Ethica Diamonds

Lab grown diamonds are dazzling gemstones meticulously crafted in controlled laboratory environments. These marvels of modern science replicate the extreme pressure and high temperatures (over 2,500°C or 4,532°F) found deep within the Earth's mantle, mimicking the natural diamond formation process in a much shorter timeframe. They boast the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as mined diamonds, resulting in a stunning and ethically sourced alternative.

Here's a deeper dive into how lab grown diamonds are created:

• Mimicking Nature's Process: Scientists use two main methods to create lab grown diamonds: High-Pressure High-Temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD). Both methods recreate the natural diamond formation environment but with greater control and efficiency.
• High-Pressure High-Temperature (HPHT): This method utilizes a diamond seed, a tiny piece of diamond used as a starting point. The seed is subjected to immense pressure exceeding 1.5 million atmospheres and scorching temperatures exceeding 2,500°C (4,532°F). This extreme environment forces carbon atoms within the seed to rearrange and crystallize into the flawless diamond structure we know and love.
• Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD): This cutting-edge technique involves placing a diamond seed in a vacuum chamber filled with a hydrocarbon gas (like methane). An energy source (often microwave radiation) breaks down the gas into its atomic components. The freed carbon atoms then bond to the seed layer by layer, gradually building a rough diamond over time. This method allows for precise control over the diamond's growth patterns and can produce diamonds with specific characteristics.

The result? Lab grown diamonds boast the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as mined diamonds. They possess the same brilliance, fire, and sparkle, making them indistinguishable to the naked eye. They can also be graded using the same diamond grading system (4Cs: carat, cut, clarity, color), ensuring you receive a high-quality stone. But unlike mined diamonds, lab-grown diamonds offer a stunning and ethically sourced alternative.

Absolutely! The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) recognises lab grown diamonds as genuine diamonds. This means they share the same essential characteristics that define a diamond:

• Atomic Structure: Lab grown diamonds possess the same carbon atomic structure (arranged in a specific 3D pattern) as mined diamonds. This structure is responsible for a diamond's hardness, brilliance, and fire.
• Physical and Chemical Properties: Lab grown diamonds exhibit the same physical and chemical properties as mined diamonds. They have the same hardness (10 on Mohs scale), refractive index (how light bends as it passes through), and thermal conductivity.
• Optical Properties: The most important aspect for many, lab grown diamonds are indistinguishable to the naked eye from mined diamonds. They display the same brilliance, fire (play of light colours), and scintillation (sparkle) as their mined counterparts.

Here's what makes lab grown diamonds different:

• Origin: Mined diamonds are formed naturally over millions of years deep within the Earth's mantle under extreme pressure and temperature. Lab grown diamonds, however, are created in controlled laboratory environments using advanced technology in a much shorter timeframe.
• Environmental Impact: The mining process for diamonds can have a significant impact on the environment. Lab grown diamonds offer a more eco friendly alternative with a smaller carbon footprint. At Ethica, all of our lab grown diamonds are created using renewable energy where possible and carbon offsetting.

When it comes to the 4Cs (carat, cut, clarity, colour) used for diamond grading, lab grown diamonds can be graded using the same system. This ensures you can receive a high quality stone with the specific characteristics you desire, just like with a mined diamond.

So, while the origin story differs, lab grown diamonds are every bit as real as mined diamonds in terms of their physical and optical properties, making them a dazzling and ethical choice.

Lab grown diamonds are meticulously crafted in controlled laboratory environments using two main methods: High-Pressure High-Temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD). Both methods precisely mimic the extreme conditions found deep within the Earth's mantle, but in a much faster and more sustainable way.

1. High-Pressure High-Temperature (HPHT):

This method closely replicates the natural diamond formation process over millions of years, condensed into a matter of weeks. Here's a closer look:

• Diamond Seed: The process begins with a tiny, high quality diamond seed, typically a microscopic fragment of a mined diamond.
• Extreme Pressure and Heat: The seed is placed within a special chamber and subjected to immense pressure exceeding 1.5 million atmospheres (equivalent to the weight of millions of elephants standing on a single point) and scorching temperatures exceeding 2,500°C (4,532°F). These conditions mimic the Earth's mantle environment.
• Carbon Transformation: Under this extreme pressure and heat, the carbon atoms within the seed become agitated and rearrange themselves. They break free from their original crystal structure and bond together in a new, tightly packed diamond structure.
• Crystal Growth: As the carbon atoms rearrange, they gradually bond to the existing diamond seed, causing it to grow layer by layer. This process continues for weeks, slowly forming a rough diamond around the seed.

2. Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD):

This cutting edge technique offers a more precise way to grow diamonds with specific characteristics. Here's a breakdown of the CVD process:

• Vacuum Chamber: A diamond seed is placed inside a vacuum chamber, which has been carefully emptied of most air molecules.
• Hydrocarbon Gas Introduction: A hydrocarbon gas, such as methane, is introduced into the chamber.
• Energy Source Activation: An energy source, often microwave radiation or a plasma torch, is activated. This intense energy breaks down the hydrocarbon gas molecules into their individual carbon atoms.
• Diamond Seed Attraction: The freed carbon atoms are attracted to the negatively charged diamond seed due to an electrical charge introduced into the chamber.
• Layer-by-Layer Growth: The carbon atoms bond to the seed layer by layer, gradually building up a rough diamond over time. This process can take several hours to days depending on the desired size and thickness of the diamond.

Both HPHT and CVD methods result in the creation of rough diamonds. These rough diamonds then undergo cutting and polishing processes to achieve the desired brilliance, fire, and sparkle we associate with finished diamonds.

Moissanite is a naturally occurring gemstone discovered in 1893 by the renowned French scientist Dr. Henri Moissan. It wasn't initially recognised as a new gem but mistaken for diamonds due to its exceptional brilliance. Moissanite is a rare mineral, typically found in meteorites or formed under extreme geological conditions. However, due to its rarity, almost all moissanite available today is created in laboratories using advanced technology.

What makes moissanite so special?

• Exceptional Brilliance: Moissanite boasts a higher refractive index than diamonds. This means light bends more as it passes through moissanite, resulting in a dazzling display of fire (play of rainbow colours) that can sometimes even surpass that of diamonds. This fiery brilliance is a key characteristic that makes moissanite so sought-after.
• Durable and Long-lasting: Moissanite is incredibly hard, ranking between 9.25 and 9.5 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness. This makes it highly resistant to scratches and chipping, perfect for everyday wear in jewellery. Diamonds hold the top spot at 10 on the Mohs scale, but also contain cleavage planes which can make them susceptible to chipping under certain kinds of pressure. Moissanite does not have this problem, so it is less susceptible to chipping damage within the same context!
• Ethical and Eco Friendly: Unlike mined diamonds, which can have a significant environmental impact and ethical concerns surrounding conflict diamonds, moissanite offers a more sustainable and ethical alternative. Lab created moissanite eliminates these issues while maintaining the beauty and durability of the gemstone. Here at Ethica, we make sure all of our lab grown stones are ethically and sustainably sourced so that you can be rest assured that you are buying a stone which reflects your values.

Here's a break down of how moissanite stacks up against diamonds:

Moissanite has an exceptionally high brilliance due to its high refractive index which gives it a particularly fiery display. It is a very hard material rating between 9.25 and 9.5 Mohs according to the Mohs scale and has a colourless appearance which can range to a yellow hue. Moissanite has a 'double refraction' which is what causes its rainbow sparkle. This lab grown stone is widely available in lab grown form with minimal impact on the environment so you can rest assured that you have a conflict free gem. One other comparison between moissanite and diamond, is that moissanite is considerably more affordable than mined diamonds, or even lab diamonds due to its lower production costs.

Diamonds have an excellent brilliance with a classic sparkle as well as durability to scratching at an impressive 10 Mohs on the Mohs scale of hardness. In appearance, diamonds are generally colourless. Some natural diamonds may have trace elements causing faint colour hues. The availability of mined diamonds can vary, but lab grown diamonds are widely available as they can be made to order. When it comes to ethical considerations, lab grown diamonds are very similar to moissanite. However, mined diamonds are a big risk with their potential for environmental damage and ethical concerns regarding people and planet. Mined diamonds are considerable more expensive than lab grown diamonds and moissanite due to the material and mining costs of their extraction process. Lab diamonds are much more budget friendly for their lower material and production costs, but are still more expensive than moissanite.

The Ethica Diamond® is our signature gemstone, a unique creation that elevates the brilliance of moissanite to a different level. Let's delve deeper into what makes it special:

• Exceptional Quality: The Ethica Diamond® starts with a premium grade, lab grown silicon carbide crystal – the very essence of moissanite. This ensures exceptional brilliance, durability, and ethical sourcing that are inherent to moissanite.

The Ethica Diamond® goes beyond ordinary moissanite with a revolutionary addition:

• Diamond InfusionL lab grown diamond is infused onto the surface of the moissanite. This innovative patented technology enhances the fire and brilliance of the Ethica Diamond®, bringing it even closer to the sparkle of a diamond.
• Increased Durability: The diamond infusion elevates the surface hardness of the Ethica Diamond® matching that of a diamond. This translates to outstanding resistance to scratches and chips, making it perfect for everyday wear in your cherished jewellery.

