To the look, touch, and on the chemical level, lab grown diamonds are almost identical to naturally mined diamonds.

Yes. Lab grown diamonds are as strong and hard as naturally mined diamonds. Both are rated at a 10 on Mohs Scale of Hardness. Studies also show that lab grown diamonds are up to 10x more durable than natural diamonds.

Even for an experienced jeweler or certified gemologist, the distinguishing factors between lab grown and natural diamonds are almost impossible to see with the naked eye. With the proper equipment, the trained eye can notice the small differences between the two kinds of diamond.

Yes. lab diamonds are made from pure crystalized carbon and will pass any test to show for it.

Yes. Lab diamonds carry the same shine and sparkle, as well as the same color and clarity as mined diamonds. The only difference is the origin.

The cost, like any diamond, can fluctuate, but on average, a 1 carat lab grown diamond will cost between $1,000 and $2,000 - depending on its grade.

Lab diamonds are graded on the same scale of cut, clarity, color, and carat weight (The 4 C’s of diamonds). The GIA does certify lab grown diamonds, but because they are relatively new in the industry, there aren’t an abundance of certified lab diamonds, like there are natural diamonds. IGI lab diamond certification is a good alternative. They give specific grades for color and clarity that are easier to find.

Cubic zirconia is also lab-made, but doesn’t meet the qualifications to be considered a diamond. The main factor being a lack of carbon in zirconia.

There are two methods currently used to produce lab grown diamonds… First is HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature) → This process mimics the extreme heat and crushing pressure needed for diamonds to form within the Earth’s crust. Secondly, CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition) → A seed crystal is placed in a chamber, flooded with hydrogen and methane gas, then microwave heating is used to activate the gasses, causing the diamond particles to grow and stick to the seed.

Some people believe that lab grown diamonds aren’t worthy of going in an engagement ring. However, with no discernable differences in the visual, chemical, and physical properties between the two, more people are considering lab grown diamonds for a myriad of pieces. They are also guaranteed cruelty-free and are sold at a fraction of the price of a natural diamond, which are big draws to lab diamonds.

The easiest way to avoid unethically mined diamonds is by going with a lab grown diamond. Yes, there are ways to ensure the naturally mined diamond you buy is conflict-free. If you can trace the diamond’s origins through any subsidiaries, parent companies, and back to the mine (or at least the part of the world it came from), you will have a good idea of the conditions the stone was mined in. Another option would be to shop for a second-hand diamond.

Think of this, simply, as another service offered by your lab grown diamond provider. Colored diamonds are among the most expensive and rarest gemstones on the market. Specifically, pink diamonds are always in high demand, but finding the exact right color, clarity, cut, and size for an engagement ring (or other piece) can be very challenging, and will be expensive. Finding that perfect stone will be a whole lot easier if you go with a lab grown diamond that can be made to fit every single requirement you might have.

1 carat lab diamond takes 7-10 days. A 3 carat stone can take up to a month. Attempting to speed up this process leads to fracturing within the crystal.

The color and clarity range for lab grown diamonds is similar to that of natural diamonds. The variation observed in natural diamonds related to the 4 C’s is also seen in lab diamonds. Because of this, still be careful when making a purchase, and be sure to check all possible specifications for the stone.

Yes. You will be able to get an appraisal done, as well as listing it for insurance purposes.

No. Lab-created diamonds do not fade, discolor, or cloud over time.

Short answer: all around the globe. There are a few prominent locations where lab diamonds are made: Russia, United States, France, Germany, United Kingdom, Ukraine, India, Singapore, Japan, and Belgium.

Since lab grown diamonds are relatively new to the market, it isn’t really certain whether or not they will have resale value. You should view a lab grown diamond purchase as more of a gift, than an investment.

You will not be able to tell a difference between the two, with the naked eye. Both methods can create a beautiful, sparkling diamond that is chemically, optically, and physically identical to any Earth-grown diamonds on the market. Most diamond grading reports will specify the process in which your diamond was created.

Natural diamond prices increase exponentially when a larger weight is combined with a high quality cut, color, and clarity. These properties increase a stone’s rarity. There is no rarity in lab grown diamonds as more can always be made to meet demand. They are also of vastly more consistent quality, due to the precise measurements and cutting-edge technology used, so ther is less variation in the stones offered by lab grown sellers.

Lab grown diamonds make the incredible sparkle of a diamond available to more people, more often. They are perfect to wear every day or to buy as a birthday or anniversary gift. Because they are manufactured to a consistent high quality, you can be confident about making a purchase online. Also, due to the lower price point, lab grown diamonds are more accessible to younger people, people in lower tax brackets, and are appealing to people going through a second (or third) marriage, who have already gone through the process of finding that perfect natural diamond.