SUSTAINABLE SPARKLE? THE REAL STORY BEHIND LAB-GROWN DIAMONDS

A deep dive into the energy consumption, carbon footprint, and greenwashing of lab-grown diamonds'

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India’s love affair with diamonds is legendary. From ancient royal treasures to modern-day bridal trousseaus, natural diamonds hold a cultural and emotional significance that transcends generations. Today, India is not just a consumer but also a major player in diamond production, with a significant share of the global lab-grown diamond (LGD) market. Marketed as an ethical and eco-friendly alternative to natural diamonds, LGDs have gained popularity as a conscious luxury choice. But does that polished narrative hold up under scrutiny? The reality, as always, is far more nuanced. While LGDs sidestep traditional mining, their production process is anything but carbon-neutral, raising important questions about sustainability claims and greenwashing in the industry.

THE HIDDEN FOOTPRINT OF LGD PRODUCTION

At first glance, the idea of creating diamonds in a controlled environment seems like the ultimate sustainable solution. No mines, no heavy machinery, no disruption to the earth—just pure sparkle conjured in a lab. But here's the catch: growing diamonds is an energy-guzzling process. The reactors that produce these stones operate at temperatures equivalent to 20% of the Sun's surface and under immense pressure, requiring an intense amount of electricity.