Advancements in Lab-Grown Diamonds
The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) recently examined a lab-grown diamond that sets a new record. Its Hong Kong laboratory had the opportunity to study a 34.59-carat diamond, called the ‘Pride of India’ marking the largest faceted lab-grown diamond that the GIA has ever tested.
The diamond was produced by Ethereal Green Diamond, a company based in Mumbai that utilises the Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) process. The 34.59-carat diamond’s dimensions are 24.94 x 13.95 x 9.39mm.
The last record holder was a 30.18 carat diamond, also called the ‘Pride of India’, it was produced in 2022. The diamond was examined by the IGI and also made by Ethereal Green Diamond.
Characteristics and Quality of the Diamond
This emerald-cut lab-grown diamond has been graded as a G colour and VS2 clarity by the GIA. A notable characteristic is the presence of small black graphite inclusions, which are either within the diamond’s body or forming clusters between the diamond’s growth layers.
Additionally, the diamond features a weak “oily” or wavy graining on the table facet, which is often observed in gem-quality CVD diamonds. It also underwent a high-pressure, high-temperature (HPHT) annealing post-growth, a common practice used to enhance the diamond’s colour.
Observations from the Diamond Examination
The GIA’s examination of this diamond provides insight into the considerable progress in CVD diamond growth technology. The ability to increase the size of the diamond by 14% within a year is a clear indicator of the fast-paced advancements in this sector.
The GIA also noted the growth striations typically seen in CVD diamonds through fluorescence imaging. This suggests that the growth process remains consistent, even with the increase in diamond size.
Implications for the UK Jewellery Industry
The examination of this record-breaking lab-grown diamond has important implications for the UK jewellery industry. Primarily, it signals the rapid progression in lab-grown diamond technology. The capacity to produce larger, high-quality diamonds via the CVD process may pose a challenge to the traditional diamond market, positioning lab-grown diamonds as a more compelling alternative.
Moreover, the diamond’s quality and size could help shift perceptions about lab-grown diamonds. For consumers prioritising sustainability and ethical sourcing, these advancements can provide more options without sacrificing quality or aesthetics.
The UK jewellery industry may need to adapt to these changes, embracing the rise of lab-grown diamonds and integrating them into their product lines. This could lead to new avenues for growth and innovation.
Lastly, with India emerging as a key player in the production of large, lab-grown diamonds, the UK jewellery industry might see opportunities for diversified supply chains and new partnerships.
In summary, the 34.59-carat lab-grown diamond showcases the potential of CVD technology and is likely to influence the future direction of the jewellery industry.
