When searching for diamond earrings for yourself or to give to a loved one, you want to make sure that you’re buying them from the best place. You’ll also want to keep in mind the different types of diamonds that are available to purchase. There are two main types of diamonds that are commonly used in diamond earrings: mined diamonds that are mined from the earth, and lab-grown diamonds that are derived from man-made techniques in a laboratory.
While mined diamonds and lab-grown diamonds are formed and harvested in different ways, the Federal Trade Commission acknowledges both types of diamonds as real diamonds. Lab-grown diamonds are not the same as diamond simulants like cubic zirconia; they are held to the high standards of quality that mined diamonds are. As such, you can rest-assured that purchasing a pair of lab-grown diamond earrings will be just as fantastic (or even more so) as purchasing a pair of mined diamond earrings. However, not all lab-grown diamonds are made alike, so it’s important to do your research on what companies produce the best lab-grown diamonds before you buy them.
How Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Made?
Lab-grown diamonds are made by exposing a diamond seed (a small existing piece of diamond) to carbon atoms in order to grow a new diamond. This process takes about a month, depending on the carat size of the diamond being created. There are two methods that are commonly used to make lab-grown diamonds, HPHT and CVD, which we’ll dive into below.
HPHT: High Pressure, High Temperature
A number of lab-grown diamond manufacturers create their diamonds via the HPHT method. This method involves placing a diamond seed in pure carbon and exposing it to high levels of pressure and heat. While the HPHT method of making lab-grown diamonds is better for the environment than the mining process as it causes no deforestation, it requires a large amount of energy, which can be costly and take a toll on power supplies.
CVD: Chemical Vapor Deposition
The other method of making lab-grown diamonds is known as CVD. VRAI diamonds are created in their zero-emission foundry with 100% hydropower from the Columbia River. They are direct-to-consumer and have their own foundry. This sustainable jewelry company makes their own lab-grown diamonds that are included in their diamond earrings, engagement rings, necklaces, and bracelets. They choose to use the CVD method as it’s technically more sustainable than mining, as well as HPHT. VRAI’s differentiator is that they are the only company to do it with 100% renewable energy.
Here’s how: The CVD method requires a diamond seed to be placed in a vacuum sealed chamber where carbon gasses are pumped in and converted to plasma so carbon atoms can build upon the existing diamond seed.
VRAI Popular Diamond Jewelry Styles
VRAI’s sustainable created lab-grown diamonds stand out from other lab-grown diamond companies since they are created in their zero-emission fundry. VRAI incorporates their lab-grown diamonds into a variety of popular jewelry pieces, including:
Earrings
As mentioned above, diamond earrings are a wonderful gift. They’re also one of the most popular forms of lab-grown diamond jewelry available from VRAI. Some of the styles of lab-grown diamond earrings that VRAI makes include:
- Studs: Earrings with singular diamonds that come in a variety of different cuts and carat sizes.
- Hoops: Hoop-shaped earrings lined with a series of diamonds, similar to the style of an Eternity or Pavé diamond ring.
- Dangling: Earrings that feature diamonds that dangle from the base of the ear. These can include one diamond, or multiple.
- Statement: Earrings that feature a variety of diamonds in a stunning array. These earrings can feature additional metal chains, as well as diamonds in unique shapes like Half-Moon and Hexagon.
Engagement Rings
VRAI is known for the wide array of lab-grown engagement ring styles. What’s great about VRAI is that you can easily book a consultation online to speak with a diamond expertwho can walk you through the process of creating the perfect engagement ring.
Necklaces
Simple Solitaire lab-grown diamond necklaces and pendants are a favorite among VRAI’s customers. They also have a variety of statement necklaces that can pair well with the statement diamond earrings they offer.
Conclusion
Lab-grown diamonds are a fantastic, more environmentally friendly form of diamonds that are incorporated into popular jewelry items. VRAI is a company that makes lab-grown diamonds in their zero-emission foundry to ensure their diamonds are created with the sustainability of our planet in mind. As such, you can feel good about your purchase of diamond jewelry from VRAI as the pieces you pick out have been made without causing a great deal of pollution. The next time you’re in the market for a new pair of diamond earrings, an engagement ring, or a diamond necklace, check out VRAI for ethical, lab-grown diamond jewelry pieces.
