Lab-grown diamonds (LGDs) are changing how people think about fine jewellery with both LGDs and earth-mined diamonds sharing the same chemical properties and striking good looks.
Lab-grown diamonds are generally more affordable than their earth-mined contemporaries and tend to be viewed as a more ethical and environmentally friendly choice.
That said, mined diamonds are often perceived as rarer, tend to retain their value better over time, and are preferred by those who appreciate tradition and long-term investment potential.
So, what are the differences between the two? And should you choose a lab-grown or earth-mined diamond ring for your next piece of jewellery?
Here’s a quick guide to help you decide.
A brief history of lab-grown diamonds
The idea of lab-created diamonds is not new. Since the 1950s, synthetic diamonds have been under experimentation by scientists - primarily for use in industrial instruments.
But the grade of these diamonds rose along with technological development.
The jewellery business noticed this early in the 2000s when lab-grown diamonds became almost indistinguishable from real ones.
Providing a more affordable, ecological and ethical option without sacrificing beauty, brilliance or quality, today, lab-grown diamonds are a popular choice for diamond rings and other jewellery.
What are lab-grown diamonds?
Lab-grown diamonds are exactly what it says on the tin! These diamonds are created in a lab rather than mined from the earth. They're made using high-tech processes that mimic the natural diamond-growing conditions, resulting in sparkling gemstones that are physically, chemically, and optically identical to mined diamonds.
How are lab-grown diamonds made?
Two basic techniques are typically used in lab-grown diamond creation:
- Chemical vapour deposition (CVD) is a process that uses a chemical reaction to create lab-grown diamonds. A tiny diamond seed is placed in a chamber surrounded by carbon-rich gases. The gases break down, enabling carbon atoms to link to the seed, progressively layer by layer, creating the diamond.
- The High-Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) method transforms carbon into a brilliant diamond crystal by reproducing the high heat and pressure conditions under which diamonds develop beneath the earth.
Both methods create real diamonds as beautiful and durable as their mined counterparts.
Are LGDs purely used for jewellery?
Interesting fact - lab-grown diamonds go far beyond being used for jewellery. As we mentioned above, they were initially designed for industrial instruments, and today, LGDs are still indispensable in engineering and medicine.
Lab-grown diamonds, for instance, are used to manufacture precision scalpels for delicate eye surgery, aid in breaking down dangerous compounds in water treatment and help identify cancer during MRI scans.
What are the differences between lab-grown diamonds and mined diamonds?
While lab-grown and earth-mined diamonds look identical - they have the same depth, brilliance and sparkle - there are a few main differences:
- Price: LGDs are great for those looking for more affordable diamonds, costing around 30-50% less than earth-mined diamonds.
- Origin: It takes millions of years for mined diamonds to be formed deep within the earth. LGDs can be created in just a few weeks.
- Ethical impact: Lab-grown diamonds are free from the concerns associated with diamond mining, such as unfair labour practices and environmental damage.
- Sustainability: Diamond mining can have a significant environmental impact, whereas lab-grown diamonds require fewer natural resources.
Why are lab-grown diamonds considered ethical?
Probably one of the biggest reasons people choose lab-grown diamonds is for their ethical appeal. Here’s why:
- Traceable origins: Every lab-grown diamond has a clear history, so you can feel confident it was produced ethically.
- No conflict diamonds: Also known as “blood diamonds,” some mined diamonds have been linked to unethical practices, including child labour and funding conflicts.
- Reduced environmental impact: Diamond mining requires vast amounts of energy and water and can lead to deforestation and habitat destruction. Lab-grown diamonds have a much smaller footprint.
Are lab-grown diamonds real diamonds?
Yes! Lab-grown diamonds have the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as earth-mined diamonds. They're real diamonds in every way, with the same sparkle, durability and brilliance!
Can you tell the difference between lab-grown and earth-mined diamonds?
Not with the naked eye. Typically, you’ll need specialist equipment. (See the next section).
How do I know if my diamond is lab-grown?
Determining whether your diamond is lab-grown can involve several methods:
- Laser inscription: Many lab-grown diamonds have a laser inscription on their girdle (the diamond's outer edge) indicating their origin. This inscription often includes " Laboratory-Grown " and a report number. You can view this marking using a jeweller's loupe or microscope.
