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Natural diamonds and lab-grown diamonds each offer unique qualities and appeal to different preferences. Natural diamonds are formed over billions of years deep within the Earth's mantle through intense pressure and heat, resulting in their natural origin and rarity, which often adds to their allure and value. In contrast, lab-grown diamonds are created in controlled environments using advanced technological processes that replicate these natural conditions, typically within a few weeks.
While lab-grown diamonds share the same physical and chemical properties as natural diamonds, including brilliance and durability, they often come at a lower price point due to their more accessible production methods. Additionally, lab-grown diamonds offer an eco-friendly and ethical alternative to natural diamonds, appealing to consumers who are concerned about the environmental and social impacts of traditional diamond mining. Both natural diamonds and lab grown diamonds have their merits, and the choice between them ultimately depends on individual values, budget considerations, and personal preferences.
Natural diamonds are uniquely renowned for being the sole gemstone composed entirely of a single element: carbon. Their formation process is a testament to the immense forces and timescales at work beneath the Earth's surface. Diamonds are created under conditions of extreme temperature and pressure, typically found in the Earth's mantle, around 90 to 120 miles below the surface. These conditions require temperatures of about 1100-1200 degrees Celsius and pressures of approximately 725,000 pounds per square inch.
Over billions of years, carbon atoms bond in a unique crystal structure known as isometric or cubic. In this arrangement, each carbon atom is tetrahedrally bonded to four other carbon atoms, forming an incredibly strong and stable lattice. This uniform bonding in all directions is what gives diamonds their renowned hardness, making them one of the hardest natural substances known.
The unique isometric crystal structure not only contributes to the diamond's hardness but also to its remarkable optical properties. The uniformity of the carbon bonds allows diamonds to refract light in a way that produces their characteristic brilliance and fire, making them visually extraordinary and highly prized as gemstones.
Lab grown diamonds are crafted using advanced technologies such as Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD) or High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) methods, which simulate the natural conditions under which diamonds form.
In the CVD method, the process begins with a small 'seed' diamond, which serves as the foundation for growth. This seed is placed in a vacuum chamber, where a carbon-rich gas, often methane, is introduced. The chamber is then heated to extreme temperatures, typically around 800°C to 1200°C. Next, the gas is ionised into plasma using microwaves or other energy sources. This ionisation breaks down the molecular bonds in the gas, allowing carbon atoms to separate and settle on the diamond seed. Over time, these atoms accumulate, layer upon layer, gradually enlarging the diamond crystal.
Depending on the desired size and quality of the diamond, this growth process can take several weeks to several months. The result is a rough diamond that can be cut and polished just like a naturally mined diamond.
Lab grown diamonds have been in development since the 1950s, pioneered by General Electric in their Project Superpressure. Only in recent years have they become more accessible and affordable due to advancements in technology and manufacturing processes. Lab grown diamonds nowadays are a popular choice for environmentally conscious consumers seeking diamonds with sustainable origins and exceptional quality.
At Regal, our mission centres on designing and crafting extraordinary engagement rings, ensuring the custom experience is within reach for everyone. Love is at the core of our work, and we are dedicated to making this journey as special as possible.
We maintain an unbiased approach toward diamond sourcing, not owning or being affiliated with any specific mines or manufacturers. This unique business model allows us to access a global inventory of diamonds in real-time, purchasing a diamond only after understanding our customer's desires. This ensures we have no vested interest in promoting either natural or lab-grown diamonds over the other. We diligently search worldwide to find a diamond that perfectly matches your specifications.
Our inclusion of lab-grown diamonds in our offerings resulted from several key factors:
- The rapid rise in customer awareness and demand for lab-grown diamonds.
- The desire of many customers to achieve a specific aesthetic with a larger diamond, made affordable through lab-grown options.
- Significant advancements in the quality of lab-grown diamonds, now available in higher colours (D-H) and clarities (IF-VS) that meet our high standards.
- By offering both natural and lab-grown diamonds, we ensure that you have the flexibility to choose the perfect diamond that aligns with your vision and values.
We are your premier jeweller situated in the renowned Hatton Garden of London. Our expertise lies in crafting custom engagement rings, featuring both certified natural and lab-grown diamonds, wedding bands, and a diverse selection of luxury watches. At the core of Regal is a fervent dedication to delivering unparalleled customer service, coupled with impeccable craftsmanship and competitive pricing. Our commitment extends to understanding and fulfilling each client's unique desires and needs, ensuring the utmost care in every interaction.