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Lab grown Diamonds Guide

Lab grown diamonds are identical to their natural counterparts and can be a more affordable option. We are committed to going beyond industry standards to offer lab grown diamonds that are ethical and sustainable.

Lab grown Diamonds Guide

Lab grown diamonds are identical to their natural counterparts and can be a more affordable option. We are committed to going beyond industry standards to offer lab grown diamonds that are ethical and sustainable.

Shop Lab Grown Diamond By Shape

Why Choose Lab Grown Diamonds

  • Mining Free

    Lab diamonds are a responsible choice since they are grown with precise technology that involves no mining.

  • Beauty & Quality

    Lab grown diamonds have the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as mined diamonds.

  • Value

    Lab grown diamonds offer excellent value — so you can maximize your budget.

What are Lab Grown Diamonds?

Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Real?

How Are Lab Grown Diamonds Made?

Lab grown diamonds are created from tiny carbon seeds of pre-existing diamonds. Scientists use advanced technology – either extreme pressure and heat or a special deposition process known as chemical vapor deposition (CVD) – to mimic the method of natural diamond formation. Over the course of six to ten weeks, a rough diamond is formed. Then it’s cut, polished, and set in lab diamond jewelry such as a pair of rings,  earrings, a necklace, or a bracelet.

There are two primary methods of producing lab diamonds:

  • 1. High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT):

    This method mimics the conditions under which natural diamonds are formed inside the earth. To produce the lab diamond, a large machine is fed a certain amount of carbon material that it then crushes under pressures of more than 870,000 lbs. per square inch at extreme temperatures ranging from 1300 – 1600 degrees Celsius.

  • 2. Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD):

    CVD is when a seed diamond is placed in a small, vacuum chamber filled with heated hydrogen and carbon-containing gasses. At a certain temperature, the gas molecules are broken down and layers of crystallized carbon begin to form around the seed, growing a more substantial diamond. Some lab diamonds created through CVD may also undergo pressure and heat treatment after they are grown.

You can’t tell the difference between natural diamonds, lab diamonds grown via HPHT method, and lab diamonds grown via CVD method with the naked eye, only scientists can distinguish the differences by analyzing identifying markers caused by the growth conditions.

Lab Grown Diamonds vs. Natural Diamonds

Lab Grown Diamonds vs. Natural Diamonds

It is important to note the major distinction between lab grown diamonds and natural diamonds. Lab grown diamonds are created in a controlled environment using advanced technology that replicates the natural diamond-forming process. Both lab grown diamonds and natural diamonds are composed of pure carbon crystals arranged in a cubic structure.

Lab Grown Diamonds: These diamonds are produced in laboratories using either High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) or Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) methods. While they have the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as natural diamonds, they are created in a fraction of the time it takes for natural diamonds to form. Lab grown diamonds are nearly indistinguishable from natural diamonds to the naked eye, although gemological testing can identify subtle differences, such as trace elements or growth patterns specific to lab-created stones.

Natural Diamonds: Natural diamonds, on the other hand, are formed deep within the Earth under extreme heat and pressure over billions of years. Each natural diamond is unique, often containing inclusions or "birthmarks" that give insight into its geological history. Due to their rarity and the extensive process required to mine them, natural diamonds are generally more expensive than lab grown diamonds. However, the two types of diamonds are identical in terms of hardness, brilliance, and durability.

Natural and lab grown diamonds share the same physical and chemical properties, but the process of creation and price point sets them apart. Gemologists can differentiate the two based on microscopic features, but to most consumers, lab grown and natural diamonds appear the same.

Lab Grown Diamond Ring Settings

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Lab Grown Diamond Benefits

Lab grown diamonds are an excellent alternative to mined diamonds. Not only are they physically identical, but they’re also sourced responsibly and are more cost-effective. Some of the biggest advantages of a lab created diamond include:

  • Fewer defects
  • Greater affordability
  • Colors that are rarely found in nature can be created, making unique and coveted pieces more obtainable
  • Trackable origin sources allow us to source diamonds from reputable places that don't engage in poor treatment of workers or communities
  • HPHT and CVD lab grown diamond methods make it easier to keep up with demand without sacrificing quality or engaging in harmful processes

Lab Diamonds By Color

Our lab created diamonds are available in a variety of colorless ranges. We also offer lab diamonds in fancy colors that are considered very rare in nature, including popular hues of vivid yellows, blues, and pinks. Man made fancy colored diamonds are formed when small amounts of specific trace elements are present during the growth phase of the created diamond, just like in nature. Fancy colored lab created diamonds sell at more affordable prices compared to their natural colored diamond counterparts.

How Are Lab Grown Diamonds Certified and Graded?

Sustainably Rated Lab Grown Diamonds

Lab Grown Diamond FAQs

Why are lab grown diamonds more affordable than natural diamonds?

