Introduction

Hey there! This is James Marsh, proud owner of Blackwell Jewellers. Over the past three decades, I've had the privilege of crafting beautiful jewellery and observing significant changes in the industry.

Recently, lab-grown diamonds have shaken things up significantly; admittedly, I was initially apprehensive about these marvels, sometimes regarding them as nothing but smoke and mirrors with no real substance. However, my opinion changed as piled evidence emerged highlighting just how authentic, stunning, magical they were. This transformation inspired me to produce this guide.

My purpose is to shine a light on the captivating world of lab-created diamonds and enable you to make an informed decision regarding your next diamond purchase. Blackwell Jewellers stocks the largest collection of lab-created diamonds in Kent.

We acquire these valuable gems while they are still rough and order them wholesale - allowing us decreased costs which we pass onto our cherished clients. As a result, please know that I am here beside you every step along this journey so that together we may uncover all its wonders.

Enjoy delving into this subject matter - And I look forward with eagerness for guiding you throughout your quest towards finding that perfect diamond.

 Sincerely, James.

If I were to place a lab-grown diamond and a mined diamond side by side, could you tell them apart?

The truth is, most people can't. I can't, even expert gemmologists can't discern the difference without the use of specialised testing equipment. This is because lab-grown diamonds and natural diamonds are, in essence, the same.

You see, diamonds, whether mined or lab-grown, are composed of a single element: carbon. They possess the same crystal structure, the same hardness, the same refractive index, and the same density. They sparkle just as brilliantly and are just as durable. In every meaningful sense, lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds.

The process used to create lab-grown diamonds, known as High-Pressure High-Temperature (HPHT) or Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD), replicates the natural conditions under which diamonds form. HPHT uses a carbon 'seed' placed in a press capable of producing extreme pressure and temperature, replicating the conditions deep within the earth's mantle.

Similarly, CVD employs a hydrocarbon gas mixture in a vacuum chamber, which is then subjected to microwave radiation, causing the gases to break down and the carbon atoms to adhere to the diamond 'seed', allowing the diamond to grow.

So, if you've been harbouring any doubts about the authenticity of lab-grown diamonds, it's time to let them go. They share the same mesmerising sparkle, the same captivating beauty, and the same enduring strength as natural diamonds. They are not fakes, imitations, or simulants.

"They are diamonds - real, genuine diamonds."

This also means they share the same grading system. Just like natural diamonds, lab-grown diamonds are assessed based on the Four Cs: carat, cut, colour, and clarity. So, when you purchase a lab-grown diamond, you can be confident in its quality and value.

In conclusion, lab-grown diamonds aren't just a viable alternative to mined diamonds - they're identical in all the ways that matter. So, the next time you find yourself admiring a diamond, remember: it could very well be a lab-grown gem, proving that beauty and origin are not mutually exclusive.

Now, let's delve into the second fact: lab-grown diamonds are significantly kinder to our planet than their mined counterparts. If you're an eco-conscious consumer, this will likely resonate deeply with you.

The diamond mining process is far from gentle on our environment. It requires vast amounts of resources, including water and fossil fuels. It also leads to soil erosion, deforestation, and the displacement of local communities.

Moreover, the process of extracting diamonds from the earth's crust involves moving and processing large volumes of earth, which can lead to habitat destruction, biodiversity loss, and significant carbon emissions.

On the other hand, lab-grown diamonds present a much greener alternative. According to a report from the Diamond Producers Association, the production of a carat of lab-grown diamond results in fewer carbon emissions than mining a carat of diamond, even when renewable energy is not used. When renewable energy is used, the emissions drop dramatically.

Additionally, the process of growing diamonds in a lab does not contribute to soil erosion, deforestation, or habitat destruction.

It does not displace communities or threaten biodiversity. It's a controlled process that takes place indoors, without the need to disrupt ecosystems or exploit natural resources.

Furthermore, because lab-grown diamonds can be produced wherever there's a suitable facility, they can be grown near to the markets where they will be sold, reducing the carbon footprint associated with transporting mined diamonds from remote areas to consumer markets.

Of course, like any manufacturing process, growing diamonds in a lab does have an environmental impact. It requires energy, and depending on how that energy is produced, there can be associated carbon emissions.

However, many lab-grown diamond producers are taking steps to minimise their environmental impact, such as using renewable energy sources and offsetting their emissions.

Therefore, when you choose a lab-grown diamond, you're not only choosing a beautiful gem, but also a more sustainable choice. You're reducing demand for mined diamonds, thereby helping to decrease the environmental damage associated with diamond mining.

"It's a choice that allows you to enjoy the beauty and luxury of a diamond, without the environmental guilt."

Now, isn't that a brilliant choice?

