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Lab Grown Diamonds

What are Lab-Grown Diamonds?

Lab-grown diamonds have been around for a number of decades, originally created and used for industrial purposes. A lab-grown diamond can be created using two methods; the High Pressure High Temperature Treatment and Chemical Vapour Disposition, both commonly referred to as their acronyms HPHT and CVD. Jewellery grade synthetic (lab-grown) diamonds have only been around since the 1990’s as stated in this article produced by the GIA (Gemological Institute of America). The last few years has seen an increased desire from consumers to purchase lab-grown diamonds due to being a more sustainable option and environmentally friendly.

Are Lab-Grown Diamonds The Same as a Natural Diamond?

Natural diamonds have been mined for over four thousand years. They start their journey under the deep within the earth’s mantle over a billion years ago. Diamonds were even around when dinosaurs walked the earth. A natural diamond is created when the element carbon is subjected to tremendous heat and pressure beneath the earth’s surface.

Modern technology aims to replicate the conditions of the earth’s mantle but in a controlled and laboratory environment. Lab-grown diamonds take weeks to make as opposed to years and without the mining conditions and supply chain are a more sustainable and cheaper alternative. A lab-grown diamond is optically, chemically, and physically identical to a natural diamond. However the main difference is the origin journey of the raw diamond.

A lab-grown diamond is optically, chemically, and physically identical to a natural diamond.

Why Are Diamonds & Lab-Grown Diamonds Popular?

Originally diamonds were mined and used as tools, way before their true beauty was discovered through cutting. They are one of the most prized and expensive gemstones, with the four major gemstones being diamonds, rubies, sapphires and emeralds.

“Diamonds are a girl’s best friend.” – you may have heard this saying before, and it is very much true! Diamonds became increasingly desirable in the 1950’s, through pop-culture  such as the popularity of Marilyn Monroe. She appeared in the very famous film Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, in which she performs the song “Diamonds Are A Girls Best Friend”. Marilyn Monroe performs this song wearing her iconic pink dress whilst covered in large glistening jewellery.

“Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend.”

Marilyn Monroe

As consumers have become more aware of the environmental and social impact of their fashion and shopping choices, the question of ethics surrounding diamonds has also been raised. The Kimberley Process was created as certification with a mission to reduce the mining and exporting of “Blood Diamonds”.  Please visit our article on our ethically sourced diamonds.

Lab-grown diamonds are viewed as an ethically sourced and more sustainable option which is why they have seen a boom in more recent years. As these are created in a laboratory, there is no mining involved and seen as the more environmentally friendly alternative. As well as this, the huge supply chain of a natural mined diamond is removed, thus they are considerably cheaper – meaning you can get more sparkle for your money!

How are Lab-Grown Diamonds Created?

Diamonds are almost entirely made of carbon, which is incredible as carbon in graphite and yet this is incredibly soft! It is the way in which the heat and pressure has transformed this element creating an incredible crystal structure in the diamond that is super strong. A diamonds crystal lattice is cubic and incredibly well structured and strong, whereas a graphite lattice is structurally unsecure.

There are two processes in which a lab-grown diamond can be made, these processes mimic the conditions from deep within the earths mantle. The High Pressure High Temperature process take a diamond slice, known as a diamond seed, and is placed into carbon inside of a machine. This diamond seed is subjected to pressure of 5 GPa which is 730000 psi and heated to around 1500 degrees Celsius. The carbon melts and forms around the diamond seed causing a large synthetic diamond.

The second process is Chemical Vapor Disposition, where a diamond seed is placed in a chamber with a hydrocarbon gas mixture and is then exposed to a temperature of around 800 degrees Celsius. During this process other gases are introduced which are energized and ironised, using powers such as microwave powers or lasers. The diamond seed begins to grow as it crystallises, creating a synthetic diamond.

Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Certified?

Yes, Lab-grown diamonds are indeed certified just like natural diamonds. Lab-grown diamonds are certified by independent bodies such as the IGI and GIA. The GIA have been issuing laboratory grown diamonds with identification reports since 2007. The certificate includes the all important 4 C’s; cut, colour, clarity and carat. The report will also identify which process was used to create the diamond, either stating if it is a HPHT or CVD created diamond.

Learn more about the 4 C’s from our article here.

