How to Spot a Lab Grown Diamond?

A Comprehensive Guide to Identifying Lab Grown Diamonds

Lab grown diamonds have gained popularity in recent years as an ethical, sustainable, and affordable alternative to natural diamonds. Many people are now considering lab grown diamond engagement rings and other fine jewellery adorned with these stunning gemstones. At Ralph Jacobs Jewellers, we are committed to helping our customers make informed decisions about their jewellery purchases. In this informative blog post, we will delve into the key techniques and tools used to identify lab grown diamonds and distinguish them from their natural counterparts.

Table of Content

Understanding the Differences Between Lab Grown and Natural Diamonds
Methods for Identifying Lab Grown Diamonds
Tips for Ensuring You're Purchasing a Lab Grown Diamond

Understanding the Differences Between Lab Grown and Natural Diamonds

Lab grown diamonds, also known as lab created diamonds, cultured diamonds, or manmade diamonds, are diamonds produced in a controlled laboratory environment using cutting-edge technology. They share the same chemical, physical, and optical properties as natural diamonds, which form deep within the Earth's crust over millions of years. However, lab grown diamonds often have unique growth patterns and inclusions that can be used to differentiate them from natural diamonds.

Methods for Identifying Lab Grown Diamonds

1. Visual Inspection

While lab grown diamonds are virtually indistinguishable from natural diamonds to the naked eye, trained gemmologists and experienced professionals may be able to spot subtle differences in crystal structure, growth patterns, and inclusions. It is important to note that visual inspection alone is not always sufficient to accurately identify a lab grown diamond, and further testing may be required.

2. Diamond Testers

Traditional diamond testers measure a gemstone's thermal conductivity to determine whether it is a real diamond. However, lab grown diamonds possess the same thermal conductivity as natural diamonds, so these testers are generally unable to differentiate between the two. Advanced diamond testers that measure electrical conductivity can sometimes identify lab grown diamonds, as some lab grown diamonds exhibit slightly different electrical conductivity compared to natural diamonds.

3. Advanced Spectroscopy Devices

Raman spectroscopy and photoluminescence spectroscopy are advanced testing techniques used by gemmological laboratories to analyse a diamond's unique spectral signature. These methods can detect subtle differences in atomic structure and impurities, helping to identify whether a diamond is lab grown or natural. However, access to these devices is usually limited to professional gemmological laboratories and research institutions.

4. Growth Patterns and Inclusions

Lab grown diamonds often exhibit unique growth patterns and inclusions that can be used to differentiate them from natural diamonds. For example, HPHT lab grown diamonds may show distinct growth sector zoning or metallic inclusions, while CVD lab grown diamonds may exhibit a characteristic "strain pattern" when viewed under ultraviolet light.

5. Laser Inscriptions

Many lab grown diamonds are inscribed with microscopic laser markings indicating that they are lab created. These inscriptions are typically found on the girdle of the diamond and can be read using a jeweller’s loupe or a microscope. However, not all lab grown diamonds are inscribed, so the absence of an inscription does not necessarily indicate that a diamond is natural.

Tips for Ensuring You're Purchasing a Lab Grown Diamond

1. Ask for a Certificate:

When purchasing a lab grown diamond, always request a certificate from a reputable gemmological laboratory, such as the Gemmological Institute of America (GIA) or the International Gemmological Institute (IGI). A certificate provides detailed information about the diamond's origin, carat weight, and quality, and verifies that it is a genuine lab grown diamond.

2. Choose a Reputable Jeweller:

Partner with a reputable jeweller who specializes in lab grown diamonds, like Ralph Jacobs Jewellers. This ensures that you will receive expert guidance, high-quality diamonds, and exceptional craftsmanship.

3. Be Aware of Diamond Simulants:

Diamond simulants, such as cubic zirconia and moissanite, are gemstones that resemble diamonds but have different chemical, physical, and optical properties. These stones are not genuine lab grown diamonds and are typically far less valuable. Be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true, as they may be offering diamond simulants rather than real diamonds.

4. Request a Demonstration:

If you're uncertain about whether a diamond is lab grown or natural, ask your jeweller to demonstrate the various techniques and tools used to identify lab grown diamonds. This can provide valuable insight and help you feel more confident in your purchase.

5. Compare Diamonds Side-by-Side:

When possible, compare lab grown and natural diamonds side-by-side to familiarize yourself with the subtle differences in appearance, growth patterns, and inclusions. This can help you become more adept at spotting lab grown diamonds.

Conclusion

Identifying lab grown diamonds can be challenging due to their striking similarities to natural diamonds. However, understanding the key techniques and tools used to differentiate lab grown diamonds from their natural counterparts can provide valuable knowledge and help ensure that you are purchasing a genuine lab grown diamond engagement ring or other fine jewellery.

At Ralph Jacobs Jewellers, we are committed to offering our customers an exceptional selection of high-quality lab grown diamonds and expert guidance in choosing the perfect diamond. If you have any questions about lab grown diamonds or would like to explore our collection, please feel free to contact our knowledgeable team. We are always here to help you find the perfect symbol of your love and commitment.

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