What's the deal with Lab Grown Diamonds?

Dec 8, 2024

I hear it all the time..."How do you feel about lab grown diamonds?" Often, I sense a little reluctance and sheepishness from the customer asking the question. Without missing a beat, I respond with an emphatic - "I love them!"

There seems to be a lot of confusion out there about lab grown diamonds and I'm here to give you this jeweler's take on them. Below are a few answers to commonly asked questions and a summary of my feelings as a jeweler who works with and embraces the lab grown diamond movement. First things first.

Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Real Diamonds?

Yes! Lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds. The only difference between them and mined diamonds is their origin. Both lab-grown and mined diamonds share the same chemical composition (pure carbon), crystal structure, and physical properties. Lab-grown diamonds are graded using the same criteria as mined diamonds, known as the 4 Cs (Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat weight). They are indistinguishable from natural diamonds to the naked eye or even under a microscope.

Can You Tell the Difference Between a Lab-Grown Diamond and a Mined Diamond?

Physically, it’s nearly impossible to tell the difference between a lab-grown diamond and a mined diamond without specialized equipment. Lab-grown diamonds have the same sparkle, durability, and appearance as natural diamonds. However, highly trained professionals can sometimes detect subtle differences by examining the diamond under a microscope, looking for growth patterns and inclusions that are unique to lab-grown diamonds.

Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Less Expensive Than Mined Diamonds?

Yes, lab-grown diamonds are generally more affordable than their mined counterparts. The process of creating a diamond in a laboratory is more cost-effective compared to the expensive and labor-intensive process of mining diamonds.

And finally, here's why I (the jeweler) love working with lab grown diamonds

They have opened up the door for my clients to have more choice in getting the diamond they really want. More size options, better color, and clarity are all on the table. As a designer, it's freeing to be able to create with fewer restrictions and offer amazing creations at more attainable price points. It's truly a pleasure to be able to deliver dream rings to my clients without having to settle for less.