The Rare Diamonds
The word “diamond” comes from the Greek word “Adámas”, meaning “indestructible”. This term epitomises the unparalleled strength and resilience of this gem, which earns the highest rating of ’10’ on the Mohs Scale of Mineral Hardness. When you look at a natural diamond, you’re beholding a breathtaking marvel crafted over billions of years. It’s hard to believe, but a majority of the natural diamonds used in jewellery were formed before the appearance of flora and fauna on our planet.
Lab Made Diamonds
Vs.
Earth Made Diamonds
Lab-created diamonds are produced in controlled environments, replicating natural diamond-growing conditions. They have the same chemical composition and physical properties as natural diamonds but are created in weeks instead of billions of years
The Natural Diamond Formation Process
Over the last few decades, scientists have found a way to ‘grow’ diamonds using diamond ‘seeds’. The process mimics that of natural diamond-formation, using extreme pressure and heat to replicate specific conditions found deep below the earth’s surface. Just like earth-made diamonds, lab-diamonds are made from pure carbon with the same cubic-crystalline composition.
Choosing A Natural Diamond
Natural diamonds are popular due to their rarity, durability, and timeless allure. Their unique characteristics, formed over millions of years, contribute to their appeal as enduring symbols of elegance and prestige. Here are a few things to consider when choosing a natural diamond.
When selecting a natural diamond, three key factors come into play. Firstly, there’s carat weight, defining size and appearance of the stone. Then, there’s colour and clarity, this refers to grading purity and brilliance of the stone. Lastly, the cut influences sparkle and allure, with popular choices like round brilliant, pear, princess, cushion, and oval cuts. Ultimately, the perfect ring is one that aligns with your preferences and budget.
Identifying Your Natural Diamond
Earth-made diamonds and lab-grown diamonds are nearly indistinguishable without specialised equipment. While lab-grown diamonds are crafted in controlled settings with fewer variations in colour and clarity compared to natural ones, they lack the unique variations and inclusions found in Earth-made diamonds. Despite the similarities, there are some methods to differentiate between the two.
Look at your grading certificate
Natural diamonds are labeled as such and have a unique serial number, often starting with “GIA,” which is laser-inscribed on the girdle. This inscription is visible under a microscope if the diamond is undamaged. It’s a reliable method to confirm the diamond’s origin under a microscope if there is no damage to your diamond.
Inclusion Patterns
Examining inclusion patterns is another method to differentiate natural from lab-grown diamonds. Natural diamonds typically exhibit distinct internal characteristics. Lab-grown ones, due to controlled growth, often have fewer and smaller inclusions. Yet, this technique demands specialised equipment and expertise, making it less reliable for the general public.
Fluorescence
You may also be able to tell the difference between a lab-grown and a natural diamond by looking at any fluorescence under UV light. While fluorescence is not a definitive test for a lab-grown diamond, as natural diamond also may fluoresce, but lab-grown diamond tend to have a higher rate of fluorescence, it can be a sign that the diamond is lab-grown.
Bring In The Experts
Differentiating between natural and lab-grown diamonds often requires advanced testing like Raman spectroscopy or CVD diamond identification, primarily conducted by grading laboratories. While visually identifying them can be challenging, checking certification and understanding these testing methods offer reliable distinctions. Learn more on our Natural vs. Lab Diamond Education page.
Customise Your Natural Diamond
Natural diamonds can be customised in a variety of ways to suit your style preference and budget.
Carat weight: Natural diamonds can be customised to a specific carat weight, which determines the size and overall appearance of the diamond. This allows the consumer to choose a diamond that is the right size for their budget and personal preference.
Colour: Natural diamonds come in a spectrum of colors, from colorless to yellow, blue, and even pink. This array empowers consumers to select a diamond that aligns with their personal style and complements the metal of their ring
Clarity: Natural diamonds boast various levels of clarity, indicating the presence of internal or external flaws and inclusions.
Cut: Natural diamonds offer the flexibility to be customized to specific cuts, impacting their sparkle and brilliance.
Shape: Natural diamonds can also be customised to a specific shape, such as round, pear, marquise, or oval shape.
Certification: Natural diamonds can also receive certification from reputable organisations like GIA, enhancing their credibility and providing consumers with peace of mind.
Shop Diamonds
Cape Diamonds brings you the finest diamonds from the heart of Cape Town, South Africa. Selecting a natural diamond is a meaningful step toward a lifetime of memories. Each stone is a one-of-a-kind creation of the Earth, offering timeless beauty, lasting value, and authentic brilliance. Whether you’re searching for the perfect engagement ring or a special gift, choosing a natural diamond ensures you’re investing in something truly unique and enduring.
South Africa's Most Trusted Jeweller
Most 5 Star Reviews in South Africa
Trip Advisor