Man Made vs Mined Diamonds
The decision to get a natural or man made diamond ultimately depends on your personal preferences and values.
Both natural and man-made diamonds exist, and they are chemically identical. The main difference between them is the way they are formed. Natural diamonds are created over millions of years deep in the earth’s mantle under high temperature and pressure. On the other hand, man-made diamonds are created in a laboratory using advanced technology that simulates the conditions of the earth’s mantle.
There are various reasons why people might choose one type of diamond over the other. Natural diamonds have a certain allure because of their rarity and the fact that they are formed by nature. They also often come with a higher price tag due to their scarcity. Man-made diamonds, on the other hand, are more affordable and can be made to exact specifications. They are also often considered more environmentally friendly, as the process of mining natural diamonds can have significant environmental impacts. Ultimately, the choice between natural and man-made diamonds will depend on personal preference and priorities.
In addition to the differences in formation and cost, natural and man-made diamonds may also differ in their quality and characteristics. For example, man-made diamonds can have fewer inclusions and a more consistent colour, as they are made under controlled conditions. Natural diamonds, on the other hand, can vary widely in their clarity, colour, and size. In some cases, natural diamonds may also have unique features like fluorescence, which can add to their value.
It’s worth noting that both natural and man-made diamonds can be certified by reputable organisations to ensure their quality and authenticity. So, whether you’re interested in purchasing a natural or man-made diamond, it’s important to look for certifications from organisations like the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the International Gemological Institute (IGI).
Another consideration when choosing between natural and man-made diamonds is the ethical implications of diamond mining. The mining of natural diamonds has been associated with environmental damage, human rights abuses, and conflicts, particularly in certain parts of the world. In contrast, man-made diamonds are generally considered more ethical and sustainable because they don’t contribute to these problems.
Additionally, some people may prefer man-made diamonds because they are guaranteed to be conflict-free. The Kimberley Process Certification Scheme was established to prevent the trade of conflict diamonds (also known as blood diamonds) in the global diamond trade, but some argue that the system is not foolproof and that conflict diamonds may still make their way into the market.
Ultimately, the choice between natural and man-made diamonds will depend on various factors, including personal preferences, budget, and ethical considerations. It’s important to do your research and consider all the options before making a decision.