Stepping into the third fact, we're going to address a serious and deeply troubling issue associated with the diamond industry: conflict diamonds, also known as 'blood diamonds'.

These are diamonds mined in war zones, sold to finance armed conflict against governments. This illicit trade has been linked to human rights abuses, child labour, environmental degradation, and violence.

Natural diamonds, while beautiful, have a complex and often murky history. Despite the implementation of the Kimberley Process (an international certification scheme to prevent trade in conflict diamonds), illicit diamonds still find their way into the market, and it's challenging to ensure every natural diamond is ethically sourced.

This is where lab-grown diamonds shine in their true splendour. They offer a clear and transparent solution to these ethical dilemmas. Since lab-grown diamonds are created in controlled laboratory environments, they have a known origin. They're conflict-free, not associated with any form of violence or exploitation.

There's no large-scale mining operation displacing communities or harming local ecosystems. The working conditions in these labs are regulated, safe, and do not involve child labour or forced labour.

Choosing lab-grown diamonds means you're not indirectly contributing to human suffering or environmental harm. Instead, you're supporting an industry that values ethical practices and social responsibility.

And let's not forget, lab-grown diamonds are identical to mined diamonds in every way, except their origin. So, you're not compromising on quality, beauty or value.

"You're simply making a more ethical choice, one that aligns with your values and conscience."

So, if you've ever felt uneasy about the potential ethical issues surrounding your diamond's journey from mine to market, lab-grown diamonds offer a bright, guilt-free alternative.

And that's a fact that makes these sparkling marvels even more appealing, don't you think?

Stepping onto fact number four, let's discuss something that's undeniably a massive advantage of lab-grown diamonds: their affordability. Diamonds, while stunning, are notoriously expensive.

They've long been associated with luxury and extravagance, often carrying a price tag that can make your eyes water.

But here's the game-changer: lab-grown diamonds offer the same beauty, quality, and durability at a fraction of the cost.

You see, the process of creating a diamond in a lab is more efficient than the millions of years it takes for them to form naturally. This efficiency translates into lower production costs, savings which are often passed on to you, the consumer.

On average, lab-grown diamonds are between 20% to 40% less expensive than mined diamonds of similar size and quality. This significant price difference opens up new possibilities, allowing you to either save money or opt for a larger, more impressive gem for the same budget.

Think about it. You could choose a lab-grown diamond and save the extra cash for a rainy day, or perhaps use it to upgrade your choice of metal for the setting. Or, you could go all out and get a larger diamond or a piece with more diamonds.

Imagine getting a one-carat lab-grown diamond for the same price as a half-carat mined diamond, or a spectacular halo setting instead of a simple solitaire.

It's also worth noting that the lower price doesn't mean lower quality. Lab-grown diamonds are still real diamonds, remember?

They're graded and certified just like mined diamonds, using the same criteria.

"So, you're not compromising on quality, only on cost."

In conclusion, choosing a lab-grown diamond is a savvy move. It's a choice that delivers exceptional value for money, making the joy and luxury of owning a real diamond more accessible.

So, whether you're looking to pop the question, celebrate a milestone, or just treat yourself, lab-grown diamonds offer a stunningly affordable option. Isn't that a brilliant fact to know?

Moving into fact number five, let's consider the variety and availability of lab-grown diamonds. As you may already know, natural diamonds come in a range of colours, from colourless to varying hues of yellow and brown, and even more rare colours like blue and green.

The colour of a diamond depends on the types of impurities that were present in the carbon as the diamond was forming. The rarest, and often most expensive, natural diamonds are the fancy coloured diamonds, which can come in hues of blue, green, pink, and even red.

Now, imagine having access to this plethora of colours and more, but at a fraction of the cost. That's exactly what lab-grown diamonds offer. Because scientists can control the conditions in which the diamonds grow, they can introduce different elements to create a variety of colours.

For instance, adding boron to the process creates beautiful blue diamonds, while nitrogen gives rise to stunning yellow and orange diamonds.

What's more, while it's incredibly rare to find a flawless or internally flawless natural diamond, it's much more common to find lab-grown diamonds with these perfect grades. This is because the lab environment can be controlled to minimise the presence of impurities and inclusions that cause flaws in natural diamonds.

On top of this, the supply of lab-grown diamonds isn't limited by the availability of diamond mines or the rate at which diamonds form naturally. This means that there's a greater supply of lab-grown diamonds, which also contributes to their lower price compared to natural diamonds.

"In essence, lab-grown diamonds offer a rainbow of choices for discerning buyers."

Whether you're looking for a colourless diamond with perfect clarity, a rare blue or pink diamond, or a diamond with a unique shape or cut, there's a lab-grown diamond for you.

