Have you ever taken notice of a tinge of azure within your devoid-of-color lab-fabricated diamond betrothal band? Rest assured, you are not alone in this observation.
The manifestation of a cerulean radiance in lab-grown diamonds is not merely a consequence of diamond fluorescence. Rather, this intriguing optical phenomenon is commonly known as the “blue nuance” in synthetic diamonds.
Now, let us embark upon an exploration of the subsequent inquiries:
- Does the phenomenon of blue nuance share similarities with fluorescence?
- Can blue nuance be identified and documented in a grading report for lab-grown diamonds?
- Do lab-grown diamonds exhibiting blue nuance tend to possess a lower price point?
Decoding the Enigma of Blue Nuance within Laboratory-Created Diamonds
Purchasing laboratory-grown diamonds has gained immense popularity in recent times, and the reasons behind this trend are abundantly clear. The advantages of opting for a lab-grown diamond over its natural counterpart are numerous. However, it is essential to address the prevailing misconceptions and misunderstandings surrounding synthetic diamond jewelry.
The production of lab-created diamonds primarily involves two distinct techniques: HPHT (high-pressure high-temperature) diamonds and CVD (chemical vapor deposition) diamonds. Within the realm of HPHT diamonds, the occurrence of a naturally bluish tint, known as blue nuance, is not uncommon. In some instances, this bluish hue might even exhibit hints of green.
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Much like how colorless diamonds of natural origin may possess inherent brown or yellow tinges caused by nitrogen impurities, a parallel can be drawn in the case of lab-grown diamonds. During the HPHT process, an overabundance of boron impurities can become embedded within the crystal structure as it undergoes growth.
Type IIa vs Type IIb Lab Grown Diamonds
Now, things might become a tad perplexing if you’re not particularly inclined towards scientific knowledge or lack expertise in chemistry. Hence, it would be advisable to refer to the provided link if you’re unfamiliar with how lab grown diamonds are made.
Back in the 1930s, experts in the realm of diamonds aimed to categorize the atomic structure of these precious gemstones according to their color and physical characteristics. While diamonds essentially consist of pure carbon, their crystal lattice can undergo transformations during the growth phase. Boron and nitrogen impurities pose a potential influence on diamonds as they can substitute atoms in the crystal framework.
During the growth process of lab-grown diamonds, when a diamond seed is utilized, minute amounts of nitrogen and boron are introduced to the evolving structure of the synthetic diamond.
In the past, diamonds were broadly categorized into Type I and Type II. However, advancements in diamond classification have led to the identification of more refined distinctions, resulting in the recognition of Type Ia, Type Ib, Type IIa, and Type IIb diamonds.
Type Ia – Approximately 95% of naturally occurring diamonds belong to the Type Ia classification, denoting their prevalent nitrogen atom clusters nestled within the crystalline arrangement. Certain Type Ia diamonds are occasionally referred to as “cape diamonds,” owing to their geographical origin in the Cape Province of South Africa.
Type Ib – These particular diamonds exhibit an absence of quantifiable nitrogen or boron impurities. They commonly manifest as colorless, possessing a pristine, icy white appearance. However, it is noteworthy that they can also display hues of gray, pale brown, light pink, or light yellow. These diamonds belong to the highest echelon of purity among all diamond classifications.
Type IIa – Contrary to their clustered counterparts, nitrogen impurities in these diamonds exist as individual atoms. This distinct configuration gives rise to a vivid yellow shade, which is commonly associated with the term “canary yellow diamonds.” It’s important to note that canary diamonds encompass a unique range of vibrant yellow intensities, setting them apart from other fancy yellow diamonds.
Type IIb – Diamonds of these classifications are attributed to the emergence of blue and bluish-gray hues. Moreover, they possess the intriguing characteristic of electrical conductivity. These diamonds exhibit notable concentrations of boron. It is important to emphasize that diamonds showcasing pronounced and vibrant blue tones are exceptionally scarce.
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Difference Between Blue Nuance from Diamond Fluorescence
Fluorescence, an optical phenomenon observed in both naturally mined diamonds and lab-grown diamonds, can manifest across various diamond types. When subjected to ultraviolet (UV) light, such as direct sunlight, a diamond or gemstone exhibiting fluorescence emits a blue glow. The presence of boron, nitrogen, or aluminum within the diamond’s structure may contribute to its fluorescence.
