Are lab diamonds real diamonds? YES! Are lab diamonds worth anything? YES!

There has been a lot of debate regarding what a lab grown (also known as lab-created) diamond is and if it’s a “real” diamond. 

Let’s dive into what sets these stones apart (or doesn’t) from naturally-mined diamonds. Of course, it’s a personal preference, but we don’t think lab grown diamonds are a fad, in fact, we think they’re here for the long haul.

What is a lab grown diamond?

The main difference between a lab grown diamond and a naturally-mined diamond is simply the way it is created. A mined diamond is formed naturally deep beneath the Earth’s crust where temperatures and pressures are very high. These diamonds can only be mined when rare volcanoes erupt and bring them close to the surface.  

We imitate that same process in our lab using a High-Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) or Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) process. What starts as a diamond seed— a minuscule slice of a diamond— blossoms into a large, rough diamond as carbon atoms grow around it. These stones are grown in certified labs.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT LAB-GROWN DIAMOND JEWELRY

1. Are lab grown diamonds real diamonds?

Yes, they are real diamonds. Lab grown and mined diamonds cannot be differentiated with the naked eye. They have the same brilliance and grading system as a mined diamond. You can’t tell the difference between lab grown diamonds and mined diamonds without specialized equipment, even if you’re a professional gemologist! The best way to tell the difference between lab grown diamonds and mined diamonds is to look at the grading report.

2. Do lab grown diamonds have flaws?

Both mined and lab grown diamonds are at the mercy of science, and there is no way to guarantee a perfect diamond. All diamonds will inevitably include different amounts of flaws and inclusions, which is why they are graded and certified.

3. Are lab grown diamonds Certified?

A lab-grown diamond is graded and certified using the same process as a mined diamond. Just like our mined diamonds, our lab grown diamonds are sent to a gem lab that specializes in grading diamonds. Each diamond is graded using the 4C’s (cut, clarity, color, and carat). Both are held to the exact same standards. (Learn more about the 4Cs.) 

4. Why are lab grown diamonds less expensive?

Lab grown and mined diamonds have the same costs when it comes to cutting, polishing, and inspection. The difference in price stems from engineering and mass quantity produced.

5. Do lab grown diamonds retain value?

Lab grown diamonds are produced in abundance; therefore, the ensuing value is unpredictable over time.

6. Can you insure a lab grown diamond ring?

Lab grown diamonds may cost less, but there is no difference when it comes to insuring your precious piece of jewelry.

7. Is a Cubic Zirconia (CZ) and/or moissanite, the same as a lab grown diamond?

Absolutely not. There is nothing more brilliant or durable than a diamond. CZ's and moissanites are less durable and have less light performance.

SHOULD I BUY MINED OR LAB GROWN DIAMOND?

There is no wrong answer. The decision is entirely up to you depending on which type of diamond you prefer. 

You should buy a lab grown diamond if:

• You’re looking for a budget-friendly option (lab grown diamonds cost 30% less, on average than their mined counterparts)
• A lab grown diamond can represent modern love
• Maybe you appreciate the latest advances in modern technology 

You should buy a naturally-mined diamond if:

• Having a mined diamond made naturally in the Earth is important to you
• Maybe you have a classic approach to love 
• A mined diamond can also be a representation of nature’s miracle surrounded by mysterious origins

The bottom line: Overall, lab grown stones share the same physical and chemical properties as natural diamonds. Lab grown diamonds are real diamonds that last forever but are an estimated 30% less expensive than mined diamonds. Overall, neither diamond is “better.” They are not in competition with one another. What matters is the significance you put on your diamond and what it means to you.

Still not sure? Rogers & Hollands and Ashcroft & Oak have been a leading voice in lab-grown diamonds for more than 10 years. You can check out our online collection of lab grown diamond jewelry here, or see them in person at one of our store locations (call first to make sure we have them available for you to compare side-by-side!).

We’re willing to bet you won’t be able to tell the difference, but the price variance will be hard to overlook.