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To the naked eye, it's virtually impossible to tell if a diamond is natural or lab-grown.Įnvironmentally speaking, there are pros and cons to each. And since lab-grown diamonds are created in a controlled environment, flawlessness is much easier to achieve at a friendly price, as is a bigger stone. Similarly, when determining where to shop for a lab-grown diamond, especially one as the focal point of the best engagement rings, you'll find all the ring settings you could ever wish for, including traditional, modern, and vintage-inspired designs. You can choose from all the different diamond cuts, from rounds to oval and emerald, set in yellow gold, white gold, and rose gold. Variety is among the best joys when shopping for lab-grown diamonds, and yes, the four Cs: color, cut, clarity, and carat, still apply. While this makes them less rare, they're undoubtedly valuable and often more affordable than natural diamonds.
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Lab diamonds are chemically identical to natural diamonds, but as the name indicates, they're created in a lab rather than through the earth's resources. A common mistake is misinterpreting lab diamonds for simulated diamonds, like cubic zirconia and moissanite, made of different chemical compositions, which they are not. In fact, when you start to research these sparkly creations, including the best places to buy lab-grown diamonds, you'll learn that lab diamonds are real diamonds made of pure carbon. Lab-created diamonds are as coveted as natural diamonds mined from the earth, resulting in choices aplenty.
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But the diamond jewelry industry has vastly changed over the years. In years past, the best lab-grown diamonds may not have been your first choice when shopping for fine jewelry like an engagement ring or everyday pieces from earrings to necklaces and bracelets.
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