For decades, mined diamonds were considered the sole option for lasting brilliance. Today, technological innovation has made it possible to create authentic diamonds above ground with zero compromise on optical beauty or physical durability. Whether you are drawn to the deep geological heritage of a natural gemstone or the incredible value and modern craftsmanship of a lab-grown diamond, understanding how they compare is the first step toward finding your perfect match. Let’s start with the most essential question every buyer asks.
Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Real Diamonds?
According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), a diamond is defined by its pure carbon crystalline structure—regardless of whether it grew deep within the Earth’s mantle or in a technological laboratory. Unlike diamond simulants like moissanite or cubic zirconia, lab-grown diamonds share the exact chemical composition, optical properties, and physical hardness (10 on the Mohs scale) as mined diamonds. To the naked eye, even an experienced gemologist using a standard jeweler’s loupe cannot tell them apart.
How Are Lab Diamonds Grown?
While natural diamonds reached Earth's surface through ancient volcanic eruptions billions of years ago, lab-created diamonds are grown using two state-of-the-art technological methods that replicate nature’s extreme conditions: HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature): Recreates the intense geological heat (over 2,000°C) and pressure (1.5 million psi) of the Earth's mantle to melt pure carbon around a diamond seed.CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition): Uses microwave plasma in a vacuum chamber to break down carbon-rich gas (like methane), depositing a pure carbon layer-by-layer onto a diamond seed wafer.
Which Diamond Should You Choose?
Choose a Lab-Grown Diamond if you value: Uncompromised Quality: You want a flawless visual appearance and maximum carat size for your budget. Design Flexibility: You prefer directing your budget toward custom setting designs and precious metal craftsmanship.Modern Value: You admire technological innovation and modern luxury.
Choose a Natural Diamond if you value: Geological Rarity: You love the idea of wearing a gemstone that is billions of years old. Tradition & Heritage: You prioritize classic romance and rare natural treasures.
Certificate Policy & Quality Assurance
We hold every lab diamond in our collection to strict aesthetic and structural criteria. To ensure complete peace of mind, 1.0 Carat & Above (Solid Gold Orders): Every main center stone of 1.0 carat or larger ordered in Karat Gold comes automatically with a physical IGI (International Gemological Institute) Certificate.
Select 925 Silver designs include an IGI grading report. Please contact our support team before placing your order, and we will check it for you.
Under 1.0 Carat Diamonds: While smaller accent stones and sub-1ct diamonds do not typically include individual paper certificates to keep pricing accessible, every stone undergoes rigorous quality inspection for brilliant cut, color consistency, and clarity.
Find Your Diamond Shape
Whether you prefer timeless classic round or modern elongated fancy cuts, discover the silhouette that matches your unique style.
Lab-Grown vs. Natural Diamonds FAQ
Will a lab-grown diamond turn cloudy or change color over time?
No, never. Because lab-grown diamonds are 100% pure carbon, they have the same chemical and physical composition as natural diamonds. They will never cloud, fade, or lose their brilliance over a lifetime.
Can a traditional jeweler tell if my diamond is lab-grown?
No. Standard jeweler tools like thermal diamond testers, microscopes, or loupes cannot distinguish between natural and lab-grown diamonds. Only accredited gemological laboratories using specialized spectroscopic equipment can detect the difference.
How do I verify my diamond’s IGI certificate?
For diamonds 1.0ct+ (or certified silver items), your order includes an official IGI grading report. You can verify your stone by typing the unique number laser-engraved on the diamond’s girdle directly into the official IGI online lookup portal. Learn more in the IGI Certification.
Are lab-grown diamonds identical to Moissanite or Cubic Zirconia?
No. Moissanite is silicon carbide—a completely different gemstone with higher birefringence (rainbow sparkle) and lower hardness (9.25). Lab-grown diamonds are authentic diamonds made of carbon with a Mohs hardness of 10.
Do lab-grown diamonds have inclusions?
Yes. Just like natural diamonds, lab diamonds develop tiny natural characteristics (inclusions) during their growth process. They are graded on the standard GIA/IGI clarity scale from Flawless (FL) to Included (I). Learn more in the Lab Diamonds 4 C's Guide.
How should I clean and care for my lab-grown diamond jewelry?
Since lab-grown diamonds share the maximum hardness (Mohs 10) of natural diamonds, they can be cleaned using standard diamond maintenance methods: warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft-bristled toothbrush. Ultrasonic cleaners are also safe for solid gold settings. Or check our jewelry care guide.
Can lab-grown diamond rings be resized or repaired?
Absolutely. Because lab diamonds withstand high temperatures and pressure just like natural diamonds, any skilled jeweler can resize, repair, or re-prong your ring without risking damage to the center stone. But we suggest contacting us if your jewelry has been damaged before it is repaired or resized.