Technology is constantly evolving, and people are finding more and more efficient ways to perform actions. Moreover, they have even learned to copy natural processes and grow precious stones. This is a truly significant achievement because the cost of such products is lower, and the quality does not suffer. However, such diamonds also have opponents. Which group do you belong to? In this article, we will describe the advantages of both options so you can decide.
The Allure of Natural Diamonds
Until recently, mined gemstones were the only alternative. Perhaps there is no need to talk about their value and beauty. It is not for nothing that a diamond is considered a royal stone. However, today, natural products have only one advantage: the stability of their value. The fact is that this is an exhaustible resource, so the prices for such stones remain stable or increase over time. Therefore, these stones are often used for investment.
In addition, it is difficult to find a genuinely worthy diamond of good quality in nature. Therefore, they are rare, which also increases their value. It is no coincidence that unique diamonds are usually given names. However, even 5 carat diamonds for rings will cost a pretty penny.
The Advantage of Lab-Made Stones
Lab-grown specimens are finding more and more fans. Check out the best lab grown diamond engagement rings. They are in no way inferior to natural ones in their shine and magnificence. However, they do have several advantages.
Price
Despite the completely natural structure and magnificent appearance, lab-grown samples are cheaper. 3ct diamonds will cost you about 40% less than their natural counterpart. In the case of smaller and industrial diamonds, the price difference is even more noticeable. Thus, this technology has made beautiful jewelry accessible to almost everyone.
Visual Characteristics
Since the stone grows in ideal laboratory conditions, it is not exposed to unaccounted factors. Therefore, no flaws are formed in it. Thus, losses during processing are minimal, and the possibilities for use are much more significant. Paradoxically, ardent defenders of natural stones consider this perfection a disadvantage. They claim that the absence of defects deprives the stone of individuality.
Eco-Friendliness
Any mining industry causes serious harm to the environment. Therefore, the ability to produce stones without excavation is the way to a greener future. Since environmental issues are incredibly acute in modern society, this is a significant advantage. In fact, the transition to lab-produced products has already significantly reduced the ecological footprint of many industrial companies. In the jewelry industry, the balance is still tilted towards natural stones, but positive trends are emerging here, too.
Social Aspect
Diamonds have a reputation as bloody gemstones for a reason. And it all starts with their extraction. Child labor and low wages are still common. Social organizations fight against this, but companies strive to make production as cheap as possible, and this leads to sad consequences. Lab-grown gemstones do not have such disadvantages. No unskilled labor is used in their production, and there is no hint of exploitation in this industry.
What to Choose
The first thing to understand is that in both cases, you are getting a real diamond. It is not a fake or an imitation. By all characteristics, it is a real gem. Therefore, one of the key factors in choosing is your budget. Even a specialist will not be able to distinguish lab-grown and natural stones by eye.
So, if a low price is essential to your budget at the moment, then the lab option will be preferable. After all, love is not measured in money. Why wait if you can create a happy family right now? The most important thing is your feelings, and the origin of the stone in the ring is of secondary importance.
Conclusion
Laboratory-grown stones have become an integral part of our lives. In industry, they have already supplanted their natural counterparts. However, the jewelry world still has a negative attitude towards such stones. However, the only advantage of natural diamonds is the stability of their price. Thus, investing in a stone today can multiply your money tomorrow. In all other respects, lab-grown options have an advantage. Therefore, choose based on your taste and wallet.