Ethica Diamond® vs. Standard Moissanite

Here's a breakdown of how the Ethica Diamond® stands out from standard moissanite:

• Hardness: Standard moissanite boasts a Mohs hardness of 9.6, making it a very durable gemstone. However, the Ethica Diamond® takes it a step further with its diamond infusion, achieving a Mohs hardness of 10 on its surface – the same as a diamond. This translates to superior resistance to scratches and chips for your peace of mind.
• Brilliance: Both moissanite and diamonds are known for their brilliance, but the Ethica Diamond® takes it up a notch. The diamond infusion enhances its fire and brilliance, creating a dazzling play of colours that rivals even the most exceptional diamonds.
• Quality: The Ethica Diamond® is crafted from super premium-grade moissanite, ensuring exceptional quality. It consistently falls within the D-E colour range, signifying a near colourless stone, and boasts VVS1 clarity for a flawless appearance. Standard moissanite can vary in quality, with a wider range of colours and clarity grades.
• Certification: Unlike many moissanites that go uncertified, every Ethica Diamond® is independently certified by a leading gemological institute like IGI or GRI. This certification provides independent verification of the stone's quality and characteristics.
• Ethically Sourced: Lab grown moissanite and diamonds eliminate the environmental and ethical concerns associated with mined diamonds. The Ethica Diamond® embodies this commitment to ethical sourcing.
• Unmatched Value: Compared to diamonds, the Ethica Diamond® offers exceptional brilliance and beauty at a significantly lower price point. This allows you to achieve a larger and more dazzling stone without compromising your budget.

Whether you prioritise exceptional sparkle, ethical sourcing, or affordability, the Ethica Diamond® offers a compelling option. It combines the best qualities of moissanite – brilliance, durability, and ethical credentials – with the enhanced fire and brilliance of a diamond infusion. Visit our website to explore the Ethica Diamond® collection and discover the perfect stone for your next piece of jewellery.

At Ethica Diamonds, we take pride in the exceptional quality and craftsmanship of our Ethica Diamond® jewellery. To ensure your complete satisfaction, we offer a comprehensive Lifetime Manufacturing Warranty against manufacturing defects. This warranty provides peace of mind, knowing your beautiful Ethica Diamond® piece is protected.

What's Covered:

• Precious Metal Defects: The warranty covers manufacturing faults in the precious metal, such as fracturing due to porosity, inconsistent colour or texture, or chain detachment from a jump ring.
• Loose Stones (with Limitations): Loose gemstones or diamonds, and loose claws on new or resized jewellery (done by Ethica Diamonds) are guaranteed for the first 30 days, provided there's no evidence of accidental damage like knocks, blows, or snagged claws.
• Ethica Gemstones: A lifetime warranty is specifically offered for Ethica Diamonds® and coloured gemstones (our branded stones only) against manufacturing defects. In the event of any loss of optical properties or discolouration, we will replace the stone free of charge (exclusions apply).

What's Not Covered:

• Normal Wear and Tear: The warranty excludes coverage for everyday wear and tear, which is expected over time. This includes scratches, minor abrasions, and gradual loosening of claws due to daily use.
• Gemstone Loss (Larger Stones): Loss of gemstones or diamonds exceeding 0.02 carats is not covered under warranty.
• Product Loss or Theft: The warranty does not cover loss or theft of your Ethica Diamond® jewellery.
• Damage from Improper Care: The warranty excludes damage caused by improper wear, exposure to harsh chemicals like makeup or chlorine, improper cleaning methods, or inadequate storage.
• Repairs by Others: Any repairs or alterations performed by a jeweller other than Ethica Diamonds will void the warranty. (The only exception is resizing done outside the UK by a third-party jeweller.)

Annual Maintenance Package:

While the warranty covers manufacturing defects, Ethica Diamonds recognises the importance of regular jewellery maintenance. We offer an optional Annual Jewellery Maintenance package (£140) that includes cleaning, polishing, and replating of your jewellery, along with a thorough inspection for loose claws or stones. This can help prevent problems before they arise and keep your Ethica Diamonds jewellery sparkling for years to come.

How to Make a Warranty Claim:

If you believe your Ethica Diamonds jewellery has a manufacturing defect, contact us! We will request you to send your piece to our workshop for evaluation. A £50 deposit is required to cover shipping and the initial assessment. This fee is fully refundable if the damage is determined to be a warranty issue. We will then repair the warranted damage or replace the item free of charge. We also cover return shipping for warranty repairs.

Additional Considerations:

• Resizing: Resizing rings can make them slightly more susceptible to loose stones, especially after 30 days. We recommends extra care with resizing multi stone rings, as these can be more delicate.
• Ring Design: Certain ring designs, like tension settings or those with many small stones in the shoulders or halo, may be more prone to loose stones due to their delicate nature. Consider this when choosing your Ethica Diamonds jewellery.

By understanding the terms of Ethica Diamonds' Lifetime Warranty and taking proper care of your jewellery, you can ensure your Ethica Diamonds piece continues to sparkle and bring you joy for a lifetime.

