Are Memorial Diamonds Real Diamonds?

If you’re considering a memorial diamond to honor a loved one, you might be wondering: Are memorial diamonds real diamonds? The short answer is yes — memorial diamonds are, in fact, real diamonds. They are created using the same scientific process as naturally occurring diamonds, with one key difference: they are made using carbon extracted from cremated remains or hair.

Here’s a closer look at how memorial diamonds are created and why they are considered “real” diamonds.

How Are Memorial Diamonds Created?

Memorial diamonds are made through a process called high-pressure, high-temperature (HPHT) synthesis or chemical vapor deposition (CVD). Both methods mimic the natural process by which diamonds are formed deep inside the Earth, but on a much smaller scale.

Here’s how it works:

1. Carbon Source: The carbon needed to form the diamond comes from the cremated remains or hair of the deceased.

2. Diamond Growth: The carbon is extracted and purified. Then, using the HPHT or CVD process, the carbon atoms are arranged into a diamond crystal structure.

3. Cut and Polish: Once the diamond has grown, it’s carefully cut and polished into the desired shape, just like any other diamond.

Do Memorial Diamonds Have the Same Properties as Natural Diamonds?

Yes, memorial diamonds have the same physical and chemical properties as mined diamonds. This means they:

• Are composed of pure carbon

• Have the same hardness (10 on the Mohs scale)

• Possess the same brilliance and sparkle

Since memorial diamonds are lab-created, they are technically classified as synthetic diamonds, but they are chemically identical to natural diamonds. They are evaluated using the same grading standards, including the 4 Cs: carat, cut, color, and clarity.

Why Are Memorial Diamonds Considered “Real” Diamonds?

While there are some distinctions between natural diamonds and lab-created diamonds, memorial diamonds are still considered “real” because they meet the same criteria as naturally occurring diamonds. The key difference is the origin of the carbon — natural diamonds are formed over millions of years under extreme heat and pressure, while memorial diamonds are made through a more controlled process using a carbon source from cremated remains or hair.

The industry standard for what constitutes a “real” diamond does not differentiate between natural and lab-grown diamonds based on how they were sourced. The essential element is that they share the same structure and qualities, making them real diamonds.

Are Memorial Diamonds More Affordable Than Natural Diamonds?

Yes, generally speaking, memorial diamonds can be more affordable than naturally mined diamonds. Because the process of creating memorial diamonds is controlled in a lab, it often costs less than mining natural diamonds. However, the price can still vary depending on the size, color, and customization options.

Can I Trust That My Memorial Diamond Is Real?

When you purchase a memorial diamond from a reputable provider, you can be confident that it is a real diamond. Many companies offer certification, which includes information about the diamond’s creation, the specific carbon source (cremated remains or hair), and the characteristics of the diamond. This certification ensures that the diamond is a genuine, lab-grown diamond.

Final Thoughts

Memorial diamonds are real diamonds that carry the same characteristics and value as naturally occurring diamonds. Created from the carbon in your loved one’s ashes or hair, they offer a unique and lasting way to honor their memory. Whether set in jewelry or kept as a keepsake, memorial diamonds are a tangible way to carry your loved one’s legacy forward, with all the brilliance and significance of a true diamond.