So, if you're someone who values variety and availability in your jewellery options, lab-grown diamonds present a cornucopia of stunning choices. Quite a colourful fact, wouldn't you agree?

Fact number six takes us into the realm of environmental impact, a topic that's increasingly important in our day-to-day lives. We're becoming more conscious of our choices and their effects on our planet, and rightly so.

This is where lab-grown diamonds again step up to the mark, providing an environmentally friendly alternative to mined diamonds.

The process of mining natural diamonds is invasive and destructive. It requires the removal of massive amounts of earth, disturbing natural habitats, and often leading to soil erosion and deforestation. In contrast, the production of lab-grown diamonds has a significantly smaller environmental footprint.

To put things in perspective, a report by the Diamond Producers Association indicates that the carbon footprint of a 1-carat polished natural diamond is 108kg of CO2.

In contrast, a lab-grown diamond of the same size produces around 18kg of CO2. This comparison reflects a significant reduction in carbon emissions when opting for a lab-grown diamond.

Moreover, the creation of lab-grown diamonds doesn't involve water pollution, a significant issue with diamond mining. Mines often use chemicals during the extraction process, which can seep into the groundwater and contaminate local water sources.

On the other hand, the production of lab-grown diamonds doesn't use such harmful substances, hence protecting water quality.

It's also note worthy that labs producing these diamonds are often powered by renewable energy sources, adding another tick to the 'green' checklist. While it's true that energy is used in the creation process of lab-grown diamonds, the overall environmental impact is much less than that of mined diamonds.

So, by choosing a lab-grown diamond, you're not just making a choice for your pocket or aesthetic preferences; you're also making a choice for the planet.

You're supporting a more sustainable way of producing diamonds, which aligns with a growing desire for conscious consumerism. Now, isn't that an illuminating fact that adds another facet to the appeal of lab-grown diamonds

On to fact number seven, we now delve into the realm of ethical considerations – a dimension where lab-grown diamonds truly shine. The diamond industry, unfortunately, has a somewhat troubled past.

Natural diamond mining has been associated with numerous ethical concerns, including poor working conditions, exploitation of workers, and even the financing of armed conflict - these so-called 'blood diamonds' or 'conflict diamonds' have cast a long shadow over the industry.

However, with lab-grown diamonds, these ethical concerns are mitigated. The process of creating a lab-grown diamond is carried out in a controlled environment, often in high-tech facilities that comply with labour laws and provide safe working conditions for their employees.

"The chances of a lab-grown diamond being a 'conflict diamond' are virtually zero."

Moreover, lab-grown diamonds are traceable. From creation to the final product, each step of the process is monitored and recorded. This means that you can know exactly where your diamond came from, who created it, and the exact process it went through to get to you.

This level of transparency is often lacking in the mined diamond industry, where a diamond's journey from mine to market can be complex and murky.

Choosing a lab-grown diamond also means you're not contributing to the displacement of communities or the exploitation of workers, which can occur in diamond-rich areas. Instead, you're supporting an industry that values human rights, fair pay, and safe working conditions.

In essence, by opting for a lab-grown diamond, you're making a responsible choice. You're choosing a diamond that's not only beautiful and high-quality but also ethically sourced.

And in a world where consumers are becoming more conscious about their purchases, this is an aspect of lab-grown diamonds that can't be ignored. Now isn't that a brilliant fact that makes lab-grown diamonds shine even brighter?

Our eighth fact revolves around the remarkable technological advancements that make the creation of lab-grown diamonds possible. The science behind these dazzling gems is truly fascinating, and a testament to human innovation.

Lab-grown diamonds are produced using one of two methods: High Pressure-High Temperature (HPHT) or Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD). Both methods mimic the natural conditions under which diamonds form in the Earth's mantle, but they do so in a controlled laboratory environment.

The HPHT method replicates the natural conditions of heat and pressure that form diamonds. It involves placing a diamond seed (a tiny sliver of diamond) in a carbon-rich environment, then subjecting it to temperatures of about 1400°C and pressures of 5.5 Gigapascals. This process can transform the diamond seed into a larger, rough diamond in just a few days to a week.

The CVD method, on the other hand, involves placing a diamond seed in a sealed chamber and filling the chamber with a carbon-rich gas, such as methane. The chamber is heated to a temperature of about 800°C, which causes the gas to ionise into plasma.

The plasma breaks down the molecules in the gas, allowing the carbon atoms to adhere to the diamond seed and gradually build up layers, forming a diamond crystal over a few weeks.

What's even more fascinating is that these techniques have been refined and improved over time, leading to better quality diamonds and faster production times. The technological advancements in this field also allow for more control over the diamond's properties, such as its colour and clarity.