The presence of fluorescence in colorless diamonds is typically documented in the diamond’s grading report or certificate. It is worth noting that while not all diamonds exhibit fluorescence, a considerable number of them do. Fluorescence levels can range from Strong, Medium, Faint, to none at all. However, it is important to highlight that if your lab-grown diamond engagement ring displays blue nuance, such a characteristic might not be explicitly indicated on its accompanying diamond certificate.
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Blue nuance and fluorescence are optical phenomena that bear no influence on the durability of your diamond, much like the bow-tie effect observed in oval diamonds. Regardless of whether a diamond possesses fluorescence or blue nuance, its brilliance remains unaltered, reflecting light with equal radiance.
It is essential to comprehend that diamond fluorescence manifests as a blue glow when the diamond is exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light. While both mined and lab-grown diamonds can exhibit strong fluorescence, it is exclusive to lab-created diamonds produced through the HPHT process to possess blue nuance. Blue-nuanced diamonds exhibit a blue tint regardless of the lighting conditions, distinguishing them from fluorescence, which is UV light-dependent.
Difference Between Blue Lab-Grown Diamonds and Lab-Grown Diamonds with Blue Nuance
A diamond that showcases a vivid and intense blue coloration is referred to as a blue diamond. These blue diamonds represent an exceptionally rare subset among the fancy color diamond category. However, it is important to differentiate lab-grown diamonds with blue nuance from fancy blue diamonds. While fancy blue diamonds can originate naturally or be created in a laboratory, lab-grown diamonds displaying blue nuance do not fall within the category of fancy blue diamonds.
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The captivating blue hue witnessed in blue diamonds can also be attributed to the presence of boron impurities, akin to the blue nuance observed in lab-grown diamonds. The intensity of blue tones in blue diamonds can vary, often accompanied by secondary hues.
However, it’s noteworthy that HPHT lab-grown diamonds exhibiting blue nuance typically lack secondary colors and the same level of saturation. Blue nuance imparts subtle bluish undertones to the diamond rather than an overall blue coloration throughout its entirety.
Naturally mined diamonds displaying fancy blue tones are scarce and command high prices, alleviating concerns about inadvertently purchasing a lab diamond instead of a blue nuance specimen.
It is crucial to bear in mind that a diamond’s grading report unequivocally clarifies whether it is a lab-grown diamond or a fancy colored diamond. Therefore, prioritizing certified diamonds ensures a reliable and accurate purchase every time.
Frequently Asked Questions About Blue Nuance
Does the Presence of Blue Nuance in a Lab-Grown Diamond Have Negative Implications?
Similar to fluorescence, blue nuance observed in lab-grown diamonds is an optical phenomenon that does not impact the diamond’s durability. However, it does have certain implications worth considering.
Pay close attention.
In some instances, HPHT lab-grown diamonds exhibiting a pronounced blue nuance may receive a lower color grade on grading reports. During the grading process, diamonds are evaluated when placed upside down. The overall presence of color within the diamond determines its color grade. As blue nuance in lab-grown diamonds is noticeable under all lighting conditions, the intensity of the blue nuance becomes a factor in determining the diamond’s color grade.
Another aspect to consider is that certain inexpensive diamond testers may incorrectly identify HPHT diamonds with a significant blue nuance as non-genuine diamonds, despite the fact that all lab-grown diamonds are indeed real diamonds. The presence of boron impurities triggers a misinterpretation by the tester.
To be frank, diamond testers, regardless of whether they are used on lab-grown or natural diamonds, can be quite temperamental. They may yield erroneous results if applied with excessive force or at an improper angle. It would be unwise to solely rely on a diamond tester as the sole determinant of a diamond’s authenticity. We’ve previously covered how to tell a real diamond by eye. Read the guide if you are not sure.
Is It True That Every Lab-Grown Diamond Possesses Blue Nuance?
As you are already aware, CVD diamonds do not exhibit the characteristic blue nuance observed in HPHT diamonds. Nonetheless, it is important to note that both lab-grown diamond processes can be susceptible to phosphorescence and fluorescence.
