FAQ
1. What’s the difference between Natural and Lab Grown Diamonds?
Natural diamonds are mined from the earth and are commonly known as earth-mined diamonds. In contrast, lab-grown diamonds are created in a laboratory. As such, the chemical composition is virtually identical to natural diamond.
GIA has written an excellent article on the subject:
https://www.gia.edu/gia-news-research/difference-between-natural-laboratory-grown-diamonds
There are currently two methods for producing lab-grown diamonds:
- a) HPHT is an abbreviation for “High-Pressure High Temperature.” We do not use HPHT material to produce Brian Gavin Signature Lab-grown diamonds because sedimentary-like layers of brown undertones are a side-effect of the process.
- b) CVD is an abbreviation for “Carbon Vapor Deposition.” Brian Gavin uses select CVD material that is grown in Texas. After years of research, we partnered with an amazing Company “Clarity” that has a unique patented growing process.
Unlike most companies, Clarity is able to grow the crystals in one shot irrespective of size. In contrast, other growers must interrupt the process and create the crystals with multiple layers.
In addition, the lab-grown crystals by Clarity do not undergo any post-process treatments, whereas most lab-created CVD diamonds require treatment to improve color. For example, Lightbox has to use a post-process treatment to improve the perception of color.
The advantage of using the higher grade material by Clarity is that it has greater transparency. Coupled with the Brian Gavin patented process for exacting light performance (patent #link) we’re able to provide you with the most brilliant and sparkly Lab-grown Hearts and Arrows diamonds on a global scale.
2. Why is BGD selling Lab-Grown Diamonds now?
We are providing our clients with the option to buy Hearts and Arrows lab-grown diamonds by popular demand. In other words, we are responding to a growing number of client requests for lab-grown diamonds that exhibit the superior performance that our patented process delivers.
Brian feels that it’s our responsibility to provide our clients with the best sparkle factor available. In that case, we’ve spent the past two years researching the various methods of growing lab-created diamonds. As a result, we’re able to provide our customers with another first in the realm of high-performance diamonds.
3. Wasn’t BGD against Lab-Grown Diamonds? Did you change your opinion?
We were not against lab-grown diamonds, but don’t think that they offer the same value as natural, earth-mined diamonds.
Ultimately, we just want to ensure that our clients get the best sparkle factor available whether they prefer natural or lab-grown diamonds.
4. Are BG Lab Diamonds the same as Brian Gavin Signature Natural Diamonds?
Brian Gavin Lab-grown diamonds are cut to the same exacting standards as our natural Signature diamonds. In that case, the proportions and the degree of optical precision are comparable. It’s the combination of those factors that produce the exceptional light performance that defines our brand.
5. Now that you have BG Lab Diamonds, why should I buy a Natural Diamond?
Let’s be real. There is an inherent value with natural diamonds that is undeniable. There is also something magical and mythical about natural diamonds that lab-grown diamonds will never be able to duplicate.
It takes billions of years for natural diamonds to form deep down within the earth. In contrast, the growing cycle for lab-created diamonds is relatively brief.
There is also the premise that natural diamonds are forever, but the life cycle of lab-created diamonds is yet to be determined.
Our research shows that the majority of brides prefer natural diamonds. Obviously, there is a small percentage of people who see value in spending less to achieve a similar look. However, it stands to reason that the majority of people feel like something is lost in translation (or the transaction).
6. How do I know that my Signature Diamond is Natural and NOT Lab-Grown?
There are multiple differentiating signs.
- 1. You can only find Natural diamonds on the main Brian Gavin site, on Rare and Brian Gavin Black, just as you can only buy Lab-Grown Diamonds on the BGD Lab-grown diamonds site
- 2. All lab-grown diamonds are stored off-site by a designated custodian. In other words, lab-grown diamonds are held in a different location. Whereas natural diamonds are stored on the premises.
Maintaining that “Firewall” enables us to maintain strict control and separate our natural and lab-grown diamond inventories. Lab-grown diamonds will be transferred to our location after you place an order and the fulfillment process begins. - 3. The diamond grading reports clearly indicate whether the stone is a Natural diamond or Lab-grown diamond.
- 4. Black by Brian Gavin, Brian Gavin Signature, Blue, and other collections of natural Brian Gavin Diamonds, bear the respective Brian Gavin logo/mark on the girdle edge. In contrast, lab-grown diamonds only bear the document number and the words LAB GROWN so that the origin is unmistakable.
7. Can I upgrade my BG Lab Diamond to another BG Lab Diamond?
Yes. However, the trade-in value will be determined based on current market conditions for lab-grown diamonds.
8. Can I upgrade my BG Lab Diamond to BDG Signature Natural Diamond?
Yes. However, the trade-in value will be determined based on current market conditions for lab-grown diamonds.
9. Can I upgrade my BDG Signature Natural Diamond to a BG Lab Diamond?
At this time we do not facilitate trade-ins from natural to lab-grown diamonds.
10. Will you buy back my Lab-grown diamond?
Yes. However, the value will be determined based on current market conditions for lab-grown diamonds.
11. What is the return policy?
15 days same as BGD Signature.
12. Where are the lab-grown diamonds being held?
All lab-grown diamonds are held at the factory until an order is placed.
13. Can I make an appointment to see a lab-grown in person?
Yes, with a minimum of 48-hours notice.
14. Can I special order a lab-grown diamond?
Yes. However, it is a custom, non-returnable, non-refundable purchase.