In essence, the creation of lab-grown diamonds is a remarkable feat of human ingenuity. It's a testament to our ability to harness the powers of nature, replicate them, and even improve upon them.

And the result?

Beautiful, high-quality diamonds that are every bit as real as their natural counterparts, but with added benefits of being more ethical, more sustainable, and more affordable. Now isn't that a gem of a fact

As our final fact, it's crucial to understand the rapidly growing market acceptance of lab-grown diamonds. Despite being a relatively new player in the diamond industry, lab-grown diamonds have quickly gained popularity and acceptance among consumers worldwide, signalling a seismic shift in the market.

One reason for this swift acceptance is the millennial and Gen Z consumer. With their focus on sustainability and ethical sourcing, these generations have been quick to embrace lab-grown diamonds. They see these diamonds as a perfect blend of luxury and responsibility, aligning with their values and their desire to make conscious purchases.

Moreover, the diamond industry itself is recognizing the significance of lab-grown diamonds. Major jewellery retailers, including some of the most "prestigious names in the industry, have started offering

lab-grown diamonds" alongside their natural counterparts. This inclusion is a clear indication of the growing acceptance and legitimization of lab-grown diamonds within the industry.

Even traditional diamond grading laboratories, such as the International Gemologist Institute (IGI), now provide grading reports for lab-grown diamonds, further enhancing their credibility and appeal. These reports assure consumers of the quality of their lab-grown diamond, just like they would with a mined diamond.

Furthermore, lab-grown diamonds are increasingly being chosen for engagement rings, a domain that was once the exclusive territory of natural diamonds. This trend signifies a broader acceptance of these diamonds as not just a budget-friendly alternative, but as a desirable choice in their own right.

To sum up, the rapidly growing market acceptance of lab-grown diamonds is a testament to their value, appeal, and future potential. It reflects the shifting perceptions of consumers and the industry towards these diamonds.

And as technology continues to advance, and as the push for ethical and sustainable choices grows stronger, the popularity of lab-grown diamonds is only set to rise.

Now, isn't that a truly sparkling finale to our list of shocking facts?

Well, what a journey we've embarked upon, my fellow gem enthusiasts! We've delved deep beneath the surface, not of the Earth, but of the intriguing world of lab-grown diamonds, and emerged with a treasure chest of knowledge.

As we near the end of this enlightening exploration, it's time to take a moment, to reflect on what we've discovered, and to ask ourselves: "Why wouldn't we choose lab-grown diamonds?"

Think about it. Lab-grown diamonds offer us the chance to indulge in luxury without compromising our values or our wallets.

They're identical to natural diamonds, boasting the same physical, chemical, and optical properties. If a diamond is forever, then a lab-grown diamond is too, equally capable of signifying enduring love, commitment, or personal achievement.

And let's not forget about the environmental and ethical advantage. With lab-grown diamonds, we get to sidestep the environmental degradation and the ethical concerns associated with mining. Instead, we're supporting an industry that respects our planet and its inhabitants, aligning our love for all things sparkly with our love for Mother Earth and her people.

The technological marvel behind these diamonds is nothing short of a testament to human ingenuity. We've managed to mimic and accelerate a process that takes nature billions of years, all in the space of a few weeks.

And the result? Diamonds that are not only as real as their natural counterparts but also more controllable in terms of their qualities.

Then there's the sheer fact that the diamond industry, known for its steadfast traditions, is embracing lab-grown diamonds. Major retailers, grading laboratories, and even consumers are not just accepting these diamonds but celebrating them for their brilliance, affordability, and ethical provenance.

By choosing lab-grown diamonds, we're not only making a responsible choice, but we're also part of a broader movement towards sustainability and ethical consumption in the luxury market. And that, dear readers, is a choice that sparkles just as brightly as the diamonds themselves.

The future is bright, and it's sparkling with lab-grown diamonds. So, whether you're planning a proposal, celebrating a milestone, or simply treating yourself, why not choose a diamond that's not only beautiful but also kind to our planet and its people?

I truly hope that this guide, "9 Shocking Facts About Lab Grown Diamonds That Will Make You Rethink Your Choices", has been illuminating.

And remember, if you're ever in Kent and in need of a diamond, lab-grown or otherwise, Blackwell Jewellers is the place to go. As the biggest stockist of lab-grown diamonds in Kent, we're ready to help you find your perfect gem.

Feel free to reach out to me personally at jamesmarsh@blackwelljewellers.co.uk or visit www.blackwelljewellers.co.uk.

"Let's continue this sparkling journey together!"

Yours in sparkles,

James Marsh,

Owner of Blackwell Jewellers and your guide in the glittering world of diamonds.