Are Lab Diamonds Real? The Complete Guide to Lab-Grown Diamonds
Yes, lab diamonds are real diamonds. They have the same chemical composition, crystal structure, hardness, and brilliance as natural diamonds. The only difference is where they are formed. Natural diamonds grow deep within the earth over billions of years, while lab diamonds are created in controlled laboratory environments using advanced technology.
Lab diamonds are not fake diamonds, cubic zirconia, or diamond simulants. They are genuine diamonds made of carbon and can be graded and certified by gemological laboratories just like natural diamonds.
If you are exploring modern diamond options, you can explore our Lab Diamond collection to see a variety of certified stones and designs.
What Are Lab Diamonds?
Lab diamonds, also known as lab-grown diamonds or synthetic diamonds, are diamonds created in laboratories using scientific processes that replicate the natural diamond formation process.
These diamonds have the same:
• hardness (10 on Mohs scale)
• sparkle and brilliance
• durability
• crystal structure
Because they are physically and chemically identical, they are considered real diamonds.
Many modern couples now choose lab diamonds because they provide excellent value while maintaining the same beauty as mined diamonds.
If you prefer selecting your own center stone, you can browse our Loose Stones collection and customize your ring.
How Lab Diamonds Are Made
Lab diamonds are created using two main technologies.
HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature)
This process mimics the natural conditions deep within the earth where diamonds form.
Carbon is exposed to extreme heat and pressure, allowing it to crystallize into a diamond structure.
CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition)
In this process:
- A diamond seed is placed inside a chamber
- Carbon-rich gas is introduced
- Carbon atoms attach to the seed layer by layer
Over several weeks, a diamond crystal grows.
Both methods produce real diamonds with identical properties to natural diamonds.
Lab Diamonds vs Natural Diamonds
| Feature | Lab Diamonds | Natural Diamonds |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Created in lab | Formed underground |
| Time to create | Few weeks | Billions of years |
| Composition | Carbon | Carbon |
| Appearance | Identical | Identical |
| Durability | Same hardness | Same hardness |
| Price | More affordable | Higher price |
Visually, even experts cannot tell the difference without specialized equipment.
If you're shopping for engagement rings, you can explore our Engagement Rings collection featuring lab diamond options.
Do Lab Diamonds Pass Diamond Testers?
Yes. Lab diamonds pass standard diamond testers because they share the same thermal conductivity as natural diamonds.
Most handheld diamond testers cannot distinguish between natural and lab diamonds.
Only advanced laboratory machines can identify whether a diamond was formed naturally or grown in a lab.
To learn more about this topic, read our detailed guide on Do Lab Diamonds Pass Diamond Testers.
Why Are Lab Diamonds Cheaper?
Lab diamonds are typically 60–80% more affordable than natural diamonds.
This price difference exists because:
• they do not require mining
• supply chains are shorter
• production is more controlled
This allows buyers to choose larger or higher-quality diamonds within the same budget.
For example, many couples can purchase a larger center stone or higher clarity diamond when choosing lab-grown options.
You can see available options in our Loose Stones collection if you're designing a custom ring.
Do Lab Diamonds Lose Sparkle?
No. Lab diamonds do not lose sparkle or brilliance over time.
Sparkle depends mainly on the cut quality of the diamond, not whether it is lab-grown or natural.
A well-cut diamond reflects light beautifully and maintains its brilliance permanently.
If you want maximum sparkle, explore our Lab Diamond collection where stones are carefully selected for brilliance and cut quality.
Are Lab Diamonds Worth Buying?
For many buyers, lab diamonds offer excellent value.
Advantages include:
• larger diamonds for the same budget
• identical sparkle and durability
• certified grading (IGI / GIA)
• modern sourcing methods
This combination makes them a popular choice for engagement rings and fine jewelry.
If you want to design your own ring, you can also try our Ring Builder and create a custom piece using your preferred diamond shape.
FAQs
Are lab diamonds fake?
No. Lab diamonds are real diamonds made of carbon with the same structure as natural diamonds.
Can jewelers tell the difference?
Usually only with specialized equipment.
Do lab diamonds last forever?
Yes. They are as durable as natural diamonds.
Do lab diamonds get cloudy?
No. Like natural diamonds, they maintain their clarity permanently.