How Do Lab Grown Diamonds Get Cloudy?

Due to excessive UV exposure in this situation, they start to lose their luster. One factor that prevents lab-created diamonds from fading, clouding, or losing their luster over time is the HPHT procedure used to make them.

Do Lab-Grown Diamonds Get Cloudy?

Lab-grown diamonds, also known as synthetic diamonds, are created in a controlled environment using advanced technology. They are virtually identical to natural diamonds in terms of their physical and chemical properties, but they are significantly cheaper than mined diamonds. However, one question that is often asked about lab-grown diamonds is whether or not they can get cloudy over time.

The short answer is that lab-grown diamonds can get cloudy, but it is extremely rare. The vast majority of lab-grown diamonds will maintain their clarity and sparkle for their entire lifetime. However, just like natural diamonds, lab-grown diamonds can be exposed to certain conditions that can cause them to become cloudy.

One of the main causes of cloudiness in lab-grown diamonds is exposure to high temperatures. Extreme heat can cause the carbon atoms in the diamond to become disordered, which can lead to a cloudy appearance. However, this typically only occurs in lab-grown diamonds that have been exposed to temperatures above 800 degrees Celsius. This is a rare occurrence and is not something that you would typically experience in everyday wear.

Another cause of cloudiness in lab-grown diamonds is exposure to harsh chemicals. Certain chemicals, such as chlorine and bleach, can react with the carbon atoms in the diamond and cause cloudiness. Again, this is a rare occurrence and is not something that you would typically experience in everyday wear.

In order to avoid cloudiness in lab-grown diamonds, it is important to take proper care of the diamond. This includes avoiding exposing the diamond to high temperatures and harsh chemicals. It’s also important to make sure the diamond is cleaned and stored properly.

Fluorescence Affects The Visual Appearance Of a Diamond

Unless you are familiar with the process, you might not know how diamond fluorescence affects the visual appearance of lab-grown diamonds. It’s easy to assume that this trait is terrible, but it’s not. It’s a diamond’s color feature and can help some lower-color grades appear more white.

However, fluorescence doesn’t necessarily increase the value of a diamond. Instead, it can reduce the price by about 4 to 10 percent. It can also negatively impact the diamond’s eye appeal and make it look cloudy or milky. It can even be a flaw in some instances.

Although some diamonds can have fluorescence, it’s rarely visible when viewing a diamond in the real world. Unless the diamond is in direct sunlight, it’s likely too far away from the light source to see the effect.

However, if a diamond is viewed under fluorescent light, solid blue fluorescence can positively impact the stone’s appearance. It can mask the yellow body color and make the diamond look whiter. This characteristic can benefit diamonds in the H to Z color range.

A Gemological Institute of America (GIA) study compared diamonds with and without fluorescence. Observers included three groups of jewelry trade members and non-trade observers.

Both trade and non-trade observers could not make a meaningful distinction between diamonds with and without fluorescence. The trade group did, however, see a minor negative impact on the transparency of the diamond. In other words, the diamond looked hazy or “milky.”

The GIA report stated that the smallest amount of fluorescence could have a slight positive effect on the color of the diamond. However, the most pronounced positive effect was in the G and I-K color ranges.

Colored Diamonds Are a Plus For Lab-Grown Diamonds

Unlike natural diamonds, lab-grown diamonds are created in a controlled laboratory environment. They are grown using chemical vapor deposition. This process is more environmentally friendly than mining. It also results in a diamond with the same physical and chemical properties as a mined one.

Colored diamonds are another plus for lab-grown diamonds. These are usually less expensive than their naturally colored counterparts. However, despite their lower price tag, they are durable and will last forever.

However, they lack a resale value compared to natural diamonds. This is because trace elements only identify the engineered stones. Moreover, the color of a laboratory-grown diamond is only determined by the temperature, length of heat processing, and other elements added.

Unlike natural diamonds, lab diamonds are not always flawless. Some include streaky inclusions that are invisible to the naked eye. Therefore, it is best to choose a cut that maximizes the sparkle of your diamond.

GIA certifications are now considered the gold standard in lab-grown diamond grading reports. The report includes a plotted clarity diagram and a complete quality assessment. In addition, add-on services provide additional security for lab-grown diamonds.

Lab-grown diamonds are more abundant and are less expensive than their mined counterparts. Moreover, they are made without destructive mining. They are also conflict-free. Lastly, they are durable and have the same optical and physical properties as mined diamonds.

Lab diamonds are a good choice for couples who want an environmentally friendly ring that will last a lifetime. As a result, many jewelry industry insiders are now recommending lab-grown diamonds to their clients.

While lab-grown diamonds are not for everyone, they are the perfect option for those who want an environmentally friendly diamond that is inexpensive.

Synthetic Diamonds Have Minimal Inclusions And Blemishes

Generally speaking, synthetic diamonds have minimal inclusions and blemishes, and the naked eye does not notice these imperfections. In addition, these gemstones are grown in labs and are often 30 to 50 percent cheaper than natural diamonds.

Synthetic diamonds are formed by heating a mixture of lithium, paraffin, and bone oil. The mixture is then cooled through a water bath. Then, the mix is stored in an electric arc furnace. Eventually, the crystallized form of the diamond is formed.

The diamond will have some trace elements that affect its color and shine during the formation process. These can cause a slight yellow tint.