- Certification reports: Reputable gemmological laboratories provide detailed reports for diamonds they evaluate. These reports specify whether a diamond is natural or lab-grown. If you have such a certificate, it will clearly state the diamond's origin.
- Professional evaluation: If no inscription or certificate exists, it's best to consult a professional gemmologist. They can use advanced testing methods to determine the diamond's origin.
Are synthetic diamonds the same as lab-grown diamonds?
Lab-grown diamonds and synthetic diamonds are often terms used interchangeably, but they are not the same thing. The key differences lie in their composition, properties, and how they are created:
- Lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds in that they have the same chemical, physical, and optical properties as mined diamonds.
- The term "synthetic diamonds" is sometimes mistakenly used to describe lab-grown diamonds, but it is more accurately applied to diamond simulants such as cubic zirconia and moissanite. These materials may look like diamonds but have different chemical compositions and physical properties.
Are ethical diamonds the same as lab-grown diamonds?
No, ethical diamonds and lab-grown diamonds are not the same, though they share some similarities. The main difference lies in their origin and how they are sourced.
Lab-grown diamonds are created in a laboratory using advanced technology that replicates the natural formation process of diamonds.
Ethical diamonds (also known as conflict-free stones) refer to mined diamonds that are sourced responsibly, ensuring they do not contribute to environmental harm, human rights abuses, or conflict funding. You can read more here on our blog - Ethical diamonds: What you need to know about conflict-free stones.
Do lab-grown diamonds lose value?
Like mined diamonds, lab-grown diamonds can depreciate after purchase. However, since they cost less upfront, they can still be an excellent investment for those looking for a beautiful and ethical gemstone.
What are the environmental and ethical impacts of lab-grown diamonds?
Lab-grown diamonds skip the mining process, which is great for reducing land destruction and water waste. However, they require a lot of energy to produce, and if the power comes from non-renewable sources, they can still have a carbon footprint.
Some people also have concerns about the impact of LGDs on traditional diamond mining communities, where jobs depend on the industry.
Do lab-grown diamonds have the same sentimental value?
Of course! Some people love the tradition and symbolism behind natural diamonds, especially for engagement rings. Others see lab-grown diamonds as a modern, ethical alternative that still offers the same beauty and sparkle. It all comes down to what you decide.
Can I get insurance for a lab-grown diamond?
Yes! Many jewellers and insurance companies offer policies for lab-grown diamonds, just as they do for earth-mined ones.
At Assetsure, for example, our diamond ring insurance offers what we believe is comprehensive protection for your diamond ring – whether lab-grown, synthetic or mined. Key features include:
- Accidental loss: If you lose your ring, whether at home or abroad.
- Accidental damage: Protection against unexpected damage to your diamond ring.
- Theft: Financial compensation if your ring is stolen.
- Loss of stones: Cover for lost or damaged stones, including the main diamond and smaller accent stones.
- Worldwide cover: Protection extends globally, with each trip covered up to 60 days.
- No excess: In the event of a successful claim, there's no excess to pay, ensuring full compensation and no out-of-pocket expenses.
(Terms and conditions apply).
Do lab-grown diamonds come in different colours?
Lab-grown diamonds do come in different colours, just like earth-mined diamonds. Through controlled growth processes, manufacturers can create LGDs in various shades, including white (colourless), yellow, pink, blue, green, and even purple.
However, mined diamonds naturally occur in a wider variety of colours, including extremely rare shades such as deep red and certain hues of violet and orange - these are more challenging to replicate in a lab.
Are LGDs just as durable as mined diamonds?
Definitely! They are just as robust as mined diamonds (ranking 10 on the Mohs hardness scale), making them perfect for everyday wear.
What is right for you? A lab-grown diamond ring or an earth-mined diamond ring?
The choice between lab-grown and mined diamonds ultimately comes down to personal preference. If sustainability, affordability, and transparency matter to you, then lab-grown diamonds could be the perfect choice for your next piece of jewellery.
Disclaimer
This guide is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, environmental, or ethical advice. While we strive for accuracy, diamond value, sustainability impact, and ethical considerations may vary based on evolving industry standards and market conditions. Always consult with a professional jeweller or gemmologist for personalised guidance before making a purchase.
