Lab-Grown Diamonds are still Diamonds

Lab-grown diamonds are identical to mined diamonds in their physical, chemical, and optical properties.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has recently revised its guidelines for the jewelry industry and has expanded the definition of a diamond to now include lab-grown diamonds. The decision is a win for the lab-grown industry because it re-affirms what they already knew, but was confusing to consumers, which is that lab-grown diamonds are indeed diamonds!

Less confusion for consumers

Previously, there were only a few terms acceptable to describe lab-grown diamonds such as lab created, manufacturer created, and synthetic. The wording was confusing to consumers and misled them to believe they were getting something other or less than what they wanted. While lab-grown diamonds must still be disclosed as non-mined, there is no need to advertise these stones as anything but what they are – diamonds.

Not mined but not synthetic

Indeed, there is no difference between lab grown and mined diamonds aside from where they were found. Therefore it is wrong to call lab-grown diamonds “synthetic” because they are not fake.  They are not a simulant (such as CZ or Moissanite). While it is rare to see the word synthetic, it is problematic enough that the FTC made an official ruling not to use the term. The industry standard term has become “lab-grown,” and it seems to sit well with consumers. Although now that the FTC has revised its guidelines, marketers are allowed to be more creative with how they advertise for mined and lab-grown diamonds. Already mined diamonds are marketed as natural, precious, and rare. Perhaps now we might see lab-grown diamonds also referred to as human-made, non-mined or non-free-range diamonds?

More bling for your buck

All consumers need to know is that a lab-grown diamond is still a diamond. Lab-grown diamonds are sustainable and therefore eco-friendly, and they are also conflict-free. Because they are not mined, they often cost slightly less.  It makes them ideal for non-bridal and more casual gifts.  Some appropriate occasions are bar/bat mitzvahs, quinceaneras, sweet 16s, graduations and so on. A lab-grown diamond does not need to be a substitute to a mined diamond; it can have its own space in the market and the special moments in our lives.

“It’s not synthetic; it’s not a simulant, it’s not a fake. It is in no way less than and should not be seen as such.” – Ahuva Nazarian from True Grown Diamonds.

Finally the recognition it deserves.

 




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