Lab grown diamonds are more affordable than natural diamonds primarily because of their production process. While natural diamonds have taken millions of years to form under extreme pressure and temperature deep within the Earth's crust, lab grown diamonds are created in a controlled environment using advanced technology that mimics the natural diamond-growing process. This significantly reduces the time and resources required for their formation, resulting in lower production costs and, subsequently, a more affordable price for consumers.

How much do lab grown diamonds cost?

The cost of lab grown diamonds can vary depending on factors such as size and quality. Generally, lab grown diamonds are priced less than natural diamonds of comparable quality.

How can you tell if a diamond is lab grown?

Distinguishing between lab grown and natural diamonds isn’t possible with the naked eye. However, gemologists can identify lab grown diamonds through various methods. Most lab grown diamonds exhibit certain features or "fingerprints" that differ from natural diamonds. One common technique to identify them is using specialized equipment like spectroscopy to view fluorescence patterns. Additionally, some lab grown diamonds may have tiny inclusions or growth patterns that are not typical in natural diamonds, providing further clues to their origin.

How can a jeweler tell if a diamond is lab grown?

Jewelers can tell if a diamond is lab grown through various gemological tests. They may use equipment like a DiamondView tester, which relies on a diamond's fluorescence properties, or conduct advanced spectroscopy to analyze the gem's composition and structure. Additionally, many jewelers work with accredited diamond grading labs who provide documentation, such as grading reports, confirming the origin of the diamond. By relying on scientific methods and credible sources, jewelers can confidently determine whether a diamond is natural or lab grown.  

How do you clean lab created diamonds?

Cleaning lab grown diamonds is similar to cleaning natural diamonds. You can use warm soapy water and a soft brush to remove dirt and grime. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials as they may damage the diamond or its setting. Regular cleaning helps maintain the diamond's brilliance and beauty. 

How long do lab grown diamonds last?

Lab grown diamonds, like natural diamonds, are extremely durable and can last indefinitely with proper care. They are composed of carbon atoms arranged in a crystal lattice, making them resistant to wear and scratches. As long as they are well-maintained and properly cared for, lab grown diamonds will maintain their sparkle and appearance for generations. 

Is a lab grown diamond a real diamond?

Lab created diamonds are diamonds, just like natural diamonds. The primary difference lies in their origin: lab created diamonds are grown in controlled environments, while natural diamonds form naturally in the Earth's mantle. Chemically and physically, They are chemically, physically, and optically identical to natural diamonds, with the same hardness, brilliance, and fire. 

Will a diamond made in a lab get cloudy?

Lab grown diamonds, or man-made diamonds, do not inherently become cloudy. A cloudy appearance in diamonds, whether natural or lab grown, is usually caused by the presence of certain impurities or structural irregularities. High-quality lab grown diamonds are as clear and brilliant as natural diamonds.  

Is there a difference between lab and synthetic diamonds?

No. The terms "lab grown diamonds" and "synthetic diamonds" are used interchangeably by the Gemological Institute of America (commonly referred to as the GIA).

Are lab diamonds flawless?

Lab grown diamonds, like natural diamonds, can have various clarity grades, ranging from flawless (no inclusions visible under 10x magnification) to included (inclusions visible to the naked eye). The presence of inclusions or imperfections can affect the clarity of a lab grown diamond, just like with natural diamonds. Higher quality lab grown diamonds with fewer inclusions are generally more valuable and sought after. 

Are lab diamonds a good investment?

Most customers purchase a lab grown diamond as a symbol of love and commitment, not as an investment. As the technology required to create a lab grown diamond is still relatively new, they are not expected to appreciate over time.

If lab grown diamonds are created in lab, why aren't they all perfect?

While lab grown diamonds are created under controlled conditions, it's important to remember that they still can have imperfections. Just like natural diamonds, lab grown diamonds can have variations in color, clarity, and other characteristics. Factors such as the specific growth method, the quality of the seed crystal, and environmental conditions during the growth process can all influence the final appearance of the diamond. As with any gemstone, selecting a lab grown diamond of higher quality will generally result in a more perfect and desirable stone.

Are lab diamonds becoming more popular?

Lab-grown diamonds are becoming more popular due to their ethical and sustainable appeal, affordability, advancements in technology, and quality. Consumers are increasingly drawn to these diamonds for their responsible sourcing, lower prices, and high-quality appearance, leading to a shifting trend in the diamond market. While natural diamonds remain valuable, the rising popularity of lab-grown diamonds reflects a growing interest in sustainable and accessible options among consumers.

How long does it take to make a lab grown diamond?

Lab diamonds take between six and ten weeks to fully develop compared to the 1 to 3 million years for natural diamonds.