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Furthermore, it is worth highlighting that blue nuance is not universally present in all HPHT diamonds. The HPHT diamond production method has the ability to yield colorless diamonds devoid of any faint blue undertones. It should be noted that the blue nuance observed in HPHT diamonds is not exclusively characterized by strong blue hues; rather, it can manifest as a subtle and delicate light blue tint as well.
What Are the Indicators to Determine if a Blue Hue Is Present in My Lab-Grown Diamond?
Traditional jewelry stores have recently begun incorporating lab-grown diamond engagement rings into their inventory, primarily focusing on natural diamonds in the past. Nevertheless, it is important to note that the knowledge regarding blue nuance among retail employees at these establishments may be limited.
Additionally, access to a thorough inspection of all lab-grown diamonds might be restricted. Furthermore, it is common for a significant portion of lab-grown diamond engagement rings available at retailers like Jared and Zales to lack certification for their lab-grown diamonds.
Buying Certified Lab-Grown Diamonds
Acquiring a certified lab-grown diamond holds utmost significance, as it is imperative to ensure the authenticity and quality of the center diamond in your purchase. Regrettably, physical stores often offer a limited selection of certified diamonds, and when available, they tend to be priced unreasonably higher.
However, delving into the realm of online searching for lab-grown diamonds can be a perplexing journey. Despite the presence of interactive 360˚ videos, discerning the presence of blue nuance in diamonds can still pose a challenge. Numerous online retailers provide filters to facilitate the selection based on fluorescence, yet the availability of filters specifically tailored to identify blue nuance remains scarce.
Use 360˚ Viewers and High-Definition (HD) Photos Offered Online
In the event that identifying the presence of blue color in your lab-grown diamond proves challenging through video or high-definition images, certain lab diamond grading reports may provide information regarding whether the diamond is an HPHT or CVD diamond. However, the task of determining the presence of blue nuance ultimately rests upon your own observation and judgment.
Seek Guidance From an Expert Specializing in Lab-Grown Diamonds
Identifying blue nuance in lab-grown diamonds can pose a challenge when shopping online. However, it is reassuring to know that many reputable online retailers employ diamond specialists who can assist you in selecting a diamond free from any subtle blue undertones, should you prefer. It is crucial to ensure that you make your purchase from a trustworthy online retailer that offers a favorable and hassle-free return policy, providing peace of mind in case blue nuance does not align with your preferences.
Lab-Grown Diamonds Exhibit Variations That Set Them Apart From One Another
Despite two lab-grown diamonds having identical grades, there exist numerous distinguishing factors that set them apart. Lab diamonds cultivated through the HPHT growth method may showcase a gentle blue tint, which remains visible under various lighting conditions, distinguishing it from conventional diamond fluorescence.
Blue nuance in lab diamonds is a matter of personal preference rather than a decisive factor. Some individuals appreciate the subtle hue, while others prefer to avoid any tint in their diamonds. The same applies to fluorescence, with varying preferences among individuals.
The majority of diamond seekers aim to find colorless diamonds devoid of any hues. In some cases, lab diamonds that initially exhibit a blue nuance can undergo treatment to reduce the presence of boron. This treatment results in a more grayish tint rather than a distinct bluish hue.
It is always advisable to purchase diamonds from reputable online retailers that provide reliable diamond certificates issued by trusted grading laboratories. I would suggest exploring Clean Origin, our recommended dealer specializing exclusively in lab-grown diamonds. Their inventory solely consists of lab diamonds, without a single mined diamond in sight. They offer comprehensive videos that allow you to closely examine diamonds with blue nuance.
Additionally, all of their diamonds come with certifications from esteemed institutions such as GCAL, GIA, and IGI, which provide detailed information about the diamond’s growth process.
Rest assured that if you find it challenging to identify which diamonds in their collection possess blue nuance, there is no need for concern, as a team of knowledgeable diamond specialists is readily available to assist you. Furthermore, it is worth noting that their commitment to customer satisfaction includes a generous 100-day return policy, ensuring that you have ample time to evaluate your purchase and make sure it aligns with your expectations.
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