In an episode of "Rock & Roast," Li Xueqin humorously talked about her mother telling her that the universe has an end, just like life’s starting point is its ending point. Her mother used this to suggest that if things don't work out in Beijing, she should return to her hometown of Tieling, symbolizing both the start and the end. This idea, that Tieling is the end of the universe, has brought smiles to many people dealing with their own frustrations.
So, where does the future of lab-grown diamonds lie? Let's consider some possibilities, both humorous and serious:
- Dominating the Market:
- Scenario: Lab-grown diamonds capture over 60% of the market share, effectively overshadowing natural diamonds.
- Implication: This dream scenario for many in the industry would mean lab-grown diamonds have become the primary choice for consumers, potentially leading to a major shift in the diamond industry.
- Industry Collapse:
- Scenario: Intense competition and internal strife lead to the collapse of the lab-grown diamond industry, causing a breakdown in the supply chain and withdrawal of capital.
- Implication: This would be a disastrous outcome where the entire industry suffers, akin to "killing 1,000 enemies at the cost of 800 of our own."
- Coexistence with Natural Diamonds:
- Scenario: Lab-grown and natural diamonds share the market equally, coexisting peacefully.
- Implication: This balanced scenario might seem ideal, but market dynamics often involve intense competition, making such harmony challenging to maintain.
- Shift to Industrial Applications:
- Scenario: Following the strategy of companies like De Beers, the focus shifts to industrial uses of lab-grown diamonds.
- Implication: This would require significant technological advancements, an area where there might be current limitations. Depending heavily on industrial applications could leave the industry vulnerable to competitive pressures.
- Expanding into New Markets:
- Scenario: Embracing a long-term strategy of surrounding and eventually dominating the global market, akin to the "Long March."
- Implication: Avoiding direct competition with natural diamonds by focusing on new markets and applications could be a strategic masterstroke, leading to steady and sustainable growth.
Ultimately, the future of lab-grown diamonds is not confined to a single path. The development of jewelry and technology is a continuous and iterative process. The emergence of a new material like lab-grown diamonds naturally comes with a long lifecycle. Therefore, adopting a long-term perspective is crucial. Short-term anxieties and the pursuit of quick profits can be detrimental. As one netizen aptly put it, if we just aim for quick gains, it could become overwhelming and unsustainable.
In Conclusion:Lab-grown diamonds' future is filled with potential but requires careful navigation. Whether through market dominance, peaceful coexistence, industrial application, or expanding new markets, the industry must be prepared for a long-term commitment. Embracing this mindset will ensure that the journey of lab-grown diamonds continues, adapting and evolving with the times.