Man-made Diamonds

Though most manufacturers typically reserve synthetic diamonds for the industrial marketplace, man-made counterparts have recently found their way into the jewelry trade. The term “man-made” can refer to any synthetic or treated diamond.

Experts produce synthetic stones using materials that exhibit similar gemological characteristics to the diamond. Cubic Zirconia, or CZ, is the most well-know diamond substitute, though moissanite has also become extremely popular in the last few years.

A treated diamond is any stone that has undergone special procedures to modify its physical properties – laser drilling, fills, or color enhancements.

Man-made diamonds are an inexpensive alternative to natural diamond gemstones, providing an ideal solution to those on a tight budget.

If you are in the market for a natural diamond and are concerned that you might be sold a synthetic, make sure to ask for proper certification with the jewelry you purchase. Any qualified jeweler or appraiser should be able to distinguish between a natural stone and its treated or man-made counterpart. If you are still wary, insist that the diamonds you purchase come with a complete lab report.