… If it’s hard to tell, that means Talitha Cummins is doing her job very well! Because, although she was recognised for her previous roles on Weekend Sunrise. Or, as a roving reporter for Seven News, away from the spotlight of the small screen, the former TV journalist has more recently moved into a career with just as much shine. Launching her custom jewellery brand, The Cut.

With diamond expertise often running deep within families, Talitha’s legacy is no exception. In fact, her connection to the precious gems predates even her own existence – with an uncle, Craig Blizzard, who boasts over five decades of industry expertise.

Though Talitha’s path initially diverged into a successful career in television journalism, her roots in the diamond trade remained steadfast. And, a journey to the UK several years ago proved to be a pivotal moment, introducing her to the intriguing world of lab grown diamonds. Despite their longstanding presence, the nuanced understanding of lab grown diamonds vs natural diamonds still eludes many. Talitha, however, found herself captivated by their story – genetically and chemically identical to their mined counterparts but born of innovation rather than earth extraction.

As she delved deeper into this emerging field, Talitha recognised the importance of informed consumer decision-making, regardless of diamond origin. Drawing from her extensive experience, she shares three crucial questions to consider when debating lab grown vs natural diamonds, and navigating the purchase of a gem stone in this ever evolving industry.

Are lab grown diamonds real diamonds?

Lab-grown diamonds are the same as mined diamonds. They are identical in every way from their
chemical make-up to their optical and physical properties and they are just as strong. The only
difference is that they are grown in a lab. They are also 60%- 80% cheaper than a mined diamond, which means you can have a bigger diamond at a lower price point.

Lab-grown diamonds are graded by independent grading houses like the GIA and IGI, which are the
same institutes that grade mined diamonds and this allows proof of value. All of the diamonds we
sell through my brand The Cut Jewellery will come with certification.

Are the 4 C’s still relevant when determining the quality of a lab grown diamond?

The Four C’s stand for colour, clarity, cut and carat weight and this is as relevant in lab diamonds as
it is in mined diamonds. As everyone has different budgets and different preferences, there will
always be variety in the diamond industry to suit all needs. This is where the GIA and IGI come in as
they are the organisation that grades diamonds.

How do lab grown diamonds hold their resale value over time?

Diamonds, whether they come from a lab or a mine, don’t retain or gain value unless they’re a rare
gem. There’s typically no secondary market for engagement ring white diamonds, the best you can
hope for is to sell it to an estate jeweller or pawn broker and receive a fraction of the price you paid.
We tell all of our clients, the return on a diamond is beauty. It’s a sentimental investment. They signify a bond between two people. Just like cars, when you buy a diamond you understand this is
the case.

As to the elusive answer to the original questions, all the diamonds feature in the image at the top of this page are indeed lab grown. And available for purchase from www.thecutjewellery.com.au