Are Lab Diamonds Real Diamonds? Here’s What You Need to Know

If you’re shopping for a diamond, you’ve probably come across the term lab-grown diamonds. But you might be wondering: Are lab diamonds real diamonds? The answer is yes! Let’s break it down simply.

What Exactly Are Lab-Grown Diamonds?

Imagine a diamond forming deep within the Earth over millions of years. Now, imagine that same process happening in a lab, but in a fraction of the time. That’s what lab-grown diamonds are—real diamonds, created using advanced technology to replicate the natural process that forms them deep within the Earth.

Two main methods are used to create them:

• HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature) mimics the conditions deep beneath the Earth’s surface.
• CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition) uses a carbon-rich gas to create the diamond layer by layer.

Both methods result in a genuine diamond—chemically identical to mined diamonds and visually stunning.

Diamond Rough

Are Lab Diamonds Real?

Yes, lab-grown diamonds are 100% real diamonds. Here’s why:

• They have the same chemical structure, meaning they’re made of pure carbon atoms arranged in the same way as natural diamonds.
• They share the same physical properties—same sparkle, same durability, same brilliance.
• So when you hear “lab-grown,” don’t think fake. These diamonds are the real deal!

IGI – Lab Grown Diamond Certificate

How Are Lab Diamonds Different from Natural Diamonds?

• Price: Lab diamonds cost 20-40% less than natural diamonds of the same size and quality.
• Rarity: Natural diamonds take millions of years to form, making them rarer (and more expensive).
• Environmental Impact: Lab diamonds are more eco-friendly because they don’t require mining, which can have a negative impact on the environment.

Why Are Lab Diamonds Gaining Popularity?

It’s not just about the price tag—though that’s certainly a factor. Lab-grown diamonds have become a game-changer for several reasons:

1. Price:

Lab diamonds are up to 40% cheaper than mined diamonds of the same size and quality. Why? Because no digging into the Earth means no expensive mining costs. You get a bigger, better diamond for less money—who wouldn’t want that?

2. Eco-Friendly:

Let’s face it: diamond mining has a pretty big environmental footprint. It can result in habitat destruction, water pollution, and carbon emissions. Lab-grown diamonds, on the other hand, are made with zero mining, making them a much more sustainable and environmentally friendly option.

3. Ethical Considerations:

We’ve all heard the horror stories about conflict diamonds or the issues surrounding mining labor practices. Lab diamonds completely avoid these ethical concerns. They’re created in a controlled environment, meaning there’s no exploitation of workers or communities involved.

4. Instant Availability:

While natural diamonds take millions of years to form, lab diamonds can be created in a matter of weeks or months. This means that lab diamonds are more readily available and can often be customized to your exact specifications.

Are Lab Diamonds Lower Quality?

Not at all! In fact, lab-grown diamonds can sometimes be higher quality than mined diamonds. Since lab-grown diamonds are created in a controlled environment, they tend to have fewer imperfections. And just like mined diamonds, they come in various grades—so you can choose the clarity, cut, color, and carat weight that suits you.

How Can You Tell the Difference?

In most cases, you can’t tell the difference between a lab-grown and a natural diamond with the naked eye. Lab diamonds look exactly the same as mined diamonds, with the same brilliance and sparkle. The only real difference is the origin, and lab diamonds may have small laser engravings to mark them as lab-made.

Lab Diamond Viewed Through A Loupe ( 10 x magnification)

The Best Part? Lab Diamonds Are More Affordable!

Let’s talk about money. Lab diamonds cost less, plain and simple. And since they are identical in quality and appearance to mined diamonds, you can get a bigger diamond or a higher-quality stone for the same budget. It’s like getting a luxury diamond without the luxury price tag.

Large Emerald Cut Diamond

Final Thought

So, are lab diamonds real diamonds? Absolutely! They have the same beauty, strength, and sparkle as natural diamonds, but with the added benefits of being more affordable, sustainable, and ethical. Whether you choose a lab-grown or mined diamond, you’re getting a real diamond, and a piece of jewelry that will last a lifetime. If you have more questions, talk to your master designer