Diamonds - exquisite and mesmerizing gemstones that have long been associated with luxury and sophistication. However, when stepping into the diamond market, you will face an important question: How do natural diamonds differ from synthetic diamonds?
Let's explore the distinctions between these two types of diamonds with Senyda.
What are natural diamonds and synthetic diamonds?
Natural Diamonds
Natural diamonds, also known as rough diamonds, are the result of millions of years of natural processes. They are formed deep within the Earth under high pressure and temperature, along with complex interactions of various chemical elements. Natural diamonds often contain impurities such as other minerals, while pure diamonds are exceptionally rare.
Natural diamonds are the result of millions of years of natural processes and contain many impurities.
Synthetic diamonds
Synthetic diamonds, also known as lab-grown diamonds or created diamonds, are produced in a controlled environment and have a much shorter production process compared to natural diamonds. Synthetic diamonds are created using advanced technological methods such as chemical vapor deposition (CVD) and high-pressure, high-temperature (HPHT) diamond synthesis. These techniques enable the production of diamonds with structures and properties similar to natural diamonds.
Synthetic diamonds have the same structure and properties as natural diamonds.
Characteristics of natural and synthetic diamonds
Origin
Natural diamonds are formed deep within the Earth, originating from prolonged natural processes that span millions of years and endure extreme temperatures at depths of approximately 100 miles beneath the Earth's surface.
Synthetic diamonds, on the other hand, are brought into existence through tightly controlled manufacturing processes within laboratory environments. Advanced scientists and engineers worldwide utilize cutting-edge technology, achieving the necessary temperature and pressure to create beautiful and high-quality synthetic diamonds.
Chemical Composition
Natural diamonds are formed from carbon in a natural environment, under specific temperature and pressure conditions, and have a specific gravity of approximately 3.51 g/cm3.
Natural diamonds form from carbon in the natural environment.
On the other hand, synthetic diamonds also contain carbon as the main component, created in a laboratory setting under conditions similar to the natural environment deep within the Earth, and have an approximate specific gravity of 3.52 g/cm3.
Color
Natural diamonds without color often have a faint yellow, brown, or greenish hue, although the color is very light and can be considered colorless. This category accounts for the majority of natural diamonds.
Natural diamonds are very pale in color, to the point of being considered colorless.
In contrast, synthetic diamonds are crafted in various colors such as white, pink, light blue, purple, and light orange. This is noteworthy when using them in jewelry and feng shui items. Examining the color is one of the primary methods for accurately distinguishing synthetic diamonds today.
Synthetic diamonds are crafted in various colors such as white, pink, light blue, v.v.
Hardness
Natural diamonds have a hardness of 10 on the Mohs scale, indicating excellent scratch resistance.
Natural diamonds have a hardness of 10 on the Mohs scale.
On the other hand, synthetic diamonds have relatively high hardness, around 8.5 on the Mohs scale. However, since they do not achieve the hardness of 10 like natural diamonds, synthetic diamonds are more prone to cracking and scratching.
Synthetic diamonds have relatively high hardness, around 8.5.
Brilliance and Sparkle
Natural diamonds have a high refractive index, reaching 2.417. This property causes natural diamonds to reflect light and create a stunning sparkle when light passes through them.
Natural diamonds have a high refractive index, reaching 2.417.
In contrast, synthetic diamonds have a much lower refractive index, only 1.217. This means that the light rays passing through synthetic diamonds can still be observed, but they lack the distinctiveness and brilliance of natural diamonds.
Synthetic diamonds have a much lower refractive index, only 1.217.
Pricing
Natural diamonds are extremely valuable, with an estimated price of around $7,500 USD per carat.
On the other hand, the price of synthetic diamonds in the current market varies significantly, typically around $200 USD per carat.
Some ways to differentiate between natural diamonds and synthetic diamonds
Checking clarity with a loupe
Natural diamonds are formed under harsh environmental conditions and are likely to contain inclusions or impurities. When observed under a loupe, you can easily see the presence of these internal characteristics.
In contrast, synthetic diamonds are created in controlled environments without the presence of bacteria or impurities. When examined under a loupe, their surfaces appear smooth, flawless, and devoid of any internal inclusions.
Examining refraction under light
The exquisite beauty and brilliance of a diamond are achieved through its ability to refract light. Natural diamonds have a high refractive index of up to 2.417, resulting in a diverse range of sparkle and color when viewed under light.
In contrast, synthetic diamonds have a lower refractive index of approximately 1.217, causing less light to be reflected back. When placed side by side under light, you will notice a significant difference in the beauty and elegance between the two.
Scratch test using sandpaper
Diamonds are renowned for their exceptional hardness. Natural diamonds have a perfect hardness score of 10. Therefore, when you rub sandpaper against the surface of a natural diamond, it will not leave any scratches.
Synthetic diamonds, although they do not possess the same level of hardness consistency, still achieve an impressive score of 8.5. However, when you rub sandpaper against a synthetic diamond, you will notice the appearance of scratches and a roughened surface.
When purchasing diamonds, the most important aspect is to choose reputable and trustworthy jewelry brands, whether they offer natural or synthetic diamonds. Distinguishing between them can often be challenging for the untrained eye.
Senyda Jewels is a reputable establishment specializing in providing high-quality diamond jewelry, such as rings, necklaces, earrings, and more. With their exquisite designs and diverse styles, Senyda offers a wide range of choices for customers. Senyda's jewelry products come with clear proof of origin, providing absolute peace of mind for customers during their shopping experience.
Through this article, Senyda hopes to provide you with valuable information on how to differentiate between natural and synthetic diamonds when you are in need of purchasing diamonds.