When it comes to purchasing a diamond we want to make sure our customers are informed and making the best choice possible for what they're looking for in that perfect stone and with all sorts of information out there, it can be a little confusing knowing what's-what in the diamond and gemstone world. So, allow me to be your diamond fairy godmother and guide you through the difference between natural diamonds, lab grown diamonds, and moissanites!
Natural Diamonds
When one thinks of diamonds, they are most likely thinking of natural diamonds. In fact, unless stated otherwise, the word diamond by itself signifies it is a natural diamond. But, what is a diamond and where do they come from? Let's take a moment to recall some grade school geology; billions of years ago, below the Earth's crust within the mantle (the layer just below the crust), diamonds were formed from intense heat and pressure within the Earth. As plates shift the diamonds are brought closer to the surface in a rock called Kimberlite. Of course though, not every diamond found in Kimberlite will make its way to a jewelry store. In fact only about 5% of diamonds found in Kimberlite are usable! Because of this diamonds are a finite resource, unless you want to wait another billion years for the Earth to make more. It's also because of this process that each diamond is unique, the inclusions and color will vary completely from stone to stone; like a snowflake.
We've been mining diamonds for little over a century, with modern mining practices starting in the 1870s. As with most histories, diamond mining hasn't always been ethical or safe. It is a common concern for customers to question if jewelers are selling "blood diamonds." I would like to assure everyone that we at Armentor's deal with only certified, ethically sourced stones that we can trace back to their origins. But, how can one know for sure? In 2003 the Kimberley Process was formed. It's a multi-step, cross country process of tracking diamonds from the moment they leave the ground to shining brightly in the displace case, making sure the stones are conflict-free and sourced properly. Because this process has been around for two decades now, nearly all diamonds in the trade are ones that went through this process and therefore, you can shop without worry!
It is because of this limited amount of diamonds that they are wonderful investment pieces. The diamond market is steady and growing everyday in value for the stones you might have. They make wonderful heirloom pieces and can be passed down from generation to generation. Plus, here at Armentor's we're happy to help you redesign some of those vintage pieces or reset grandma's diamond in a new pendant or ring so you can keep these items in your family for years to come!
Lab Diamonds
Laboratory (lab) made, or man-made diamonds, were first introduced in the 1950s, however it wouldn't be until the 1990s or early 2000s that they became more readily and commercially available. A lot of people seem to think lab diamonds are fake diamonds, but they are chemically diamonds. Laboratories recreate the environment found in Earth's mantle but in a controlled lab setting. The process takes about 28 days, during that time scientists monitor the environment and harvest the stones at just the right moment to ensure a beautiful color and clarity. Because these lab diamonds are made in such a perfect environment, they aren't as unique as natural diamonds. But, if you'd like a big, shiny stone at an affordable cost, lab diamonds are the way to go. Due to the way they are created, lab diamonds are more cost and budget friendly to those looking for a diamond, but not necessarily wanting to pay natural costs. But, unlike natural diamonds, the market value for labs are still unknown due to the fact they're still relatively new.
Another reason one might opt for a lab diamond compared to a natural one brings us back to the topic of ethical stones and the way they are sourced. Despite the Kimberley Process, if you're still nervous about engaging with the diamond market and worried about conflict-free stones, lab diamonds are always conflict-free and ethically made, due to the fact they're made in a controlled environment. These stones also come with certificates that let the buyer know they're purchasing a lab made diamond. In fact, large size (1 carat or bigger) diamonds can come with certificates that tell the customer if it is lab or natural so they can buy with confidence.
Moissanite
Lastly, the new kid on the scene: moissanite. Unlike diamonds or lab made diamonds, moissanite is not a diamond. It is its own material makeup but has a similar hardness as diamonds and also has a similar appearance. It's a gemstone, similar to amethyst or sapphire. However, what's most unique about moissanite is that it originates from a meteorite. That's right! It does not come from the Earth. Originally discovered in 1893 by Henri Moissan, this stone is now created in laboratories similar to lab diamonds, from the original moissanite seed found in that meteorite. Due to their clear appearance and hardness, moissanite has become more common as alternatives to diamonds, for those wanting something truly unique. Moissanite are also cost friendly like lab diamonds but even lower, a great choice for an engagement ring to express your love and can easily be replaced with a natural or lab diamond down the line, reusing the moissanite in a pendant or other ring.
Regardless of what one might be looking for in their stone, these are all wonderful options that can be cherished for years to come. All that matters is that you feel confident in your decision and well informed so when you are ready to make that leap into engagement territory or even a little treat for yourself, you're prepared for that first visit at the jewelers.