For over a century, our family-owned jewellery store has had the privilege of guiding customers through some of life’s most meaningful moments—anniversaries, birthdays, and engagements. Over the years, we have watched styles evolve, new technologies emerge, and customer preferences shift. One of the most significant modern innovations in the jewellery industry is the advent of the lab grown diamond. Curious customers, especially those shopping for engagement rings, frequently ask about lab grown diamonds—how they are made, how they differ from natural diamonds, and whether they are “real.” If you’ve been wondering the same, this blog post is for you.
1. What Exactly Is a Lab Grown Diamond?
To start with the basics, a lab grown diamond (sometimes called a “synthetic diamond” or “cultured diamond”) is a gemstone produced in a laboratory or a controlled industrial setting. Using high-tech equipment that mimics the earth’s natural process of forming diamonds over millions of years, scientists can create a diamond in a fraction of that time—usually several weeks to a few months.
Chemically and physically, lab grown diamonds share the same characteristics as their natural counterparts. They are composed of pure carbon, arranged in a crystal structure that is one of the hardest substances known to man. Their brilliance and clarity can be impressive, and, in many respects, they look quite similar to natural diamonds.
2. How Are Lab Grown Diamonds Made?
There are two primary methods used to create lab grown diamonds:
- High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) In the HPHT process, a tiny diamond “seed” is placed into a pressurized chamber. Temperatures within the chamber can reach over 1,300°C, and pressures can measure more than 870,000 psi. This environment is carefully calibrated to mimic the conditions found deep beneath the Earth’s surface, where natural diamonds crystallize over eons. The carbon melts, and layers begin forming around the seed crystal. Over time, these layers create a fully formed diamond.
- Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) The second method involves placing a diamond seed (often an HPHT-generated diamond or a thin slice of diamond) into a chamber filled with carbon-rich gases, such as methane. The chamber is heated to around 800°C, and the gases ionize into plasma, causing the carbon molecules to bond with the diamond seed. Over weeks, this results in the growth of a diamond crystal.
Both HPHT and CVD processes have improved significantly over the past decade. As the technology advances, the size and quality of lab grown diamonds continue to increase, making them more widely available and, in many cases, more affordable than their natural counterparts.
3. Are Lab Grown Diamonds “Real” Diamonds?
Chemically speaking, yes, lab grown diamonds are “real” diamonds. They share the same carbon structure and can exhibit the same level of brilliance and clarity as naturally formed stones. They are also graded by many of the same gemological laboratories that evaluate natural diamonds, with standardized assessments of the 4 Cs—cut, color, clarity, and carat.
This important distinction sets lab grown diamonds apart from diamond simulants like cubic zirconia or moissanite. Diamond simulants generally have different chemical compositions, densities, or optical properties. They can be convincing to an untrained eye but are not considered “real” diamonds in a gemological sense.
4. The Differences in Origin and Formation
Although lab grown diamonds have the same chemical and physical properties as natural diamonds, there are some differences to keep in mind:
- Formation Time: Natural diamonds form under intense heat and pressure deep within the Earth, a process that can span hundreds of millions to billions of years. Lab grown diamonds, on the other hand, are produced in a matter of weeks or months through controlled industrial processes.
- Trace Elements: While both types of diamonds are essentially carbon, the formation process can leave subtle chemical clues behind. Natural diamonds often contain “fingerprints” in the form of microscopic inclusions and trace elements from Earth’s mantle. Lab grown diamonds might exhibit distinct growth patterns or minor inclusions tied to the manufacturing method.
- Rarity: No matter how advanced technology becomes, a diamond that takes nature millions of years to create has an element of historical wonder and geological rarity. Lab grown diamonds, on the other hand, rely on technological capability rather than geological fortune.
5. Environmental and Ethical Considerations
Many people are drawn to lab grown diamonds because they perceive them as a more sustainable, ethical choice. It is true that mining operations can be energy-intensive, and in some regions, there have been concerns about conflict diamonds. However, it’s important to note that reputable natural diamond suppliers adhere to strict protocols like the Kimberley Process to ensure diamonds are responsibly sourced. Likewise, lab grown diamond production isn’t entirely without environmental impact, as the processes used consume significant electricity and resources.
Evaluating the true “eco-friendliness” of lab grown versus natural diamonds can be complex, depending on factors such as energy sources and mining practices. Our advice is to look for transparent companies that provide data on their environmental impact, whether you choose lab grown or natural diamonds.
