In the ever-evolving world of fine jewellery, lab grown diamonds are fast becoming the go-to choice for modern buyers. With the same physical, chemical, and optical characteristics as natural diamonds, these stunning stones are grown above ground using cutting-edge technology, offering beauty, brilliance, and value without the environmental and ethical issues tied to traditional mining.
Whether you're searching for the perfect engagement ring, a timeless pendant, or an elegant pair of earrings, lab grown diamonds offer a conscious and stylish alternative. More affordable than their mined counterparts, yet indistinguishable in appearance, these diamonds have transformed the way we view luxury and sustainability.
As more people seek transparency, traceability, and value in their jewellery. Lab grown presents a future-focused option that doesn’t compromise on sparkle or sentiment. In this blog, we’ll explore what lab grown diamonds are, how they're create, and why they’ve become such a modern favourite in the world of ethical jewellery.
What Are Lab Grown Diamonds?
Lab grown diamonds, also known as man-made, synthetic, or culture diamonds, are real diamonds that are creat in a laboratory rather than mine from the earth. They have the same chemical composition. Crystal structure and optical properties as natural diamonds, meaning they are just as hard, brilliant, and durable.
Unlike simulants such as cubic zirconia or Moissanite, lab grown diamonds are 100% carbon, just like natural diamonds. The only difference lies in their origin: one is form deep underground over billions of years, while the other is produce in high-tech labs in a matter of weeks using advance technology.
There are two main methods used to grow these diamonds:
- High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) – Mimics the natural conditions under the Earth’s surface.
- Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD) – Uses a gas-rich chamber to grow the diamond layer by layer.
Lab grown diamonds are grade and certified using the same standards as mine diamonds based on the 4Cs: cut, colour, clarity, and carat weight, by reputable institutions like IGI or GIA. To the naked eye, even experts often cannot tell the difference without specialist equipment.
How Are They Made?
High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT)
This method simulates the intense heat and pressure found deep beneath the Earth’s surface. A small diamond seed is place into a carbon source and exposed to extremely high temperatures (over 1,500°C) and pressures of around 1.5 million pounds per square inch. Under these conditions, the carbon melts and begins to form a diamond around the seed. Once cool, the result is a fully form diamond that is then cut, polish, and ready to be set into fine jewellery
Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD)
CVD is a newer and more energy-efficient method. It starts with a thin slice of diamond seed placed inside a vacuum chamber. The chamber is fill with carbon-rich gases, such as methane, and heate to around 800°C. These gases break down, and the carbon atoms bond to the seed, building up the diamond layer by layer. Over time, this process produces a high-quality diamond that can cut and polish just like a mine one.
Lab Grown vs Natural Diamonds
Origin
Created in a lab using HPHT or CVD methods.
Formed underground over billions of years.
Appearance
Indistinguishable from natural diamonds.
Identical in appearance to lab diamonds.
Environmental Impact
More sustainable, less land and water use.
Mining can damage ecosystems and consume resources.
Ethics
Conflict-free and fully traceable origin.
Risk of unethical sourcing if not certified.
Price
More affordable (30–50% less).
More expensive due to rarity and demand.
Resale Value
Lower resale value; market still developing.
Traditionally holds value better over time.
Lab grown and natural diamonds are virtually identical in appearance, sparkle, and structure; the main difference lies in how they are form. Natural diamonds are create over billions of years deep within the Earth’s mantle. Brought to the surface through intense geological processes. In contrast, lab grown are cultivate in control laboratory environments using advanced technology that replicates these natural conditions in a matter of weeks.
Visually and chemically, both types of diamonds are the same. They are compose of pure carbon, rank 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, and can cut and polish to identical standards. Even expert gemmologists need specialised equipment to tell them apart. However, the origins of these diamonds lead to notable differences in their environmental and ethical impacts.
Are Lab Grown Diamonds Real?
They are chemically, physically, and optically identical to natural diamonds. The only difference is their origin: natural diamonds are form deep within the Earth over billions of years, whereas lab grown diamonds are create in a laboratory in just a few weeks using advance technology that mimics natural conditions.
Just like natural diamonds, lab grown diamonds are:
- Made of pure carbon arranged in a crystal structure
- Graded by the same 4Cs (cut, colour, clarity, carat)
- Certified by recognised gemmological labs such as IGI
- Able to pass a diamond tester (they conduct heat and electricity in the same way)
They’re not imitations like cubic zirconia or synthetic simulants; they’re authentic gemstones, with all the brilliance, sparkle, and hardness you'd expect.
Lab Grown Diamonds in Modern Jewellery
Lab grown are transforming the jewellery world, offering a perfect blend of beauty, innovation, and ethical choice. As consumer awareness around sustainability and responsible sourcing continues to grow, so does the demand for jewellery that reflects these values and lab grown are leading the way. They provide the same sparkle, clarity, and hardness as their natural counterparts. Making them a fitting choice for everything from engagement rings and wedding sets to statement necklaces and delicate everyday pieces.
Contemporary jewellers are embracing lab grown stones not only for their ethical appeal but also for their versatility and creative potential. Without the high cost of mined stones. Designers can explore bolder carat sizes, unique cuts, and more intricate settings. Offering customers exceptional craftsmanship at a more accessible price point. Whether you favour minimalist solitaires, vintage inspire styles, or modern geometric designs, lab diamonds provide endless possibilities without compromising on quality or brilliance.
Conclusion
Lab grown diamonds represent a brilliant shift in the world of fine jewellery. Offering the same beauty, durability, and sparkle as natural stones, but with greater transparency, sustainability, and value. Whether you're drawn to them for ethical reasons, environmental simply to get more brilliance for your budget. Lab grown diamonds make a smart and meaningful choice.
As technology advances and preferences evolve, lab grown stones are no longer seen as an alternative, but as a new standard for modern luxury. From timeless engagement rings to fashion-forward pieces, they allow you to wear your values without sacrificing elegance or quality.
Customise & Design Your Dream Lab Grown Diamond Jewellery
Crafting your perfect ring begins with personalisation. When you customise a lab grown diamond ring, you’re not just choosing a style you’re creating a meaningful piece that reflects your personality, values, and love story. Start with selecting the shape of your lab grown diamond from classic round to elegant oval or vintage-inspired emerald. Choose your ideal carat weight, clarity and colour to match your vision. Next, pick the metal for your band: timeless platinum, soft rose gold, or bright white gold
Start Design NowFAQS
1. Are lab grown diamonds real diamonds?
Yes, absolutely. They are real diamonds they have the same chemical, physical, and optical properties as natural diamonds. The only difference is their origin: they are create in a laboratory rather than form on Earth.
2. Will a lab grown diamond pass a diamond tester?
Yes. Lab grown diamonds have the same heat and electrical conductivity as natural diamonds and will pass standard diamond testers.
3. How are lab grown diamonds made?
Lab grown diamonds are produce using two main methods: HPHT (High Pressure, High Temperature) and CVD (Chemical Vapour Deposition). Both processes recreate the conditions under which natural diamonds are form, but in a controlled laboratory environment.
4. Are lab grown diamonds more affordable?
Yes. Lab diamonds typically cost 30–50% less than mined diamonds of the same quality, allowing you to choose a larger or higher-grade stone within your budget.
5. Do lab grown diamonds look different from natural diamonds?
No. Visually, lab diamonds are identical to natural diamonds. Even experienced jewellers and gemmologists need specialised equipment to tell them apart.
