Want to know everything about synthetic and imitation diamonds before
you purchase jewelry?
Guide to
Synthetic and Imitation Diamonds
American
and Swedish researchers produced successfully synthetic
and imitation diamonds in the 1950's almost simultaneously.
Synthetic and imitation diamonds have become an increasingly popular
alternative to real diamonds. Even though they will not be as
valuable, or even increase in value as real diamonds do, the
production of synthetic and imitation diamonds has been increasing by
a fast pace and current statistics shows around 80 tons of these gems
are synthesized every year for industrial firms.
Methods of
producing synthetic and imitation diamonds
Two
dependable methods are commonly used for creating these larger
synthetic and imitation diamonds. The First method for producing
synthetic and imitation diamonds is known as chemical vapor
deposition (CVD). In CVD, there is a vacuum chamber in which tiny
diamond pieces precipitate and condense in layers, forming a solid deposit.
The
second method uses a smaller diamond as a 'seed' and then molten
graphite is added to it under tremendous temperature and pressure
until the crystal becomes larger.
User's perspective
Synthetic
and imitation diamonds are created in laboratories by engineers
instead of mining them from naturally existing sources and then being
cut and polished by jewelry manufacturers. In physical terms, the
fact is that synthetic
and imitation diamonds are chemically identical to mined or
'original' naturally existing diamonds. The trend of synthetic and
imitation diamonds in jewelry has impacted the diamond industry
worldwide in a variety of ways. There are pros and cons to using
synthetic and imitation diamonds and it is a buyer's market, so
market determines the growth of industry synthetic or diamond.
As a
consumer, what does this all means? It means be educated about
diamonds, difference between natural ones, lab created ones and
simulated ones. 'Simulated' diamonds like moissanite and CZ (cubic
zirconia) or YAG (yttrium aluminum garnet) only resemble the natural
diamond in appearance but don't have the same chemical properties
while on the other hand, synthetic and imitation diamonds are just
about the same - color, cut or clarity is concerned - as the diamonds
that are mined from earth. Certified gemologists have to make use of
scientific testing equipment to tell the difference between the two.
Why should one
buy artificial diamonds?
Synthetic
and imitation diamonds are a much wiser choice since they are so
much less expensive when compared to natural diamonds.
With Synthetic and imitation diamonds you get the same brilliance,
fire and elegance in your jewelry at the same time saving thousands
of dollars too. It will make easy on buying insurance as well and you
don't have to pay pricey premiums any more! Wow, isn't that something
worth considering?
There
is the constant tension of wearing or carrying original diamond
jewelry as it is very expensive and you will find yourself worrying
about scratching or losing or damaging the precious stones. The
advantage with synthetic and imitation diamonds is that you can
breathe easy even while you look fabulous in your diamond
rings, bracelets
and necklaces.
A
synthetic stone is larger than a similarly priced natural stone.
Smaller imitation stones are vastly less expensive than natural
diamonds, and many couples will choose to use synthetic and imitation
diamonds as accent stones or other small details to complement a
natural center stone. The diamond industry is notorious for unhealthy
business practices like grade bumping and fracture filling and laser
drilling. In contrast, synthetic and imitation diamonds, because they
are lab-created, are flawless and uniform.
Conclusion
Synthetic
and imitation diamonds are an alternative to natural diamonds
with many benefits. They are a better choice for an entire engagement
ring depending on the style, setting, and budget. While synthetic and
imitation diamonds should never be passed off as real, natural
stones, they can be used to great advantage in engagement rings with
the couple's knowledge. |
