You must have come across the term lab-grown diamonds several times before you’ve come here. But the question you ask yourself every time you hear about it is: are lab-grown diamonds real? That’s a valid question. The short answer is yes. Lab-grown diamonds are real. However, a simple yes doesn’t work. You would need some more useful insights into these diamonds to determine their true value. So, here’s a guide that does it.
What is a Lab Grown Diamond?
Unlike mined diamonds that form deep inside the earth, lab-grown diamonds are created in a controlled environment. The manufacturing process involves specialized technology to recreate the conditions of natural diamond growth. The conditions typically include high pressure and high temperature (HPHT) or chemical vapor deposition (CVD).
The process begins with a tiny diamond seed. Later, carbon atoms build up on it layer by layer until a rough crystal forms. The makers then cut the crystal and have skilled artisans polish it.
Are Lab Grown Diamonds Real?
Yes. Lab-grown diamonds have the same chemical composition (carbon), crystal structure, and optical properties as mined.
The year 2018 marked a significant change in diamond history. The US Federal Trade Commission removed the word “natural” from its definition of a diamond, as man-made diamonds have the same structure, characteristics, and properties as mined ones.
Can You Tell the Difference with the Naked Eye?
No. Even seasoned jewelers cannot distinguish between them with the naked eye, as both feature the same fire, clarity, and brilliance. Besides, both have a rating of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale. So, if at all you have to differentiate between the two, you need specialized equipment.
How Do They Test Lab-Grown Diamonds?
A grading report documents a diamond's characteristics and lab-grown origin. Two established laboratories, GIA and IGI, use different approaches for eligible colorless-to-near-colorless lab-grown diamonds.
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GIA: Since October 1, 2025, GIA has used an overall Premium or Standard quality assessment for eligible D-to-Z lab-grown diamonds. The assessment considers factors such as clarity, color, polish, symmetry, and cut. It doesn’t apply its traditional natural-diamond color and clarity nomenclature to these stones anymore.
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IGI: IGI continues to assess lab-grown diamonds with the traditional 4Cs framework: cut, color, clarity, and carat weight. Its reports provide individual grades for these characteristics.
Note: A GIA Premium assessment is not equivalent to a specific IGI grade combination. While comparing diamonds, you must review the actual report and the grading system used.
What do the Certificates Tell You?
Man-made diamonds often come with grading reports from recognized gemological laboratories. However, you must understand what the certificates say. Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and the International Gemological Institute (IGI) grade lab-grown diamonds using the same framework that applies to mined diamonds: the 4Cs:
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Cut: How the diamond’s proportions and facets influence its light performance, based on the report’s grading scope.
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Color: The degree of color in the diamond.
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Clarity: The presence and visibility of internal inclusions and external blemishes.
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Carat weight: The diamond’s weight, instead of its size.
These institutes offer documentation for lab-grown diamonds. However, their report formats and grading approaches may differ.
So, before buying, you must check that the report matches the stone you look to buy. Where available, you must verify its report number through the lab's official website.
Are Lab-Grown Diamonds the Same as Moissanite?
No. They aren’t. Both are lab-created gemstones but their chemical compositions differ. Moissanite is gemstone made of silicon carbide. On the other hand, diamonds, whether mined or lab-grown, comprise carbon atoms in a crystalline structure. So, although moissanite looks like a diamond, it is a different gemstone with distinct optical and physical properties.
What Should You Check Before Buying a Lab-Grown Diamond?
Here are some straightforward, yet important tips to consider before you buy a lab-grown diamond.
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Choose a stone with an independent grading report from a known lab.
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Prioritize cut quality that shapes how a diamond comes alive in the light.
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View the diamond in person when you can, in different lighting.
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Ask about return policies, warranties, and servicing.
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Choose the design that feels like you and suits your persona.
How Does a Lab-Grown Diamond Hold its Value?
Now, this is another crucial question. Lab-grown diamonds are usually priced much below mined diamonds, despite the same size and quality. Therefore, their resale value is lower and less predictable. Nevertheless, production technology continues to evolve and influences prices. A better approach to man-made diamonds is the elegance and value they add to your life.
How Do You Care for a Lab-Grown Diamond?
The same way you would for any other diamond. Here are some useful tips.
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Clean your diamond with a soft brush, warm water, and a little mild soap to maintain its appearance.
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Check the setting with a jeweler once a year, since the metalwork demands attention over time.
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Store it separately from other pieces of jewelry to avoid scratches on softer pieces.
Lab Grown vs. Mined: Which Should You Choose?
Choosing between a lab-grown and mined diamond often boils down to individual taste, preference, and values. So, you can choose:
A lab-grown diamond if: You value cutting-edge innovation, need a specific size or quality profile within a refined budget.
Choose a mined diamond if: You value the traditional rarity and geological history of a natural gemstone.
Final Words!
Diamonds aren’t commercial investments. They are a personal value proposition. Therefore, the value they build for your journey matters more than the returns they may reap.
At LuvMyJewelry, we believe a confident purchase begins with understanding your options. So, as you explore lab-grown diamond jewelry, we allow you to compare the details, ask questions about grading documentation, and consider how each piece fits into your life. We aim to enhance your shopping experience by making it informed and comfortable.
So, we hope the above guide answered your question. However, if you need more guidance and insights into lab-grown diamonds, we are here to help.
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