Find LAB-GROWN DIAMONDS in Calgary
Book an AppointmentJOHN KING, CHIEF QUALITY OFFICER OF THE GEMOLOGICAL INSTITUTE OF AMERICA (GIA)
“THEY’RE BOTH DIAMONDS, THEY HAVE THE SAME CHEMICAL PROPERTIES, THE SAME PHYSICAL PROPERTIES.”
LAB-GROWN DIAMONDS VERSUS Mined Diamonds
Lab-grown diamonds and mined diamonds have identical chemical compositions, optical properties and physical properties. Indistinguishable without the aid of high-tech laboratory equipment, and independently tested to the same grading criteria as mined you can rest assured these cultured diamonds are the real deal. Environment conscious, our laboratory has taken every measure to reduce their carbon impact. Utilizing solar cells and modern technology our diamond laboratory has a zero net carbon impact.
The human element, the genius and skill of cultured diamonds is what makes this selection so special.
Our Loose diamonds are certified through The International Gemological Institute (IGI) and The Gemological Institute of America (GIA).
HOW ARE DIAMONDS CREATED IN THE LAB?
Diamonds are grown in the lab using a process known as Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD).
Scientists start by cutting a small slice of carbon known as a diamond seed which are then placed in a low-pressure chamber. Hydrogen and methane gases are injected into the chamber. High-power microwave energy is applied to heat the chamber to the same temperature as the outer core of the sun, this heat breaks down the atomic bonds in the gases and ignites a plasma ball. A cloud forms inside the chamber which releases the free carbon atoms, the atoms ‘rain’ down onto the diamond seeds to grow the diamond atom-by-atom. This method is similar to how snowfall collects on a table. A sizeable rough diamond is formed within four to six weeks. The rough diamond is then cut, polished and graded the same way a mined diamond is.
Image: Lab Grown diamonds before cutting and polishing
MINED DIAMONDS
The wonder of creation and ancient awe of diamonds is what makes mined diamonds so special.
CALGARY: HOW DO YOU KNOW YOU’RE BUYING A REAL Lab-Grown DIAMOND?
HOW MUCH DO Lab-Grown DIAMONDS COST?
Lab-grown diamonds cost approximately 30 – 40% less than their mined counterparts. The cost of lab-grown diamonds is still based off of the quality of the stone, the same as mined diamonds’ cost is determined. So a colourless, flawless lab-grown diamond will still cost more than a blemished stone of the same carat due to rarity, however, the lab-grown diamonds will cost significantly less than the mined equivalent.
Myth: Lab-Grown diamonds are not real diamonds.
Mined diamonds and lab-grown diamonds are both composed of 99.95% pure carbon. They share identical chemical, physical and optical properties.
“Manmade diamonds are diamonds” – Federal Trade Commission, August 2018.
Myth: Lab-Grown diamonds are identical.
Each diamond, regardless of origin has a unique fingerprint known as flaws. All gem-quality diamonds are graded on the same 4C characteristics (carat, colour, clarity, and cut) by an independent third-party institute.
Myth: Lab-Grown diamonds are cheap to make.
The process used to create lab-grown diamonds is very expensive. The equipment necessary to create the conditions in which to grow the diamonds costs tens of thousands to maintain, the process employed is the most advanced manufacturing process achieved by humankind and requires extreme precision. Even with this new technology, diamonds larger than one carat are rare.
Myth: Lab-Grown diamonds are the same as CZ or Moissanite.
Although all three gems appear the same, and it would be easy to believe this to be true. Lab-grown diamonds have the same chemical composition as mined diamonds whereas the others do not. Therefore, CZ and moissanite are not diamond but their own gems respectively.
Store Opening Hours:
• Monday - Friday 10:30-4:30pm
• Saturdays 11:00-3:00pm
• Sundays & Holidays - Closed
For Inquires, assistance or appointments outside of regular hours above, please call or book an appointment online.