Lab-Grown Diamond Vs. Natural Diamond

Although a lab-grown diamond is seen as the more sustainable and ethical option compared to a natural diamond, ultimately they are grown in laboratories which use an awful lot of power leaning heavily on fossil fuels for energy. This can lead to a large output of carbon pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. The only way a lab-grown diamond could be seen as categorically the most sustainable option, would be if the laboratory relied solely on hydropower, then the environmental impacts would be far less. The biggest and major selling point of a lab-grown diamond, is the fact that they are considerably cheaper than a natural diamond. Meaning that you can get a lot more for your money, should you wish to have a bigger diamond on a smaller budget. View our range of lab-grown diamond engagement rings here.

As we are becoming more conscious about climate change and environmental factors, leading diamond miners, such as De Beers are making sure that they are committed to becoming carbon neutral. De Beers are the largest diamond company in the world, and they do not take this role lightly and make sure they share their best practices within the industry and encourage others to follow their lead. Another benefit of mining natural diamonds is the number of jobs the industry offers to communities. Botswana in particular has benefited positively economically from diamond mining. Due to the Kimberley Process, you can also be sure that your diamond is not the result of a “Blood Diamond” and has a fully traceable origin. And finally, a natural diamond is a rare and authentic gemstone which will forever hold its unique value, should you choose a natural diamond for your engagement ring.

A natural diamond is a rare and authentic gemstone which will forever hold its unique value.

Whichever diamond you wish to go for, we can absolutely help you find the perfect diamond for your engagement ring. Whether you wish to go for a lab-grown diamond or a natural diamond, we have access to over 1 million certified stones and can be sure to help you find the one for your bespoke engagement ring – which will become a wonderful heirloom for you and your family.

A Gemstone For Every Occasion

multi gemstone pendant

Every gemstone is unique, millions of years old, and has occurred naturally. The different varieties have been loved throughout history because of their beauty, and the story they had to tell. The Ancient Egyptians wore them, as did many of the Kings and Queens of old. The Knights and their Ladies, celebrities, or the famous people of an era. Aquamarine, Emerald and Morganite are varieties of the mineral Beryl. They bring their own beauty and charm to our rings, and other items of jewellery stocked by International Diamond Brokers.

aquamarine diamond ring on pink and green

Aquamarine

The beautiful Aquamarine is a pale blue gemstone, with shades of green from traces of iron that have been absorbed into its structure. Aqua is Latin for water, whilst marine means the ocean. True aquamarine is a pale turquoise colour. Similar to the tropical seas whose waters ebb and flow onto pure white sand. Naturally making us think of Paradise. The Aquamarine is the perfect ring to be worn on holiday… and every other day too!

emerald diamond ring

Emerald

The Emerald is one of our most precious gemstones. Its distinctive green colour comes from chromium, and again, traces of iron. It’s probable that Emeralds were mined in Ancient Egypt, more than three thousand years ago. Whilst people in the Medieval era wore them because they believed that the Emerald had protective powers. During the sixteenth century when the Spanish invaders reached Central and South America, they discovered that the Aztec and Inca Empires were rich in gold and Emeralds. The stones were thought to be sacred, and often carved into jewellery or small goblets. Some of the finest Emeralds we have today come from Columbia. Like the Gachala Emerald, weighing 858 carats. Whilst there is also the traditional belief, that wearing an Emerald will bring love into our lives. So why not treat yourself to an Emerald ring, like the one in the photograph below? An elegant, and sophisticated, item of jewellery.

morganite diamond ring yellow flower

Morganite

Morganite is a pink or purplish pink gemstone. It was first identified in 1910 and named the following year, in honour of the financier and banker, J.P. (John Pierpont) Morgan. The main sources of Morganite are Brazil, Madagascar, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and the United States of America. It is traditionally believed to attract love, and keep it safe. The perfect reason to wear the faerytale, Morganite ring in the photograph below!

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Gemstone jewellery makes a beautiful gift for the one you love, or to treat yourself to something special. It doesn’t have to be an Engagement, Wedding or Eternity ring. Perhaps a pendant, bracelet, or earrings? All of which look stunning when they are unwrapped, and the box is opened. Even better when they are worn by you, or the one you love. Jewellery has been given, and received throughout history. Not only by members of the Royal Family or famous people of the day, but those who appreciate beautiful gemstones and the thought behind this special gift.

International Diamond Brokers have a large stock of gemstones, and plenty of choice to suit every occasion. Or if you have an idea for a particular item you would like made, please contact us so that we can discuss this with you. Our Goldsmith will be pleased to create a special piece of jewellery for you, and we can help you source the best gemstones for it. We also stock Rubies, and Sapphires. Like the beautiful pink Sapphire earrings, in the photograph below.

pink sapphire diamond earrings

If you would like to find out more about how Gemstones are naturally formed, please click the link to our earlier article: https://internationaldiamond-brokers.com/formation-of-gemstones/

To see more of our rings, and other jewellery, please follow us on Instagram and Facebook.

