Emerging as a dynamic and influential agent of change in the realm of luxury, lab-grown diamonds serve as a resilient and innovative alternative to conventional ideas and are the new fashion elements. With their potent opulence and simultaneous adherence to ethical principles, these ecologically sound diamonds have elevated the definition of fashion, as well.
From the likes of Zoe Kravitz to Billy Porter even celebrities have adorned their Met Gala and Red Carpet strides with a brilliant and conscientious sparkle which are the latest fashion trends. It's courtesy of lab-created diamonds studded in their earrings and the meticulously crafted necklace
( Source: diamondfoundry.com )
These certified eco-conscious diamonds have penetrated the mainstream option while satisfying the demands of mindful consumers with a combination of economic viability, sustainability, and desirability.
There are currently discussions and objections regarding the characterization of lab-grown diamonds as "synthetic" or "fake." It is important to acknowledge that these diamonds are intentionally produced to be genuine and in alignment with natural diamonds, and therefore, labelling them as deceptive could be deemed excessive. Moreover, it can be projected that these diamonds are ethical game-changers that now can not be ruled out from the trending fashion.
Rewind to July of 2019, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), a reputable third-party diamond certification laboratory, made a significant revision to their certification process and report for diamonds produced in a laboratory. In accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's (FTC) guidelines, the term "synthetic" was removed from their terminology as it could offer a deceptive idea to consumers regarding the authenticity of lab-created diamonds.
GIA reports even revealed that "Because laboratory-grown diamonds are essentially chemically and optically the same as their natural counterparts, traditional gemological observations and old-style “diamond detectors” are not able to tell them apart".
(Source: businesstoday.in )
It clearly reveals that these laboratory-grown diamonds exhibit a conspicuous resemblance to their naturally occurring counterparts, possessing similar physical and chemical properties. The only key distinction between the two is that lab-grown diamonds are created in a controlled environment, as opposed to natural diamonds that form within the Earth's crust.
So, the assertion that laboratory-grown diamonds are mere counterfeits or imitations is flawed, as these are formed through highly advanced technological processes, like HPHT or CVD methods, that also promote eco-conservation. Unlike cubic zirconia, lab-grown diamonds consist of compressed carbon structures that are indistinguishable from naturally mined diamonds.
Moreover, lab-grown diamonds are not scarce since they do not rely on the exploitation of natural resources, unlike mined diamonds which are not only economically expensive but also pose an environmental burden. The blood diamonds put the environment at stake just for creating the lustre the world desires for. In this case, these budget-friendly and trending fashion lab-grown diamonds are proven to be a sustainable and mindful choice that preludes any characterization as cheap or short-term material.
"Lab-grown diamonds are a far cry from fake diamonds", affirmed the International Gem Society (IGS), "Historically, fake diamonds were typically glass. Glass is much less durable and has a lot less sparkle than a well-cut diamond. Other diamond imitations, like synthetic cubic zirconia and natural zircon or topaz gems, are likely to chip with wear. Lab-created diamonds have none of those issues. They're just as durable and sparkly as any natural diamond".
These statements made by IGS could carry significant weight in response to the recent LGD allegations in the new fashion world. These eco-conscious diamonds are assessed for their quality based on the 4Cs by various organisations such as IGI, GIA, and GCAL. A certified lab diamond is the epitome of durability or strength which makes them a reliable long-term investment that will endure forever.
It is important to acknowledge that the claim suggests that certain retailers are not transparently managing consumer expectations. However, it must be noted that reputable organisations like GIA are taking proactive measures to educate consumers and establish a uniform grading system to protect them against fraudulent practices or unfavourable situations.
"We are responding to consumer demand," exclaimed Susan Jacques, CEO of GIA, "We want to make sure that consumers are educated, that we can protect their trust in the gem and jewellery industry as well as the products they are buying. As consumers adopt this new category, it's important that we evolve with the new consumer. I don't think it's a change of mind. It's an evolution".
Embracing a promising future with confidence in LGDs
Furthermore, lab-grown diamonds, in addition to being an environmentally-conscious alternative, possess the potential to bolster the self-sufficiency of the country's jewellery industry. The Indian government has even taken steps to incentivize the domestic production of lab-grown diamonds by providing financial grants, as outlined in the Union Budget 2023. Additionally, these diamonds can help to mitigate the nation's reliance on imported diamonds.
"Lab-grown diamonds is a technology and innovation-driven emerging sector with high employment potential," said Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and continued further, "With the depletion of deposits of natural diamonds, the industry is moving towards lab-grown diamonds and it holds huge promise".
(Source: withclarity.com )
This steadfast dedication to lab-grown diamonds is undoubtedly an honest and ethical endeavour, considering that these diamonds are responsibly sourced, produced, and promoted. This serves to protect the trust and assurance of consumers.
David Bouffard, Chair of RJC, emphasised, "With the increasing consumer awareness of LGMs, it is imperative that we set these standards to ensure that all laboratory-grown diamonds and gemstones are responsibly manufactured, sourced and sold and that consumer confidence can be maintained through the application of a clear and consistent approach".
The advent of LGDs has caused a significant shift in the landscape of regulated organisations, industry standards, and consumer preferences, leading to a widespread acceptance of these diamonds. This trend represents an evolution in the world's attitudes towards LGDs, which are not a conflict but a conservative approach in the latest fashion trends.
As industries and business domains continue to evolve dynamically, consumers are increasingly embracing the concept of sustainability and changing their outlook and behavioural patterns. This shift necessitates a transition away from conventional approaches, and it's undeniable that lab-grown diamonds have become one such transition.
The prospect of lab-created diamonds retaining their dominance in the jewellery industry and continuing to thrive is undeniably compelling. As these environmentally-conscious gems are guilt-free and have introduced a groundbreaking concept in the trending fashion that shows no signs of fading away anytime soon.
In a world that is perpetually evolving, being mindful is a decision and LGDs assemble an avenue to merge that thought with reality. Imbued with an ethos of eco-consciousness, these lab diamonds intersect seamlessly with sustainability and style. They intentionally mark an ethical modern touch to your bling vocabulary while inviting you to step boldly into a timeline of ceaseless innovation of new fashion.
