Lab-grown diamonds are atomically and chemically identical to earth mined diamonds. The general consensus about lab grown diamonds is that they’re considerably cheaper and more "ethical" than a modern mined diamond. However the conditions in which these diamonds are created or cut are unclear. For the most part we know they are developed using "socially and environmentally sustainable" methods but as much as that may sound like the best option to purchase, the flip side is knowing and being able to trace whether these labs have a positive carbon footprint and contain zero emissions e.g. energy and water consumption in order to be completely sustainable.

Furthermore, there are labs growing diamonds in the U.S. but a lot of the diamond rough is sent overseas for the material to be cut just like a newly mined natural diamond. With that in mind, do we know what are the labor practices in countries where these diamonds are cut? Do they follow guidelines that pay fair wages to the workers? Are children part of their labor force? Are there international certifications behind their work practices? These are all questions that need to be addressed in order to classify lab-grown diamonds as an eco-friendly and true sustainable option.

At the moment, there is no third-party certification for lab-grown diamonds that can assure sustainability claims and environmental stewardship.

In contrast, newly mined diamonds and their supply chain can be somewhat vague. Certifications such as the Kimberly process are unsuccessful in achieving full accountability and transparency. Although the Kimberly process has significantly reduced the flow of conflict diamonds, it has failed to live up to its promise. The most concerning issue has been attributed to its narrow terms of certification, which focus mainly on the mining and distribution of diamonds, leaving broader problems like exploitative labor policies, child labor, poor working conditions and the displacement of entire communities.

Shopping for newly mined diamonds can ultimately become a disappointing experience, hence the reason why many consumers are preferring and choosing a lab-grown route.

Last but not least, what is a post-consumer recycled diamond? Precious gems and precious metals are materials that can be forever recycled. Metals can be re-worked and re-shaped with almost no material loss. Gems in the entire hardness spectrum can be re-cut and re-polished bringing them back into a new life.

These recycling qualities challenge the need to source these materials from new mining. Recycled diamonds reduce their environmental impact since they’re re-entered in the supply chain from previous owners or estate jewelry auction pieces, making them a true sustainable option and one worth bragging about. Antique diamonds are highlighted with unique personality due to the fact that most were cut prior to 1950s which back then diamonds were intended to perform best during candle, low-lit and natural light conditions. When you see one in person, their unique romance and character is unalike.

At DM Studio, we work with a local vendor in NYC that uses third-party certification (SCS Global Services) for post-consumer diamonds and recycled gemstones.