When considering the purchase of diamond jewelry, it is wise to understand the differences between a laboratory produced gem and a natural stone.
Previously, synthetic diamond production methods resulted in cubic zirconia, a cheap stone that is greatly derided by the jewelry industry. The latest technological advances, however, allow scientists to produce gem-quality stones in laboratories everywhere. Rather than taking millions of years, a lab created gem may be produced in a matter of days. The leading research and grading body in gemology, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), certifies some lab grown stones as genuine diamonds.
There are two basic ways that man-made gems are created. HPHT (high pressure high temperature) is a process that has been used for several decades. While this method does simulate the natural way that mother earth makes these precious stones, and physically, visually, and chemically they are almost exactly the same as those found in the earth, these synthetic stones can be identified by a trained gemologist using standard gem-testing equipment.
The newer process, called CVD (chemical vapor deposition), grows gems at low pressure and relatively low temperatures. It produces crystals that are not only suitable for faceting for jewelry purposes: they are also "purer" than those grown the HPHT way, and are more difficult to detect.
Many people purchase created gems in order to save money. However, the amount saved will vary based on the type of stone that is chosen. Color or "fancy" diamonds, which are quite rare in nature, are far more available via lab created gems. While this comparative abundance lowers the price as compared to natural stones, high quality man-made gems are certainly not nearly as inexpensive as cubic zirconia.
A growing number of environmentalists and advocates of social responsibility are openly declaring a preference for lab produced stones, similar to how some segments of the population prefer faux fur to hides of animals. In many cases, it is difficult to know the exact sourcing of a natural stone. This is problematic because gems mined in war zones to raise money for civil wars and terrorism, commonly referred to as "blood diamonds," comprise up to ten percent of the total supply. In addition, mining processes are often damaging to the environment. Purchasing lab created stones removes the environmental concerns as well as the war and terrorism concerns, and saves on cost at the same time.
If the authenticity of a stone is in question, there are some basic methods that can help distinguish natural from created stones. Lower price is one sign, and another is color. Most natural colored diamonds have colors that are less vivid and bright than synthetically produced gems. Also, most natural stones contain small mineral deposits called inclusions. These show up as dark spots under a jeweler's loupe. While flawless natural stones do exist, they are rare and very expensive. Thus, a lack of inclusions may be a sign that a stone is lab produced, but is not conclusive proof.
Jewelers who advertise "cultured" gems likely offer man-made stones. Similar to cultured pearls, this is a code word which means man has interfered with the natural process. Any reputable jeweler will be happy to inform customers as to which pieces contain lab created gems.
No matter if it is due to the reduced cost, social and environmental concerns, or simply the pleasure of having a vividly colored stone that would otherwise be very difficult to obtain, there are a lot of excellent reasons why an increasing number of individuals are buying and enjoying man-made diamond jewelry.
Previously, synthetic diamond production methods resulted in cubic zirconia, a cheap stone that is greatly derided by the jewelry industry. The latest technological advances, however, allow scientists to produce gem-quality stones in laboratories everywhere. Rather than taking millions of years, a lab created gem may be produced in a matter of days. The leading research and grading body in gemology, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), certifies some lab grown stones as genuine diamonds.
There are two basic ways that man-made gems are created. HPHT (high pressure high temperature) is a process that has been used for several decades. While this method does simulate the natural way that mother earth makes these precious stones, and physically, visually, and chemically they are almost exactly the same as those found in the earth, these synthetic stones can be identified by a trained gemologist using standard gem-testing equipment.
The newer process, called CVD (chemical vapor deposition), grows gems at low pressure and relatively low temperatures. It produces crystals that are not only suitable for faceting for jewelry purposes: they are also "purer" than those grown the HPHT way, and are more difficult to detect.
Many people purchase created gems in order to save money. However, the amount saved will vary based on the type of stone that is chosen. Color or "fancy" diamonds, which are quite rare in nature, are far more available via lab created gems. While this comparative abundance lowers the price as compared to natural stones, high quality man-made gems are certainly not nearly as inexpensive as cubic zirconia.
A growing number of environmentalists and advocates of social responsibility are openly declaring a preference for lab produced stones, similar to how some segments of the population prefer faux fur to hides of animals. In many cases, it is difficult to know the exact sourcing of a natural stone. This is problematic because gems mined in war zones to raise money for civil wars and terrorism, commonly referred to as "blood diamonds," comprise up to ten percent of the total supply. In addition, mining processes are often damaging to the environment. Purchasing lab created stones removes the environmental concerns as well as the war and terrorism concerns, and saves on cost at the same time.
If the authenticity of a stone is in question, there are some basic methods that can help distinguish natural from created stones. Lower price is one sign, and another is color. Most natural colored diamonds have colors that are less vivid and bright than synthetically produced gems. Also, most natural stones contain small mineral deposits called inclusions. These show up as dark spots under a jeweler's loupe. While flawless natural stones do exist, they are rare and very expensive. Thus, a lack of inclusions may be a sign that a stone is lab produced, but is not conclusive proof.
Jewelers who advertise "cultured" gems likely offer man-made stones. Similar to cultured pearls, this is a code word which means man has interfered with the natural process. Any reputable jeweler will be happy to inform customers as to which pieces contain lab created gems.
No matter if it is due to the reduced cost, social and environmental concerns, or simply the pleasure of having a vividly colored stone that would otherwise be very difficult to obtain, there are a lot of excellent reasons why an increasing number of individuals are buying and enjoying man-made diamond jewelry.
About the Author:
Looking for socially responsible diamonds that won't break the bank? JewelNet.com is the premiere producer of man-made diamonds, offering loose stones, bridal jewelry, pendants and earrings with certified stones in six vibrant colors. This company is the only eco-friendly diamond producer named by Earthshare. Visit the website for a free e-book on Diamond Savings. Powered by SEO 2.0 Services
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