Natural diamonds are composed of pure carbon, being the hardest known natural stones. Diamonds are also the most popular gemstones, their qualities being invaluable in various large-scale industries. Luster and hardness are characteristics that steal not only the eye, but also the heart. Forever.


If you've wondered what the differences are between natural and synthetic diamonds and how to tell the difference between the 2 types, read this material to find out what you need to pay attention to.


What is a synthetic or artificial diamond?


By synthetic or man-made diamond is meant a man-made diamond, which is usually produced by subjecting graphite to very high temperatures and pressures. Synthetic diamond resembles natural diamond, retaining its hardness and transparency. Although with the naked eye you cannot differentiate between the 2 types of diamonds, special devices will clarify their nature. Although they are similar, there are 3 big differences between the 2: The way of formation, the time of formation and their location. Natural diamonds are formed in the earth's crust and need millions, even billions of years to come to the surface of the earth, pushed by volcanic eruptions. In the case of synthetic diamonds, the production processes involve advanced technologies and a relatively short time. At the same time, the price of artificial diamonds is up to 30% lower.


You buy a natural diamond or a synthetic one


The purchase decision is yours. We cannot tell you what to buy, instead we can help you with additional information that will contribute to the purchase process. Comparing the 2 types of diamonds, here are the results:

  • Both types of diamonds are durable and resistant.
  • Both are made of pure carbon.
  • Synthetic diamonds have better clarity, the way of formation being different and controlled.
  • Natural diamonds have inclusions due to the way they are formed and the long time required for their formation.
  • It should be noted that synthetic diamonds are real diamonds. They have the same chemical composition and physical properties as natural diamonds.
  • The price is higher for natural diamonds, this being justified by formation, extraction, and processing.


Alternatives for a smaller budget


Nothing compares to the brilliance of a natural diamond. It is an experience in itself. However, if your budget does not allow such a purchase, there are alternatives.


· Moissanite - Moissanite was first discovered by Henri Moissan in 1893 in a crater in Arizona and was named in his honor. Moissanite in nature is extremely rare, so much so that all moissanite on the market is created in a laboratory. Natural moissanite is found only in a few places in the rocks of the upper mantle and mainly in meteorites. This connection to outer space is why this stone is sometimes called "space diamond" or "stardust". Due to its durability, moissanite can be found in a variety of cuts, giving jewelry designers plenty of options for settings.


· Cubic zirconia CZ - is an inexpensive alternative to diamond, although apparently it looks like a diamond. Cubic zirconia is synthetic, meaning it is created in a laboratory. Due to increased demand, commercial production of CZ began in the 1970s. The differences are colossal, even though the technology in making these stones is so advanced that the untrained eye cannot tell the difference.


If you want to buy a piece of jewelry with natural diamonds, inform yourself beforehand and buy only from stores that can show you the certificate of provenance of the diamonds. Valmand uses only natural precious stones and does not accept the incorporation of artificial or synthetic ones in the jewelry made.