When it comes to hunting for your perfect diamond, there are a lot of variables to keep in mind. From the cut, to the carat, to the clarity and the colour, and now another decision when it comes to picking your forever stone: Mined Diamonds or Lab Grown Diamonds?
When choosing your perfect diamond, deciding between lab-grown and mined diamonds is crucial. This guide delves into the key differences between these two types, focusing on aspects like environmental impact and value, and how to distinguish them to help you make an informed choice for your jewellery needs.
The key difference between Mined Diamonds and Lab Grown Diamonds can be traced back to where it’s from.
Mined Diamonds are formed over a long period of time, 3 billion years to be exact, naturally and deep within the Earth’s crust under very strict conditions such as high temperatures and immense pressure. This causes the carbon atoms to crystallise which then forms the much beloved with extreme hardness, unmatched brilliance and full of sentimental value - Diamonds.
Mined Diamonds are incredibly hard to get, as they’re buried deeply below the surface of the Earth. It’s only thanks to rare volcanic eruptions that bring these precious stones to the surface. Once the volcanic magma hardens, miners mine them and search for gem-quality diamonds.
In summary, Mined Diamonds are rare and valuable, formed naturally over billions of years making each one uniquely hard and brilliant, a priceless treasure.
Lab-grown diamonds, also known as synthetic or man-made diamonds, are created in controlled environments using advanced technological processes. Lab diamonds are a testament to scientific achievement and cater to the growing demand for environmentally conscious choices in jewellery. They offer the same brilliance, clarity, and beauty but with lesser environmental impact. This makes them an ideal choice for those who seek eco-friendly diamond alternatives.
Furthermore, Lab Diamonds presents an excellent value proposition. They are generally more affordable than their mined counterparts, making them an accessible luxury for a broader audience.
Lab grown diamonds are formed differently. Lab Diamonds imitate the process a Mined Diamond goes through deep beneath the Earth’s crust with High - Pressure Temperature (HPHT) or a Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD) process. Both methods require the use of a real diamond seed.
The HPHT method is the original method developed in the 50s to create lab grown diamonds, this method also is used to enhance the colour of Lab Diamonds to make them colourless. The CVD method is newer and developed in the 80s. This method imitates how diamonds are formed in interstellar gas clouds. It uses less pressure and smaller machines to form a diamond.
At ZCOVA, we exclusively source Diamond Type IIa, also called Diamond Type 2a, for our Ch’ya Lab Grown Diamonds collection.
This purity makes them highly prized for their clear, unblemished appearance, making them the most sought-after and valuable diamonds, especially for those seeking the highest quality in lab-grown options.
At ZCOVA, our focus on Diamond Type IIa ensures that our customers receive diamonds of unparalleled purity and aesthetic appeal. Learn more about Ch’ya by ZCOVA Lab Grown Diamond.
To the naked eye, these diamonds look exactly the same! There is no physical difference in the composition between a Lab Grown Diamond and a Mined Diamond. They both have the same hardness level, and beauty and are graded to the same standards. However, a certified jeweller is able to distinguish these two diamonds apart.
Aside from that, each diamond comes with a unique certificate number laser inscribed on it’s girdle. At ZCOVA, Ch’ya by ZCOVA Lab Grown Diamond comes with a IGI certificate, while our Mined Diamonds come with a GIA certificate that verifies their quality and authenticity.
Lab Grown Diamonds should also not be confused with Diamond Simulants. Diamond Simulants are a range of gemstones that appear like Diamonds but are not Diamonds. These Diamond Simulants include White Sapphire, White Topaz, Cubic Zirconia, and Moissanite.
This is a common question among buyers. While both types of diamonds exhibit similar physical properties and aesthetics, Lab Diamonds often come at a more accessible price point. At ZCOVA, every Mined or Lab-grown diamond comes with a unique certificate number from GIA, ensuring authenticity and quality.
