Diamond Jewellery

Yes, lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds. Their chemical, physical and optical properties are the same as those of natural diamonds formed in the earth.

Both types of diamond consist of carbon atoms arranged in the same crystal structure. They rate 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, so they are equally durable and suitable for everyday wear. They also reflect light in the same way, sparkle and display the play of light characteristic of diamonds.

Lab-grown and natural diamonds are graded according to the same main criteria: carat weight, colour, clarity and cut. The certificate also states the origin of the diamond.

The main difference is how they are formed. Natural diamonds form deep within the earth over billions of years, whereas lab-grown diamonds are grown in a few weeks. Lab-grown diamonds usually cost less, but their resale value generally falls faster than that of natural diamonds.

It is usually impossible to reliably distinguish a lab-grown diamond from a natural one with the naked eye or a standard diamond tester. Both have the same chemical composition, crystal structure and optical properties, so they sparkle in the same way and respond identically to standard thermal conductivity tests.

Professional gemmological equipment is needed to determine a diamond’s origin. A specialist can check the certificate number laser-inscribed on the girdle of the diamond, examine growth features under high magnification, or use spectroscopic instruments to analyse trace elements and characteristics of the crystal structure.

The most reliable proof of origin is a certificate issued by an independent gemmological laboratory that clearly states whether the diamond is natural or lab-grown.

When choosing diamond jewellery, the quality of the diamonds, clearly presented information and reliable purchase terms matter more than brand recognition alone. It is worth choosing a seller that provides certificates confirming quality, a warranty, insured delivery and the option to return or exchange the piece.

It is also important to consider the gold fineness and the diamond’s carat weight, colour, clarity and cut quality. A piece of jewellery is best chosen to suit your personal style and the occasion. You might consider designs from the “Blossom”, “Forever”, “Celebrate”, “Love”, “Dream”, “Melody”, “Fashion” or “Exclusive” collections.

A stone that resembles a diamond but has a different chemical composition is called a diamond imitation or simulant. The most common is cubic zirconia, an inexpensive laboratory-created stone that looks similar to a diamond.

Another popular imitation is moissanite. It has an exceptionally bright sparkle and, because of its properties, may be mistakenly identified as a diamond by some basic diamond testers. White sapphires, topaz, glass and plastic are also used to imitate diamonds.

A diamond imitation should not be confused with a lab-grown diamond. A lab-grown diamond is a real diamond with the same chemical composition and crystal structure as a natural diamond, whereas an imitation only looks similar.

An old wedding ring can be remodelled, sold, kept or passed on to another family member. The best choice depends on the ring’s sentimental and material value and its place in your family history.

A jeweller can reuse the diamonds or other gemstones from the ring in a new piece of jewellery, such as a pendant, earrings or a ring of a different design. The gold or platinum can also be melted down and made into an entirely new piece. If you would rather not alter the ring, you can wear it on a chain as a pendant.

If you wish to sell the ring, it is worth first having it professionally valued by a reputable jeweller. Bear in mind that the selling price of a used ring is usually lower than the original retail price or the price stated in a valuation document. Rare, antique or distinctively designed pieces may retain greater value.

The ring can also be kept safely as a family heirloom and passed on to children or other loved ones in the future. It is worth keeping the certificates, purchase documents and a short written history of the ring with it.