When purchasing a man-made diamond (cultivated diamond), a major concern for many consumers is: how long will it last? Will it fade or be damaged? This article will analyze in depth the durability of man-made diamonds, the factors that affect them and how to take care of them to help you make an informed buying decision.
I. The life of man-made diamonds: permanent analysis
1. Physical properties determine the “eternal” lifespan
The chemical composition and crystal structure of man-made diamonds (laboratory-grown diamonds) are exactly the same as natural diamonds (all pure carbon), so they have the same physical properties:
- Mohs hardness 10: one of the hardest substances on earth, highly resistant to scratches.
- High stability: resistant to high temperatures (can withstand more than 1200°C), acids and alkalis, daily environment will not lead to deterioration.
Conclusion: Under normal wearing and maintenance conditions, man-made diamonds have a permanent lifespan and will not be damaged or degraded over time.
II. 3 factors that may affect longevity
Although man-made diamonds themselves are extremely stable, the following may indirectly affect their appearance or setting durability:
1. Wear and tear of the setting metal
- Problem: Although diamonds are strong, the metal (e.g. 18K gold, platinum) of the ring/earring may wear out or become deformed with prolonged wear.
- Solution: Check the solidity of the setting claws every 1-2 years to avoid the diamonds from loosening and falling off.
2. Surface oil or dust accumulation
- Problem: Grease and cosmetics will adhere to the surface of the diamond, reducing the gloss.
- Solution: Clean it regularly (see below for method).
3. Extreme external impact
- Problem: Although diamonds are hard, violent impacts may cause shattering (rare).
- Solution: Take off your jewelry when exercising or doing housework.
III. Life expectancy of man-made diamonds vs. other gemstones
Gemstone Type |
Mohs Hardness |
Acid and Alkali Resistance |
Daily Wear Life |
Man-made diamonds |
10 |
Very high |
Permanent |
Moissanite |
9.25 |
High |
50+ Years |
Zircon |
8.5 |
Medium |
5-10 years (easily atomized) |
Sapphire |
9 |
High |
Permanent |
Note: The durability of man-made diamonds far exceeds that of moissanite and zircon and is identical to that of natural diamonds.
IV. How to take care of man-made diamond jewelry?
1. Cleaning methods
- Household cleaning: warm water + a small amount of neutral detergent, soft-bristled toothbrush lightly brush, rinse and dry with a flannel.
- Ultrasonic cleaning: only applicable to diamonds without fissures, avoid using for loose setting or group setting models.
2. Wearing precautions
- Avoid chemicals: perfume, shampoo, bleach may corrode the metal prongs.
- Store separately: to prevent friction with other jewelry, compartmentalized jewelry box is recommended.
3. Regular Inspection
- Visit your jeweler once a year to check the condition of the claws and the metal tray.
V. Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Do man-made diamonds fade or turn yellow?
→ No. It will not. High quality HPHT/CVD cultivated diamonds are colorless (D-F color), chemically stable and will never fade.
Q2: Who has a longer life span between man-made diamonds and natural diamonds?
→ Exactly the same. Both have the same composition and both last forever.
Q3: Why do some people say “man-made diamonds are not durable”?
→ It may be confused with moissanite or zircon (not diamond), but there is no difference between a real man-made diamond and a natural diamond.
VI. Summarize: man-made diamonds are the choice of eternal wisdom
- Lifespan: as permanent as natural diamonds, normal wear can be passed down from generation to generation.
- Maintenance key: protect the metal support, regular cleaning, avoid impact.
- Cost-effective: spend less money, get the same physical characteristics as natural diamonds.
Purchasing advice: choose the cultivated diamond brands that provide IGI/GIA certificates to ensure worry-free quality.