Discover ELEMENT Laboratory Grown Diamonds

What are Lab-Grown diamonds?

Lab-grown diamonds, also known as synthetic diamonds or laboratory-created diamonds, are diamonds that are created in a controlled laboratory environment rather than being mined from the Earth. The conditions in nature that produce diamonds are recreated in a controlled laboratory environment. These diamonds have the same chemical, physical, and optical properties as naturally formed diamonds. They are formed by replicating the natural process of diamond crystallisation, using high-pressure, high-temperature (HPHT) or chemical vapour deposition (CVD) methods. The result is a genuine diamond that has the same chemical composition, sparkle, and brilliance as diamonds.

It is important to note that laboratory diamonds are indistinguishable from natural diamonds to the naked eye.

How Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Made?

The process of creating lab-grown diamonds typically involves two main methods: High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD).

•HPHT Method: This technique mimics the high-pressure, high-temperature conditions found deep within the Earth. Carbon is subjected to intense pressure and temperature, resulting in the crystallisation of diamonds over time.

•CVD Method: In this process, a diamond seed is placed in a chamber filled with a carbon-rich gas. Through the application of extreme heat, the carbon atoms adhere to the seed and gradually build up, forming a diamond crystal.

Are Lab-Grown Diamonds real Diamonds?

The main distinction between lab-grown and natural diamonds is their origin. Lab-grown diamonds have the same chemical composition (carbon atoms arranged in a crystal lattice structure), physical properties (hardness, brilliance, and fire), and optical characteristics (sparkle and brilliance) as natural diamonds. Lab-grown diamonds are not diamond simulants or imitations; they are genuine diamonds. Lab-grown diamonds are created in a controlled laboratory environment, while natural diamonds are formed deep within the Earth's mantle over millions of years. In terms of appearance and durability, lab-grown diamonds are virtually identical to natural diamonds and are considered a more sustainable and cost-effective choice.

Why choose Lab-Grown Diamonds?

The choice between a laboratory diamond and natural diamond comes down to personal preference. The addition of laboratory diamonds gives rise to more choice and are becoming an increasingly popular choice for engagement rings, and other pieces of higher value jewellery. This is because, generally, the price of a laboratory diamond is lower than that of a natural diamond of a comparable grading, meaning you can pay less for the same grade of diamond. This is much due to lab diamonds being made in a fraction of the time of natural diamonds, enabling a higher supply of lab diamonds, allowing the lower price.

The environmental and sustainability aspects of laboratory diamonds can also make these more appealing than natural diamonds as they are not mined from the ground using heaving machinery.

What are Element Lab-Grown Diamonds?

Element Lab Diamonds is a collection exclusive to Pascoes. Stunningly curated, this collection is comprised of diamonds of EF (colour), VS (clarity) or better. Stones over 1/2ct come with an individual stone certificate from independent laboratories such as IGI (International Gemmological Institute).

All Element Laboratory Diamond items have been laser engraved with the Element Logo and ‘LGD’ (lab grown diamond). Our exclusive Element Lab Diamond collection has also been paired with either 10ct or 14ct gold (popularly in New Zealand, 9ct or 18ct gold is used).

How are Lab-Grown Diamonds graded?

Like naturally formed diamonds, no two stones are the same and laboratory diamonds will have the same variations and are still graded on the characteristics the four C’s (carat, clarity, colour, cut).