• A lab grown diamond is a real diamond, like one extracted from the earth, but created in a lab over weeks using one of two sophisticated growth methods. Lab-grown diamonds are chemically, physically, and optically identical to mined diamonds.
• The first method, High-Pressure High-Temperature (HPHT) replicates the extreme conditions deep within the earth during the supercontinent cycle, billions of years ago, which caused natural diamonds to slowly form. 
• The other method, Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD), heats hydrocarbon gas into plasma, separating the carbon atoms and using them to create a lab grown diamond crystal, layer by layer.

Reference: https://www.igi.org/lab-grown-diamonds/

• Yes. Lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds. They are not simulants or imitations like cubic zirconia (CZ) or moissanite. Lab-grown diamonds are not "fakes."
• They are chemically identical to mined diamonds, with only subtle carbon distinctions. The main difference is their age and origin:
• Mined diamonds: Formed naturally in the earth over billions of years
• Lab-grown diamonds: Created in factories using sophisticated chemical synthesis over 1-4 weeks
• Once grown, lab diamonds are cut and polished using the same tools and techniques as mined diamonds.

In 2018, The Federal Trade Commission's ruling on diamond marketing allows lab-grown diamonds to be classified and marketed as real diamonds, benefiting consumers with more clarity and potentially lower prices while challenging the traditional mined-diamond industry.

References: https://www.forbes.com/sites/pamdanziger/2018/08/02/what-the-ftc-diamond-ruling-means-for-consumers-and-diamond-marketers/

• Lower production costs: The process of creating lab-grown diamonds is more efficient and less labor-intensive than mining operations.

• Shorter supply chain: Lab-grown diamonds don't require the extensive network of miners, distributors, and middlemen that mined diamonds do.

• Controlled production: Labs can produce diamonds on demand, reducing scarcity-driven price inflation.

• Lab-grown diamonds typically have a smaller carbon footprint than mined diamonds.
• They don't require extensive mining operations, which can disrupt ecosystems.

For an additional cost, Equi can include IGI certification with your jewelry purchase.

• IGI is the largest independent gemstone certification organization which provides accurate assessments of lab-grown diamonds' 4Cs (cut, color, clarity, carat) using international standards.
• Products with an IGI report add-on means the diamond's quality has been assessed by IGI, and will come with a unique official report.
• Jewelry without IGI reports are still genuine lab-grown diamonds, just not third-party verified. They come from the same sources but cost less without certification fees.
• For more information: https://www.igi.org/reports/lab-grown-diamond-report/

• Our items are Made to Order, which allows us to offer high-quality, customized products at affordable prices.
• This process typically takes 2-3 weeks from payment to shipment. We appreciate your patience as we carefully craft your unique piece.