When it comes to diamonds, both natural and lab-grown, one of the most important factors that affect their quality and value is their clarity. Clarity refers to the presence of inclusions in lab grown diamonds and blemishes (external imperfections). These imperfections can affect a diamond’s overall appearance, brilliance, and price. While mined diamonds and lab-grown diamonds are chemically and physically identical, inclusions in lab-grown diamonds are often a point of interest for consumers who are considering these stones for engagement rings or other fine jewelry. Understanding the nature of these inclusions, how they form, and how they impact the quality of lab-grown diamonds is key for making an informed purchasing decision.

In this article, we will explore what inclusions are, the different types of inclusions found in lab-grown diamonds, how they differ from natural diamond inclusions, and how they affect a diamond’s value.

1. What Are Inclusions in Lab-Grown Diamonds?

Inclusions in diamonds are small internal features or imperfections that form during the diamond’s creation. These can be caused by various factors such as gases, minerals, or other trace elements that become trapped inside the diamond as it forms. Inclusions are typically microscopic, but they can be visible to the naked eye depending on their size, location, and type.

In lab-grown diamonds, inclusions form in a similar way as in natural diamonds. The difference lies in the environment in which the diamonds are created. Lab-grown diamonds are made in controlled laboratory conditions, using two main methods: Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) and High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT). These methods replicate the natural processes that occur deep within the Earth’s mantle, but they do so much faster (usually in a few weeks) and under controlled circumstances.

Despite the controlled environment, inclusions can still appear in lab-grown diamonds due to various factors in the growth process, such as pressure fluctuations, trace elements in the carbon source, or slight imperfections in the equipment used.

2. Types of Inclusions in Lab-Grown Diamonds

Like natural diamonds, lab-grown diamonds can have various types of inclusions. These inclusions can be classified into different categories, based on their appearance and origin:

1. Pinpoints

These are tiny, often microscopic inclusions that appear as small dots or specks within the diamond. Pinpoints are the most common type of inclusion found in both natural and lab-grown diamonds. They usually have little to no impact on the diamond’s overall appearance and are typically difficult to see with the naked eye.

2. Clouds

Cloud inclusions are a collection of very fine pinpoints or microscopic inclusions grouped together. While clouds are also usually too small to see with the naked eye, they can sometimes give the diamond a hazy or cloudy appearance when viewed under magnification.

3. Needle-like Inclusions

These inclusions are long, thin, and usually appear like tiny threads or needles inside the diamond. They can be visible under magnification, and while they are not often visible to the naked eye, they can affect a diamond’s clarity.

4. Feathers

Feathers are small, thin, and transparent inclusions that can resemble cracks or fractures inside the diamond. These inclusions are often caused by stress during the growth process. While they can appear in both natural and lab-grown diamonds, their impact on a diamond’s durability depends on their location and size. Feathers that extend to the surface of the diamond can make it more prone to breaking.

5. Metal Inclusions

In lab grown diamonds, metal inclusions are not uncommon, especially in those created using the HPHT method. These inclusions occur when tiny metal particles from the growth equipment become embedded in the diamond as it forms. These inclusions can give the diamond a unique appearance, but they are typically microscopic and do not affect its overall durability or brilliance.

6. Crystals

Crystals are small mineral inclusions that are trapped inside the diamond during its formation. These can range from white or transparent crystals to colored inclusions, and while some people find them appealing, they can reduce the clarity grade of the diamond depending on their size, number, and visibility.

7. Growth Lines

These inclusions are formed during the crystal growth process and can look like faint lines or striations inside the diamond. These growth lines are usually not visible to the naked eye but can be detected under magnification. They are often seen in diamonds created with the CVD method.

3. Are Inclusions in Lab-Grown Diamonds Different from Those in Natural Diamonds?

Inclusions in lab-grown diamonds are fundamentally the same as those found in natural diamonds because both types of diamonds are composed of pure carbon atoms arranged in a crystal lattice structure. The only difference is the environment in which the diamonds are formed.

While natural diamonds take millions of years to form under extreme pressure and temperature deep within the Earth, lab-grown diamonds are created much faster in a laboratory. The speed and controlled conditions of lab-grown diamond creation often lead to fewer or less pronounced inclusions than natural diamonds.

In fact, lab-grown diamonds can be grown with fewer inclusions, especially when they are created with advanced technologies like CVD. CVD diamonds tend to have fewer internal imperfections because the process allows for more precise control over the conditions during growth.

4. How Do Inclusions Affect the Value of Lab-Grown Diamonds?

Inclusions play a significant role in determining the clarity grade and value of a diamond. The clarity grade is one of the 4Cs (along with cut, color, and carat weight) that determine a diamond’s overall value.

Diamonds with fewer or smaller inclusions tend to have higher clarity grades and, therefore, higher prices. Lab-grown diamonds with fewer inclusions are typically priced higher, though they will still be more affordable than natural diamonds with similar quality.

Here’s a general breakdown of how inclusions can affect the clarity grade:

• Flawless (FL): No inclusions or blemishes visible under 10x magnification.
• Internally Flawless (IF): No internal inclusions visible under 10x magnification, but may have minor surface blemishes.
• Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS1 and VVS2): Inclusions are extremely difficult to detect under 10x magnification.
• Very Slightly Included (VS1 and VS2): Inclusions are minor and can only be seen with 10x magnification.
• Slightly Included (SI1 and SI2): Inclusions are noticeable under 10x magnification.
• Included (I1, I2, and I3): Inclusions are visible to the naked eye and may affect the diamond’s brilliance.

The fewer the inclusions, the higher the clarity grade, and the more valuable the diamond. However, many lab-grown diamonds with minor inclusions offer excellent value because the imperfections are not always visible to the naked eye.

5. How Can You Minimize the Impact of Inclusions?

If you’re concerned about inclusions in lab-grown diamonds, here are some tips to help you select the best diamond for your needs:

• Choose a Diamond with Higher Clarity: Opt for diamonds with higher clarity grades like VVS or VS if you want to minimize the appearance of inclusions. These diamonds are likely to have fewer and less visible inclusions.
• Inspect Under Magnification: Always ask to see a diamond under 10x magnification. This will allow you to examine the inclusions and determine whether they affect the diamond’s appearance.
• Consider the Location of Inclusions: Inclusions located near the center of the diamond or along its edges may be more noticeable. Choosing a diamond with inclusions closer to the center or hidden within the facets can reduce their visibility.
• Prioritize Cut Quality: A well-cut diamond can mask inclusions by reflecting light in a way that minimizes their appearance. Focus on getting a high-quality cut to enhance the diamond’s overall brilliance and hide any imperfections.

Conclusion: Inclusions in Lab-Grown Diamonds – Part of Their Natural Beauty

Inclusions are a natural part of any diamond, whether it’s lab-grown or mined, and they can provide unique character and beauty to each stone. While inclusions can affect a diamond’s clarity and value, they don’t detract from the stunning brilliance and timeless elegance of the diamond itself. Lab-grown diamonds are no exception, offering high-quality, beautiful stones with minor inclusions that can be nearly invisible to the naked eye.

Ultimately, choosing a lab-grown diamond with inclusions that fit your preferences and budget is a personal decision, and understanding what types of inclusions are present in your diamond will help you make the best choice. With their ethical sourcing, environmental benefits, and affordability, lab-grown diamonds are an increasingly popular choice for consumers who want a diamond that’s both beautiful and responsible.