Why Not All Lab-Grown Is Sustainable, and This Week’s Other News

“Retailers and manufacturers of lab-grown diamonds bill them as more affordable, ethical and sustainable than natural ones, but how many companies can really back up the claims on their websites? I thought this story was important because it explains how only a small proportion of firms use renewable energy or offset their carbon emissions. Most synthetics are made in India and China, which mainly burn coal for electricity, explains this Associated Press article.”

“Wouldn’t it be great if mining diamonds weren’t so complicated? A new study financed by De Beers has found a strong connection between olivine and kimberlite. Basically, if you find olivine that’s high in magnesium, you may well have landed in diamond country. The method used in this study could potentially make the discovery of diamonds easier in the future.”
 

“This story takes us back to the Spanish colonies in South America and ends in the recent past, when a collection of Muzo emerald jewelry went on display at New York’s Winter Show. Some of the stones lay undiscovered at the bottom of the sea for 363 years, so it’s fantastic proof of our long-lasting relationship with gems and jewelry.”

“This post shows a unique, intriguing and fun find in celebration of February’s birthstone, amethyst, and with love in the air this Valentine’s Day.”