1. What are lab-grown diamonds?
Lab-grown diamonds, also known as cultured diamonds, are diamonds that are created in a laboratory setting rather than mined from the Earth.
2. How are lab-grown diamonds created?
Lab-grown diamonds are created using two main methods: High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD). Both methods simulate the natural conditions under which diamonds form in the Earth’s mantle.
3. Are lab-grown diamonds real diamonds?
Lab-grown diamonds, also known as cultured Yes, lab-grown diamonds have the same chemical composition, physical properties, and optical characteristics as natural diamonds. They are real diamonds in every sense.
4. What are the benefits of choosing lab-grown diamonds?
- Ethical and eco-friendly: Lab-grown diamonds are produced with minimal environmental impact and without the ethical concerns associated with diamond mining.
- Cost-effective: Lab-grown diamonds typically cost 70-80% less than natural diamonds of comparable quality.
- Consistency: Lab-grown diamonds offer consistent quality and are free from the natural flaws and impurities often found in mined or natural diamonds.
5. How can I distinguish between a lab-grown diamond and a natural diamond?
No individual in this world can distinguish between the lab-grown diamonds and mined or natural diamonds using the naked eye. Lab-grown diamonds possess the same physical and chemical properties as natural diamonds, making them virtually indistinguishable without specialized equipment. However, most lab-grown diamonds are laser-inscribed with a microscopic mark to identify them as laboratory-grown.
6. Are lab-grown diamonds certified?
Yes, lab-grown diamonds can be certified by reputable gemological laboratories just like natural diamonds. Common certifications include those from the website selling the diamonds like Espira Gems certified, Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and the International Gemological Institute (IGI).
7. Do lab-grown diamonds come in different shapes and sizes?
Yes, lab-grown diamonds are available in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and qualities, just like natural diamonds. This includes popular shapes such as round, princess, cushion, and emerald cuts, among others. Espira Gems has multiple shapes and sizes to suit your choice.
8. Are lab-grown diamonds suitable for engagement rings and fine jewellery?
Absolutely! Lab-grown diamonds are an excellent choice for engagement rings, wedding bands, and other fine jewellery pieces. They offer the same brilliance, durability, and timeless beauty as natural diamonds.
9. How do lab-grown diamonds compare in terms of durability and longevity?
Lab-grown diamonds have the same hardness and durability as natural diamonds, making them suitable for everyday wear and capable of lasting a lifetime with proper care.
10. Which lab-grown diamonds are used by Espira Gems?
We predominantly use lab-grown diamonds created using CVD method for stones larger than 0.20 carats and lab-grown diamonds created using HPHT method for smaller stones.
11. Do lab-grown diamonds fog up or fade or turn yellow or dull in lustre or shine?
Espira gems offers a life time warranty on its lab-grown diamonds and no, lab-grown diamonds do not fade. Lab-grown diamonds have the same chemical composition, physical properties, and optical characteristics as natural diamonds. They are composed of carbon atoms arranged in a crystal lattice structure, just like natural diamonds.
The colour, brilliance, and overall appearance of lab-grown diamonds are permanent and do not diminish over time. These diamonds undergo the same rigorous testing and grading processes as natural diamonds and are known for their durability and long-lasting beauty.
It’s important to note that lab-grown diamonds, like natural diamonds, can be affected by external factors such as dirt, oils, and other contaminants, which can temporarily affect their brilliance and sparkle. However, with proper cleaning and maintenance, lab-grown diamonds can maintain their beauty and shine for a lifetime.
12. What authenticity certificates are provided with the jewellery?
All our stones above 1 carat come with IGI certification. For stones smaller than 1 carat, there is no certification. For jewellery with smaller than 1 carat stones, an alternate certification like EGL/SGL/HRD will be provided. All jewellery items are BIS Hallmark compliant with a unique code engraved on each item.
1. What is your return/exchange policy for lab-grown diamonds? How long does it take for refunds to show up?
We offer a 7 day no questions asked return policy subject to a 2.95% deduction against transaction charges and secure courier / freight charges. The customers need to inform us within 7 days of delivery of the jewellery. We cannot accept returns after the closure of return window of 7 days under any circumstance. We also offer an upgrade policy called Go Bigger Go Better wherein the customer can exchange their previous purchases with new larger pieces which are minimum 1.5x value of the earlier purchased item along with certain terms and conditions. In case of a refund, it takes 5-7 working days to refund the amount from our end and it might take a further 7-10 working days for it to reflect in your bank account or card statement.
2. How long will it take to ship my order?
Each item is individually manufactured based on the size and mental specification selected hence it will usually take 12-14 working days to ship confirmed and paid orders. All international orders too will take 12-14 days to ship.
3. How long will it take to deliver my order once shipped?
Once shipped, the domestic order is delivered within 2-3 business days across India. In some cases where the pin code is not easily accessible, it might take upto 5 business days to deliver the order.
For international orders, we use express shipping and the transit time may vary from 7 days to 14 days and could take longer in case of customs clearance delays.
4. When do you have a sale on the website?
We at Espira Gems, one of the leading lab grown diamond jewellery platform strive to provide the best value for money to our valued patrons at all times and do not have any sales or marked down pricing on occasions.