Page 30 - Tropic Magazine Issue 33

TROPIC • COVER STORY

What’s the story on

synthetic diamonds?
Though they’ve been around for decades, synthetic diamonds
– also known as lab-grown diamonds – have really entered
the market in recent years. They are chemically, physically and
optically identical to a mined diamond, and often, priced at
about one-fifth of its counterpart. Many are drawn to them
for their environmental and humanitarian credentials, but
like many rapidly growing industries, the level of regulation
and transparency is lacking. Synthetic diamonds are made in
chambers from a ‘seed’ (a flat slither of another diamond), which
is exposed to extreme pressure, heat and carbon-rich gas.
The research on their carbon footprint is in its infancy, and some
companies have been accused of greenwashing consumers.
Christina said while lab-grown diamonds tick all the boxes for
some, she will always choose the real thing. “Some jewellery
retailers are doubling both in the real and synthetic space which
doesn’t sit well with me,” she said. “I think it’s confusing for the
consumer, and retailers play to this. I am a staunch believer that
when it comes to appreciating fine jewellery and creating pieces
to last possibly multiple lifetimes, authentic always wins.”

STONE CUTS

Princess Marquise Asher Emerald Radiant

The Kimberley Process
In 2002, a coalition of governments, non-
governmental organisations and key players in
the diamond industry established the Kimberley
Process in an effort to eliminate the ‘conflict
diamond’ trade, or rough diamonds sold by
rebel groups to fund conflict against legitimate
governments. According to the GIA, 99 per cent
of diamonds in today’s market are conflict-free.

30 • Tropic • Issue 33