skilled in visually analysing diamonds due to their extensive experience with rare materials.
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