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What What

What's the difference?

Learn the differences between confusing terms that describe manmade diamonds.

Natural Diamonds

Natural diamonds are among nature's most precious and beautiful creations. It's the hardest gem found on the Earth and made of just one element: carbon. Most diamonds are primeval and form deep within the Earth.

More than 99% of diamonds are now from conflict-free sources and are tracked under the UN mandated Kimberley Process since its inception in 2000.

We love the idea of traceable diamonds! That's why we offer Canada Mark Diamonds. They are responsibly mined, natural and untreated, and tracked through audited processes to comply with the Canadian Diamond Code of Conduct.

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David Douglas Diamonds & Jewelry Marietta, GA

Lab Grown Diamonds

Lab grown diamonds, lab created diamonds, and synthetic diamonds are all terms used to describe diamonds that are made in a laboratory. They are "synthesized" from the same organic material as its natural mineral counterpart.

A lab grown diamond is made from the mineral carbon - just like a natural diamond. Scientists have been synthesizing lab grown gemstones since the 1800s and have been perfecting it ever since!

Here's a quick comparison: You can bring in ice from the Arctic or you can create ice inside your freezer. Both are ice - one is created naturally and the other created in a synthetic environment.

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David Douglas Diamonds & Jewelry Marietta, GA

Simulated Diamonds

Simulated diamonds, diamond simulants, and imitation diamonds are all terms used to describe manufactured and look-alike stones.

A key difference between a synthetic diamond and a simulated diamond is found in its chemical makeup. A simulated diamond is not made from carbon, like a natural diamond, but rather different manmade materials. They're made to look like a diamond but they don't act like a diamond.

Cubic zirconia is the most commonly known simulated diamond. White sapphires, Moissanite gemstones, and white topaz are also used to "imitate" a natural diamond.

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David Douglas Diamonds & Jewelry Marietta, GA

How can I tell the difference?

The difference between a simulated diamond and natural diamond can be seen by comparison or through education. However, without proper, expensive, equipment there is no way to distinguish between lab grown diamonds and earth mined diamonds.

Proper education and transparency is very important when selecting your special gem. We are taking actions in every step to maintain that trust between business and consumer.

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