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A gift of Gemstone Jewellery can be for that special occasion… Or just because!

The Best Sapphire Engagement Ring

sapphire diamond cluster ring

The Sapphire Engagement Ring in the photograph above is surrounded by a cluster of Diamonds, set in 18 carat white gold. Like the Diamond and Ruby, the Sapphire is formed of aluminium oxide which occurs naturally in a mineral known as corundum. Whilst its stunning blue colour comes from titanium, and iron. Some of the best of these gemstones are found in Africa, Australia, Sri Lanka, India and Myanmar. The rarest Sapphires have a star pattern within their depths called asterism, made from Rutile wands. The star may be visible if the gemstone is shaped and polished in a cabochon, or rounded dome. Cornflower blue is often used to describe its rich, velvet intensity and depth. Although blue is the most popular, you will find Sapphires in other colours, including yellow and pink.

How to Choose the Best Sapphire

If you have chosen a Sapphire Engagement Ring, or simply because you love this gemstone as much as we do at International Diamond Brokers, how do you find the best one for you? Here are a five things you can look out for which may affect the appearance, and value of your Sapphire:

  • Colour

A classic blue Sapphire should have a pure to violet hue. Any trace of green can diminish the value of the gemstone. The best Sapphires are medium to medium dark in tone, with a vivid intensity and vibrancy.

  • Pleochroism

All Sapphires have this. Showing two colours, when viewed from different angles. Gem cutters usually aim to have the cornflower blue at the top of the stone, and any greenish blue or other shading on the sides. The greater the pleochroism the lower the price.

  •  Colour Zoning

This often occurs in Sapphires, as bands of dark and light blue which are actually growth marks. If the zoning is too obvious the value of the gemstone may be considerably less.

  • Clarity

Sapphires often have inclusions or fractures. Tiny crystals, liquids, or gases trapped inside of them. These don’t affect the value unless they detract from the gemstone’s beauty. The asterism star effect is a valuable inclusion

  • Cut

Low clarity Sapphires with a good colour often have a cabochon cut. Whilst a Sapphire Engagement Ring usually has faceted cuts, to enhance its beauty.

The ring in the photograph below is a stunning example of an amazing Sapphire. It weighs 1.89 carats and is set with an oval faceted, vibrant gemstone. A contrast is achieved by the round brilliant cut diamonds on either side of it. All crafted in 18 carat white gold.

blue sapphire diamonds ring

And thine eye is like a star, But blue as the sapphires are…


The Poetical Works of Miss Landon (1839)

A Famous Sapphire Engagement Ring

Sapphires have been popular for many years, with Royalty and celebrities. The Duchess of Cambridge’s ring is an oval 12 carat Ceylon Sapphire, surrounded by diamonds. Prince Charles chose this particular gemstone in the 1980s, to be made into a ring for Lady Diana Spencer, and which was later inherited by their son. Prince William gave it to his future wife, Catherine, in 2010. It is now one of the most famous Engagement rings in the world. Our classic 18 carat yellow and white gold Sapphire Engagement ring is in the photograph below.

oval sapphire claw set ring

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The deep blue colour of the Sapphire is often seen in Medieval paintings, and stained glass windows. Traditionally regarded as a symbol of Heaven, this blue is said to connect us to our deepest dreams. Whilst wearing a ring set with a Sapphire helps them come true. So the perfect gift, for the one you love. 

Our Sapphires are also set in earrings, pendants, and bracelets. Or our Eternity rings, like the one in the photograph below.

sapphire diamond eternity ring

If your ring or other item of jewellery also has Diamonds in its setting, you might like to read an earlier article on our blog. Please click the link to this: https://internationaldiamond-brokers.com/category/diamond-cut/

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You can also contact us by email at the following address: contact@internationaldiamond-brokers.com

Gemstones and beautiful jewellery are made for love! We look forward to hearing from you.

The Perfect Diamond Engagement Ring

engagement ring on white flowers

A beautiful Diamond Engagement ring is a unique way of saying I love you. The moment when it is given, and the memory this creates are timeless. An eternal gift which is followed by the special day when you also wear a Wedding Ring. While an Eternity Ring can complete the three circles of gold or platinum which have a special meaning for you both. International Diamond Brokers offers a professional and bespoke service, to help you find the perfect rings, because we understand the important part this plays in the celebration of your love.

engagement rings on pink macaroon

Tradition, Romance and Love

Men and women have desired beautiful rings from the earliest of times, to wear for their symbolism and status, or as we do now for love. The rings worn long ago by the Ancient Greeks, Egyptians, and Romans signified a man’s intention to marry, and a woman’s connection to him. A diamond has been regarded as a sign of wealth for thousands of years, and in matters of the heart… It is forever. So the perfect gift for the one you love.