For eco-conscious buyers, the debate of Lab Diamonds vs Mined Diamonds isn't just about cost but also involves ethical and sustainability considerations.
Let’s compare the two options, weighing their advantages and disadvantages, providing a balanced perspective to help you make an informed decision.
Pros of Lab Diamonds:
Eco-Friendly: Lab diamonds have a significantly lower environmental impact than Mined Diamonds, making them a sustainable choice.
Cost-Effective: Generally more affordable, Lab Diamonds offer high quality at a lower price point.
Ethical Sourcing: They guarantee conflict-free origins, appealing to ethically conscious consumers.
Cons of Lab Diamonds:
Perceived Value: They may have a lower resale value and lack the traditional appeal of Mined Diamonds.
Market Stability: As a newer option, the long-term market value of Lab Diamonds is still being established.
Pros of Mined Diamonds:
Timeless Appeal: Mined diamonds are often prized for their history and rarity.Mined diamonds are often prized for their history and rarity.
Investment Value: They typically hold or increase in value over time, making them a solid investment.
Unique Characteristics: Each mined diamond has unique characteristics, making them one-of-a-kind.
Cons of Mined Diamonds:
Environmental Impact: Mining diamonds can have significant ecological consequences.
Higher Cost: Mined diamonds are usually more expensive than Lab Diamonds.
Ethical Concerns: Issues like conflict between diamonds and labour practices are concerns in some mining areas.
In summary, while Lab Diamonds offer affordability and ethical assurance, Mined Diamonds are valued for their timeless appeal and uniqueness. Whether you prioritise environmental impact, cost, or traditional value, understanding these aspects is crucial in your diamond selection process.
At ZCOVA, we provide a wide range of choices for you, whether considering Lab Diamonds for engagement rings or exploring sustainable wedding jewellery options.
Choose from our Ch’ya Lab Grown Diamonds collection that combines innovation with sustainability, offering an eco-friendly and affordable alternative to Mined Diamonds. Our Lab Diamonds provide the same brilliance and beauty as natural diamonds, catering to various preferences and budgets.
Or shop our ethically sourced Mined Diamonds, LUMOS By ZCOVA, with dual certifications guaranteeing the ultimate brilliance.
Regardless if you choose a Mined Diamond or a Lab Grown Diamond, we provide the same great ZCOVA services including:
Personal Curator to help you pick the diamond of your choice
Choose any carat, cut, colour, clarity and shape you desire be it princess, pear or heart.
Free customization of your jewellery piece with our world-class jewellery designers.
Feel free to contact us for any questions and our curators will be more than happy to help you craft your perfect diamond jewellery.
The choice between mined and Lab Diamonds depends on personal preferences. Mined diamonds are often sought for their natural origin and rarity, while Lab Diamonds offer ethical and sustainable benefits. ZCOVA provides expert guidance to help you choose the best option based on your values and needs.
Lab-grown diamonds may have a lower resale value and lack the traditional appeal of Mined Diamonds. However, ZCOVA's Lab Diamonds are crafted with the same care and precision as mined ones, ensuring quality and brilliance in every piece.
Absolutely. Lab diamonds offer an ethical, environmentally friendly, cost-effective alternative to Mined Diamonds. At ZCOVA, our Lab Diamonds are of high quality, making them a valuable choice for those prioritising sustainability.
Mined diamonds are often perceived as more valuable due to their natural origin and rarity. ZCOVA's collection of Mined Diamonds includes a range of exquisite, high-quality options, perfect for those seeking investment pieces.
Look for certification and laser inscriptions to determine if a diamond is natural or lab-created. ZCOVA provides detailed certification for all diamonds, ensuring transparency and authenticity. Our experts can assist you in identifying the origin of your diamond with precision and expertise. Speak to our ZCOVA Curators today.
Enjoy our signature 1-on-1 personal consultation! The Diamond & Gemstone Buying Experience that is Rated 5 Stars by 900+ online reviews. Speak to our Curators online or visit a Galeria!
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