6. How Do Lab Grown Diamonds Compare in Cost?
One of the biggest selling points of lab grown diamonds is price. Because they can be produced more quickly and repeatedly, lab grown diamonds often come at a lower cost per carat compared to natural diamonds. For some couples looking for a larger stone or a more budget-friendly option, the appeal is undeniable.
However, price alone is not the only consideration. While lab grown stones might allow a buyer to invest in a bigger diamond for less, it’s worth noting that the long-term value and resale market for lab grown diamonds is still evolving. Some prefer the romance and investment security of a stone created naturally over billions of years, while others appreciate the innovative technology and potential cost savings of a synthetic gemstone.
7. The Emotional and Historical Value of Natural Diamonds
Our store, having flourished for over a century, has witnessed countless proposals, weddings, and celebrations. Over that time, we’ve observed that natural diamonds often carry a unique emotional resonance. Customers are drawn to the idea that their stone is a result of Earth’s remarkable geological processes—a piece of ancient history that resonates with stories of endurance and eternal love.
This intangible value should not be disregarded; it can lend depth to a piece of jewellery that might be passed down through generations. While lab grown diamonds can certainly hold personal significance, there is something particularly special about wearing a gemstone that took Mother Nature so long to create. That sense of awe and connection to the Earth’s history is challenging to replicate in a laboratory.
8. The Future of Lab Grown Diamonds
As technology for creating lab grown diamonds continues to refine, it’s likely we’ll see even larger and higher-quality lab grown gems on the market. Many in the industry believe that lab grown diamonds will become more common in everyday jewellery due to their affordability, vibrant clarity, and ethical considerations—especially among environmentally conscious shoppers.
Retailers may stock more diverse selections of lab grown stones, and certain brands might specialize in them. Consumers interested in unique diamond shapes, colors, or custom designs might find the flexibility of lab grown diamonds appealing, as laboratories can potentially tailor diamond growth to meet specific style demands.
9. Navigating Your Options
When shopping for a diamond—whether natural or lab grown—it’s essential to consider your values, budget, and the significance of the piece. Here are a few tips:
- Research and Certification: Insist on diamond certification from reputable gemological laboratories, whether the stone is lab grown or natural. This will help you understand the diamond’s characteristics accurately.
- Compare Costs: Look at prices for similar-quality lab grown and natural diamonds. Determine which one best fits your budget and long-term preferences.
- Think About Legacy: Are you looking for a ring that might become a family heirloom? Natural diamonds have a time-honored legacy, while lab grown stones bring a modern, technological touch. Decide which story resonates with you.
- Ask Questions: Don’t be afraid to inquire about sourcing, ethical practices, or environmental impacts. A trustworthy jeweller should be transparent about how and where their stones are sourced or produced.
- Consider the Emotional Factor: Diamonds are not just about sparkle and value; they can represent milestones in a relationship. Reflect on which type of diamond best captures the sentiment you want to convey.
10. Finding the Right Ring for Your Love Story
At our store, we take pride in offering both natural diamonds and, for those who prefer, lab grown diamonds. Our goal is to provide the best guidance possible, ensuring each customer finds a ring that symbolizes their love story. We recognize the impressive technology and craftsmanship behind lab grown diamonds, yet we also appreciate the timeless appeal of a natural diamond that has journeyed from deep within the Earth to become part of your special day.
In the end, there is no universal “right” choice—only the one that feels meaningful to you. A diamond is a celebration of love, commitment, and the promises you make when you slip that ring on your partner’s finger. Whether you choose a lab grown diamond for its modern innovation or a natural diamond for its ancient origins, the symbol itself remains deeply significant.
Closing Thoughts
Lab grown diamonds are an exciting evolution in the jewellery world. They are undeniably innovative and can be a great option for those seeking a bigger stone or a more cost-effective solution. Still, for many couples, the story and rarity behind natural diamonds hold incomparable allure. It’s that enduring value—a captivating link to the depths of the Earth—that has entranced generations of diamond lovers.
If you have further questions about lab grown or natural diamonds, we invite you to reach out or visit our store. We’ve spent more than a hundred years perfecting the art of personalized service, and it’s our greatest pleasure to help you find the perfect ring that captures the story of your everlasting love.