Mining Diamonds hasn’t always had the best reputation –  both with the environment & working conditions. Personally, it wasn’t something I thought about when it came to jewelry. Luckily, flawless diamonds can also be created in a lab, without mining.

I’ve recently partnered with an ethical jewelry brand, Smiling Rocks, Through this experience, I’ve learned a wealth of knowledge about lab-grown diamonds. Being more conscious of an issue and its solution has ultimately changed my outlook on the industry.

I’ve shared a Q&A to educate you on things you should know about lab grown diamonds. In addition, if you shop with Smiling Rocks you can use my Code: Shesgoing_ for $50 + Free shipping.

1. What are differences between lab-grown diamonds vs mined diamonds?

Lab-grown diamonds are identical to mined diamonds in each and every way. Lab-grown diamonds are diamonds with the same crystal structure, chemical composition, and physical properties as mined rocks: carbon atoms arranged in a cubic crystal structure. They are grown in labs, with advanced technological processes that stimulate the same conditions under which mined diamonds develop when they form in the mantle, beneath the Earth’s crust.

2. What makes them sustainable?

Our jewelry and diamonds are sustainable in the way by which we conduct our business.  Smiling Rocks offers only laboratory-grown, socially and environmentally conscious diamonds in fine jewelry. We donate 10% of each purchase to our charity partners and our consumers get to choose from a list of respected NGOs who seek to support educational, environmental, medical and animal welfare causes. We aim to co-create a caring community with our customers, and contribute to a better, sustainable world  by offering jewelry with a purpose.

3. How long does it take to grow the diamonds?

Usually, 4 – 8 weeks on average to grow a diamond, depending on its size and required quality.

4. What are important certificates that buyers should be aware of when purchasing diamonds

Diamond purchases should be done very consciously. Consumers still have to pay attention to the main Cs of the stones: Carat, Cut, Clarity and the Color. These features have the biggest influence on the diamond’s quality and sparkle. Also, consumers should consider the importance of certification when buying. Our diamonds are graded using the standard 4Cs method of assessing diamond quality. For larger diamonds, we provide certification by the International Gemological Institute (IGI) certification.

5. What is the value of having ‘Laser-Inscribed Diamonds’?

Identification is important to us and is a representation of our quality mark. We add a laser-inscribed Smiling Rocks logo that is only visible under a microscope as our assurance of quality.