At Ethica Diamonds, ethical practices are at the core of everything we do. That's why we proudly use lab grown diamonds in our stunning Ethica Diamonds jewellery. These beautiful stones offer a conflict-free and environmentally friendly alternative to mined diamonds, allowing you to celebrate your love or make a special statement with a clear conscience.

What are Lab Grown Diamonds?

Lab grown diamonds are not imitations – they are the real deal! Using advanced technology, scientists can replicate the exact conditions of heat and pressure that exist deep within the Earth, where natural diamonds form over millions of years. The resulting lab grown diamonds possess the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as mined diamonds.They are just as brilliant, fiery, and durable, making them a perfect choice for exquisite Ethica Diamonds jewellery.

The Ethical Choice:

Mined diamonds can have a significant negative impact on the environment and local communities. The mining process can lead to deforestation, soil erosion, and water pollution. It can also be associated with human rights abuses, including child labour and unsafe working conditions.

Lab grown diamonds offer a clear ethical advantage. They are created in controlled environments, eliminating the environmental damage and human rights concerns associated with mined diamonds. Ethica Diamonds is committed to responsible sourcing throughout our supply chain, ensuring that every step from creation to your finger is ethical and sustainable.

Benefits of Lab Grown Diamonds:

• Conflict-Free: Lab grown diamonds eliminate the risk of supporting conflict zones or unethical mining practices.
• Environmentally Friendly: The creation of lab grown diamonds uses significantly less energy and water compared to mined diamonds.
• Sustainable: Lab grown diamonds are a renewable resource, unlike mined diamonds which are a finite natural resource.
• Exceptional Quality: Lab grown diamonds offer the same brilliance, fire, and durability as mined diamonds,making them a perfect choice for exquisite jewellery.
• Competitive Prices: Due to the streamlined production process, lab grown diamonds are vastly more affordable than mined diamonds of comparable quality.

Discover the Ethica Diamonds Difference:

By choosing Ethica Diamonds, you're not just getting a beautiful piece of jewellery – you're making a responsible and ethical choice. Visit our website to explore our stunning collection of Ethica Diamonds jewellery, featuring lab grown diamonds that are as dazzling as they are ethical. We invite you to celebrate your love story or special occasion with a piece that reflects your values and shines brightly for years to come.

Ever dreamt of owning a piece of jewellery as unique and captivating as you are? At Ethica Diamonds, we turn that dream into reality with our custom jewellery design service. This isn't just about choosing a setting and a stone – it's about crafting a masterpiece that reflects your individuality and tells your story.

Imagine this:

• A ring that features your birthstone nestled amidst a halo of sparkling lab grown Ethica Diamonds, each stone meticulously chosen to complement the other.
• A pendant that captures a cherished memory, perhaps a delicate silhouette of a butterfly symbolising transformation, or a hand-engraved inscription whispering a secret message close to your heart.
• A pair of earrings that embodies your artistic spirit, a cascade of vibrant gemstones cascading down your earlobes in a mesmerising dance of colour.

The Possibilities are Endless:

The beauty of our custom design service lies in its limitless potential. Our expert designers will collaborate with you every step of the way, translating your vision into a tangible masterpiece. Here's a glimpse into the creative process:

• Consultation: We'll begin by getting to know you, your personal style, and the inspiration behind your desired piece. Do you have a specific stone shape you'd like to incorporate? A specific design element that has captured your heart? Our designers will listen attentively, taking note of your preferences and capturing the essence of your dream jewel.
• Concept Sketches & Inspiration Boards: Our talented team will create a variety of concept sketches, translating your ideas into visual artistry. They'll also curate inspiration boards filled with gemstones, settings, and design elements to spark your creativity and refine your vision.
• Material Selection: From the brilliance of lab grown Ethica Diamonds to the warm glow of rose gold or the timeless elegance of platinum, you'll have a vast array of materials to choose from. Our designers will guide you through the selection process, ensuring each element complements the others and perfectly suits your desired style.
• 3D Rendering & Finalisation: Once you're happy with the design concept and material selection, our team will create a stunning 3D rendering of your bespoke piece. This allows you to visualise the final product in meticulous detail, ensuring it surpasses your expectations. After any final tweaks, your one-of-a-kind creation will be brought to life by our skilled artisans.

A Legacy in the Making:

A custom-designed piece of Ethica Diamonds jewellery is more than just an adornment; it's a testament to your unique spirit and a cherished symbol of a special occasion or a deeply held sentiment. It's a conversation starter, a timeless heirloom to be passed down through generations, and a constant reminder of the story it embodies.

Ready to embark on this exciting design journey? Visit our website or contact Ethica Diamonds today. Let us help you transform your vision into a dazzling reality, a bespoke masterpiece that speaks volumes about your individuality and shines as brightly as your spirit.