“If I know what love is, it is because of you.”

Hermann Hesse (1877 – 1962)
engagement rings eternity ring and flower

Your Engagement Ring

Being engaged and married are two of the most important occasions in our lives. Your diamond symbolises the love that exists between a husband and wife. Giving an Engagement Ring is a sign of commitment before, and after, your wedding. The beautiful Engagement Rings which International Diamond Brokers have on offer are the perfect choice. If you want a bespoke ring made by our in-house goldsmith, this begins with you selecting a diamond that is just right for you. For more advice on how to find your diamond, please read our earlier post https://internationaldiamondbrokers.ie/category/diamond-cut/

With this ring I thee wed… Your Wedding Ring

Wedding rings are usually worn on the fourth finger of the left hand, between the middle and little fingers. The Ancient Greeks believed that this finger contained the “vena amoris,” or the vein of love which connected directly to the Bride’s heart. Whilst the Engagement and Wedding Rings made by us take this to the next level, in the skill and care we put into creating them for you. 

Your Eternity Ring… Symbolising forever.

“How do I love thee? Let me count the ways. I love thee to the depth and breadth and height my soul can reach.”

Elizabeth Barrett Browning (1806 – 1861)

An Eternity ring is a beautiful piece of jewellery, representing the love that exists in a relationship. What this symbolises to the Bride and Groom. For this reason two Eternity rings can never be the same because they are truly about you, and the love you share with someone else. A never ending circle of your life, and love. If diamonds are set into your ring they may also symbolise this. They have been used for centuries to show love, fidelity, devotion and friendship. Your Eternity Ring can be created in solid gold or platinum, and set with different gemstones. It is often given to celebrate an anniversary which is an important or special occasion for you. What that will be isn’t universally agreed, so the choice is yours. Although many believe that it should be given on the first wedding anniversary or the birth of a first child. If you would like a matching set of rings, International Diamond Brokers can create all of them for you when you first contact us. We will make them, especially for you. Is it necessary to buy all three rings? Again this is a matter of personal choice, but the number three is traditionally thought to be sacred. Just like marriage or the vows you make in your own special ceremony. It is often used to refer to the Holy Trinity, and Heaven. It is also connected to the past, present, and future. Our bodies, minds, and souls. So intended to be forever, and as we also believe, for you.

pink heart and roses

More about the Professional Service we provide

If you would like to buy a bespoke Diamond Engagement ring don’t hesitate to contact us. We have rings in stock, or can help you choose the best diamond for you and discuss how this can be turned into the perfect ring. We have access to over one million diamonds so there will be plenty to choose from in your price range. If you would like to learn more about how we go about bringing our ethically sourced diamonds to you, please click the following link: https://www.kimberleyprocess.com/en/what-kp

Please contact us by email on: contact@internationaldiamond-brokers.com

You can see more of our work, and follow us on Facebook or Instagram, by clicking the links below:

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Let our rings make your dream become a reality… We look forward to hearing from you.

We have access to over 1.5 million different loose diamonds worldwide. Loose diamonds as the term infers means that the diamond is not in a setting.

There are a great many reasons to buy a loose diamond. Some people like to give loose diamonds as a present so that the recipient can build a ring around the diamond. Loose diamonds can like any other diamond be certified or uncertified but we at International prefer to sell certified stones.

One might ask is there anything wrong with an uncertified loose diamond. The answer is sometimes no as the diamond can look on the face of it as good as any other diamond but often the mine will have decided that it is not going to make certain criteria and that these stones will be sold off at a discount. Sometimes an uncertified loose diamond can be available at a very substantial discount so do not rule them out. Most reputable dealers offering loose diamonds will offer to upgrade them to loose diamond later on when the finances improve.

Some people prefer to sacrifice quality for size and the trick is to find a happy medium when buying your loose diamond certified or not.

In the modern world diamonds can be transported quickly and we can get a diamond from most parts of the earth within days! Once a loose diamond has been found we can build a setting to fit around it and this is done by creating a CAD. CADS or Computer aided designs often look unattractive because of their sheer size. Do not let this put you off the designs have to be of scale in order for the cad operator to be able to see them properly.

Good luck with finding your loose diamond. We supply both loose diamonds and the complete ring and are happy to supply either.

 

 

 

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