The resulting crystals may have imperfections visible to the naked eye, which will affect the diamond’s clarity grade. The larger the imperfections, the lower the clarity grade.

The main factors that affect the clarity of a diamond are the size, type, and location of the inclusions. These include pinpoint inclusions, cavities, and bearding. The most common type of diamond inclusion is pinpoints, which are small black spots.

The best clarity grade for a diamond is Internally Flawless. This grade means there are no internal defects. External imperfections and features resulting from diamond enhancement procedures also qualify as inclusions.

However, these imperfections are less noticeable than pinpoint inclusions, and they won’t affect the durability of the stone. Some natural diamonds have significant cracks, but they are rare.

When buying a synthetic diamond, it is essential to look for a certification from GIA or IGI. These agencies provide a grade report that outlines the diamond’s color, cut, and clarity. The report will also include the number of flaws, or inclusions, in the diamond.

Avoid Abrasive, Chemical-Free Cleaning Solutions

Whether you wear your lab-grown diamond jewelry daily or just for special occasions, it is essential to know how to care for it properly. This will keep your diamond shiny and in top shape. It will also help you to prevent damage from dirt and sweat.

The best way to clean your diamond is to use a quality jewelry-cleaning solution. You can purchase one online or from your local jewelry store. Some of these solutions contain a soft cloth and a cleaning brush.

When you use this type of cleaner, you should read the label on the packaging. Some of them include abrasives, which can scratch or damage your diamond. However, you can find chemical-free, non-abrasive solutions online. These will also give you satisfactory results.

Try using baking soda to clean your diamond. A 1-2 tablespoon powder mixed with boiling water will form a paste. Apply this mixture to your diamond and leave it for a few minutes. After that, rinse the diamond with clean water. The residue left behind should be cleaned with a dry, soft cloth.

Another good option is to use a steamer. This is a safer alternative to abrasive cleaners, as the steaming process will disinfect your jewelry. You will want to use a lint-free cloth to dry your engagement ring.

There are also unique polishing clothes for your diamond. These are designed to gently polish the diamond without leaving marks. These will also remove dust and dirt.

It is also recommended to clean your diamond regularly. Keeping it clean will make it last longer.

Can a Gemologist Tell The Difference Between Lab-Grown And Mined Diamonds

Whether you are a diamond lover or an engagement ring buyer, it is essential to know the difference between natural and lab-grown diamonds. Unfortunately, as the demand for lab-grown diamonds increases, it has created a lot of confusion.

To identify which diamond is lab-created and which is a mined diamond, you need specialized equipment and an experienced gemologist. Typically, these stones have slight inclusions that are hard to see with the naked eye.

Luckily, jewelers have a few methods that will allow them to tell the difference between lab and natural diamonds. For example, some lab stones will show grayish tones or blue colors.

Another method is to send the diamond to a specialized laboratory for identification. For example, the GIA offers an exceptional report service for lab-grown diamonds.

A gemologist can tell the difference between natural and lab-created diamonds through a powerful microscope. These tests could be more foolproof, though.

Lab-grown diamonds also vary in durability, clarity, and price. For example, a lab diamond with an excellent cut can sparkle just as much as a natural diamond. However, the resale value of a lab stone will be lower than that of a natural stone.

Some lab stones have metallic inclusions, but these inclusions are rare to see without magnification tools. This includes crystal strain and streaky inclusions in the stone. This causes fuzzy optics and a decrease in the sparkle.

Whether you want a pink, gray, or colorless diamond, lab-grown diamonds can provide you with the same beauty and brilliance as natural diamonds. In addition, the cost of these manufactured stones has come down in the last few years, making them more affordable than ever.

FAQ’s

What causes lab grown diamonds to become cloudy?

Lab grown diamonds can become cloudy due to a number of factors, including impurities in the diamond growing process, improper cutting and polishing, or exposure to high temperatures and chemicals.

Can lab grown diamonds become cloudy over time?

Yes, lab grown diamonds can become cloudy over time due to exposure to the elements or through wear and tear.

Can a cloudy lab grown diamond be restored to its original clarity?

In some cases, a cloudy lab grown diamond can be restored to its original clarity through professional cleaning and polishing. However, if the cloudiness is caused by impurities in the diamond growing process, it may not be possible to restore the diamond to its original clarity.

How can I prevent my lab grown diamond from becoming cloudy?

To prevent your lab grown diamond from becoming cloudy, it’s important to avoid exposing it to high temperatures and chemicals, and to handle it with care to avoid scratches and chips.

Are lab grown diamonds more likely to become cloudy than natural diamonds?

Lab grown diamonds are not necessarily more likely to become cloudy than natural diamonds, but they may be more susceptible to impurities or improper cutting and polishing.

Can I tell if a lab grown diamond is cloudy just by looking at it?

It can be difficult to tell if a lab grown diamond is cloudy just by looking at it, as the cloudiness may not be visible to the naked eye. A professional gemologist or jeweler can examine the diamond under a microscope to determine if it is cloudy.

Are there any specific lab grown diamond brands or manufacturers that are known for producing cloudy diamonds?

Some lab grown diamond brands or manufacturers may have a higher incidence of producing cloudy diamonds due to poor quality control or manufacturing processes. It’s important to research and choose a reputable brand or manufacturer to minimize the risk of purchasing a cloudy lab grown diamond.