frequently asked Questions
Diamonds
A lab diamond, also known as a synthetic or manufactured diamond, is a diamond that is grown in a laboratory under controlled conditions rather than forming naturally in the earth. Chemically and optically identical to natural diamonds, laboratory diamonds offer a sustainable and ethical alternative.
Yes, lab diamonds are real diamonds. They have the same chemical, optical and physical structure as natural diamonds, but differ in the way they are formed.
Lab diamonds are created by mimicking the natural processes that lead to diamond formation. They are manufactured using two main processes: the CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition) process and the HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature) process. Both processes use different conditions to grow carbon atoms into diamond crystals.
In the CVD process, a gaseous mixture of carbon compounds is heated in a vacuum chamber. The carbon atoms settle on a diamond growth surface and form the diamond in layers.
The HPHT process uses pressure and heat to form diamond crystals from carbon. A small diamond seed crystal is placed in a pressure chamber and the carbon atoms are deposited at high temperatures and pressures.
The time it takes to create a lab diamond varies depending on size and quality. However, in most cases the process takes several weeks to months.
Yes, lab diamonds are considered more environmentally friendly because they do not require environmentally harmful mining processes and use less energy. They are an ethical choice as they avoid conflict diamonds and promote social responsibility.
It's hard to tell the difference with the naked eye. However, laboratory diamonds can often be identified using certificates that provide proof of origin. Specialized laboratory equipment can also detect differences.
Yes, from a stone of 0.25 carat there is a certificate that contains information about the quality, cut, color, clarity and carat weight of the diamond.
The "4 C's" are a standard term in diamond grading and stand for Carat, Cut, Color and Clarity. These four criteria are crucial for evaluating the quality of a diamond and determining its value.
1. Carat (Carat):
- Size : The carat is the unit of measurement for the weight of a diamond. One carat is equal to 200 milligrams. Diamonds come in different sizes and the larger the diamond, the more valuable it is.
- Typical Sizes : Diamonds can be found in a variety of sizes, from tiny diamonds under 0.10 carats (also called "points") to multiple carats for extravagant jewelry pieces.
2. Cut:
- Cut Quality : Cut refers to the way the diamond has been cut and faceted. A good cut maximizes light reflection and gives the diamond brilliance.
- Proportions : The proportions, facet angles and symmetry of the cut are crucial for quality. The rating ranges from “excellent” to “poor”.
3. Color:
- Color Grade : Diamonds are graded on a scale from D (colorless) to Z (slightly tinted). Diamonds in the D to J range are considered colorless or nearly colorless and are highly sought after.
- Color nuances : The color nuances in a diamond can be difficult to see with the naked eye. Experts use special comparison diamonds to determine the exact color grade.
4. Clarity:
- Clarity Grades : A diamond's clarity refers to the presence of internal inclusions or external features. Diamonds are graded on a scale from "flawless" (no visible inclusions or features) to "pique" (clearly visible inclusions or features).
- Importance of Purity : The purer a diamond is, the more valuable it is. Inclusions can affect a diamond's brilliance, but they can also serve as "fingerprints" that make each diamond unique.
Together, these 4 C's form the basis for evaluating and purchasing diamonds. Depending on personal preferences and budget, buyers can decide which combination of the 4 C's best suits their needs. Choosing a diamond that best meets your priorities in terms of size, cut, color and clarity is the key to creating a valuable and stunning piece of jewelry.
1. Flawless (IF - Internally Flawless):
- Flawless diamonds have no visible inclusions or features, either under 10x magnification or with the naked eye. They are extremely rare and correspondingly expensive.
2. VVS (Very, Very Slightly Included):
- Diamonds in this category have tiny inclusions or features that are difficult to see under 10x magnification. The VVS group is divided into VVS1 (closer to flawless) and VVS2.
3. VS (Very Slightly Included):
- Diamonds in this category have small inclusions or features that are easy to see under 10x magnification but are difficult to see with the naked eye. The VS group is divided into VS1 and VS2.
4. SI (Slightly Included):
- SI diamonds have visible inclusions or features that are easy to see at 10x magnification but are difficult to see with the naked eye. The SI group is divided into SI1 and SI2, with SI1 having fewer inclusions than SI2.
5. Pique (Included):
- Diamonds in this category, also referred to as "pique," have clearly visible inclusions or features that are easily visible both under 10x magnification and with the naked eye. The Pique group is divided into Pique 1 (P1), Pique 2 (P2) and Pique 3 (P3), with P1 having the lowest inclusion amount.
The choice of purity level depends on your personal preferences and budget. Diamonds with higher clarity grades such as IF, VVS and VS are more expensive, while SI and Pique diamonds are generally cheaper. Most SI diamonds have inclusions that are barely noticeable to the naked eye and offer excellent value for money. Choosing the right clarity grade depends on how important clarity is to you in relation to the size, color and cut of the diamond.
Rings
Delivery
Our jewelry is made according to your order and can therefore often take 3-6 weeks.
All our products are insured and shipped with DHL Express. Your delivery can only be accepted with a signature.
Shipping within Germany takes 1-2 days.
