Lab Grown Diamonds: What They Are and How They Compare

What are lab grown diamonds?

Lab grown diamonds are real diamonds that share the same chemical composition and physical properties as natural diamonds. The primary difference between the two is their origin.

Natural diamonds form deep beneath the Earth’s surface over millions of years. Lab grown diamonds, by contrast, are produced in controlled laboratory environments using advanced technology that replicates the natural diamond-forming process.

Because they are made from the same carbon crystal structure as natural diamonds, lab grown diamonds display the same brilliance, sparkle and durability.

Lab grown diamonds are also sometimes referred to as engineered diamonds, cultured diamonds, synthetic diamonds or man-made diamonds.

How lab grown diamonds are created

Lab grown diamonds begin with a tiny carbon seed, typically taken from an existing diamond. This seed acts as the foundation from which the new diamond grows.

Using extremely high temperatures and pressure, scientists replicate the natural conditions under which diamonds form inside the Earth. Over time, carbon atoms crystallise around the seed, forming a rough diamond.

Once the diamond has grown, it is cut and polished in the same way as a natural diamond.

Can you tell the difference between lab grown and natural diamonds?

To the naked eye, lab grown diamonds are virtually indistinguishable from natural diamonds.

Only trained gemmologists using specialised equipment can detect the subtle differences in crystal growth patterns and trace elements that identify the diamond’s origin.

When compared side by side, a lab grown diamond and a natural diamond with similar specifications will appear the same in terms of brilliance, sparkle and clarity.

Are lab grown diamonds graded the same way?

Yes. Lab grown diamonds are graded using the same criteria as natural diamonds.

These criteria are known as the 4Cs of diamonds:

Carat

Clarity

Colour

Cut

Like natural diamonds, lab grown diamonds may contain inclusions and variations in colour and clarity. They are not automatically flawless simply because they are created in a laboratory.

Lab grown diamonds vs diamond simulants

Lab grown diamonds should not be confused with diamond simulants such as cubic zirconia or moissanite.

Simulants may resemble diamonds visually, but they do not share the same chemical composition or physical properties.

For example, moissanite is double refractive, meaning light splits into two rays when passing through the stone. Diamonds, on the other hand, are single refractive, which helps create their distinctive clarity and brilliance.

Methods used to grow diamonds in laboratories

There are two primary techniques used to create lab grown diamonds.

HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature)

The HPHT method recreates the natural environment in which diamonds form deep underground.

Diamond seeds are placed inside a growth chamber where temperatures can reach around 1,500°C and pressures can exceed one million PSI. Under these conditions, carbon crystallises and forms a diamond structure.

CVD (Chemical Vapour Deposition)

CVD is currently the most widely used method for producing lab grown diamonds.

In this process, a diamond seed is placed inside a vacuum chamber containing carbon-rich gases such as methane. The chamber is heated to extremely high temperatures (typically 700–900°C), allowing carbon atoms to separate and gradually build layers onto the seed until a rough diamond forms.

Lab grown diamonds and value

Lab grown diamonds often provide excellent value compared with natural diamonds.

Depending on the diamond’s specifications, lab grown diamonds may be around 30–60% less expensive than natural diamonds with similar characteristics.

Because of this price difference, many buyers find they can choose higher specifications within the same budget.

Are lab grown diamonds more ethical?

Lab grown diamonds are often viewed as an ethical option because they do not require traditional diamond mining.

However, both lab grown and natural diamonds have environmental and economic considerations.

Producing lab grown diamonds requires significant energy, while natural diamond mining supports employment and economic development in many regions around the world.

At Lorel Diamonds, natural diamonds are sourced from reputable suppliers who follow internationally recognised standards designed to prevent conflict diamonds entering the market.

Choosing between lab grown and natural diamonds

Deciding between lab grown and natural diamonds ultimately comes down to personal preference.

Some buyers prefer lab grown diamonds because they offer strong value and transparency in sourcing. Others prefer natural diamonds because of their rarity and geological history.

Both options have their advantages, and the best choice depends on individual priorities, preferences and budget.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are lab grown diamonds real diamonds?

Yes. Lab grown diamonds have the same chemical composition and crystal structure as natural diamonds. They are genuine diamonds, simply created in a laboratory rather than formed naturally underground.

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

Growing a lab grown diamond typically takes around four weeks, although the exact timeframe can vary depending on the size and growth method used.

Are lab grown diamonds cheaper than natural diamonds?

Lab grown diamonds are generally more affordable than natural diamonds with comparable specifications, often costing 30–60% less.

Do lab grown diamonds have the 4Cs?

Yes. Lab grown diamonds are graded using the same 4Cs — carat, clarity, colour and cut — as natural diamonds.

Are lab grown diamonds flawless?

No. Like natural diamonds, lab grown diamonds may contain inclusions and variations in colour or clarity.