Collection: Lab Diamond

Lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds created in a lab/factory using technology that replicates the natural diamond-growing process. They have the same chemical, physical, and optical properties as mined diamonds.

Yes, lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds. They are made of pure carbon arranged in the same crystal structure as natural diamonds. 

Gemology labs have testing equipment to detect growth patterns and trace elements that distinguish lab diamonds from natural ones. However, without this technology even for a trained expert it is difficult to differentiate between them with a microscope.

The primary difference between natural diamonds and lab diamonds lies in their origin and value. Lab-grown diamonds are created in controlled laboratory environments over a few weeks, while natural diamonds are formed deep within the Earth over billions of years. Natural diamonds are more valuable due to their rarity as a finite natural resource. Whereas lab diamonds, which can be produced on demand, do not share that rarity.

There are many reasons why people choose a lab diamond. Like natural diamonds, they are ethically sourced. They have a smaller carbon footprint than mined diamonds, but the most popular reasons are because they are a much more affordable price. This means that having a larger diamond is now within reach to the majority of people.

Most jewellers cannot tell the difference between lab created and natural diamonds without specialised tools. Gemologists use advanced equipment, like UV light and high-magnification microscopes, to detect growth characteristics unique to lab diamonds.

Most lab diamonds are certified by the IGI (International Gemological Institute) as they will grade lab diamonds with the usual 4 C’s in the same way that natural diamonds are certified. However other grading laboratories such as the most reputable and well known, the GIA will not grade lab diamonds with the 4 C’s, but rather give them a “standard” or “premium” categorisation instead. 

A customer who chooses a natural diamond over a lab-grown one is often someone who values the sentimental and symbolic significance of a gem formed over billions of years. To them, a natural diamond represents a rare and timeless treasure of the Earth. Considering that an engagement ring represents a forever commitment, the natural diamond is a beautiful choice to symbolise this. 

In lab-grown diamond rings, the diamond often represents a smaller portion of the ring’s total value, with most of the cost going toward the gold, design, and craftsmanship. In contrast, natural diamond rings typically derive most of their value from the stone itself. For customers who want a diamond with long-term, inherent value as a core part of their engagement ring, a natural diamond is the better choice.