Diamonds have always been celebrated for their timeless sparkle, but a new player in the jewellery world is stealing the spotlight – lab grown diamonds. Far from being mere imitations, these stones are true diamonds, created using state-of-the-art technology that mirrors the natural formation process. With their ethical origins, remarkable beauty, and attractive price point, lab grown diamonds are becoming the go-to choice for modern buyers.

What Are Lab Grown Diamonds?

In simple terms, lab grown diamonds are chemically, physically, and optically identical to natural mined diamonds. The only difference lies in how they’re formed. While natural diamonds are created deep within the Earth over millions of years, lab grown diamonds are cultivated in a controlled environment by scientists.

Using advanced technology, laboratories replicate the same natural conditions found in the Earth’s mantle – heat, pressure, and carbon – resulting in diamonds that are identical in composition to those mined from the ground. Both share the same carbon lattice structure, meaning there is no difference in their durability or brilliance.

How Are Lab Grown Diamonds Made?

Lab grown diamonds start life as tiny diamond “seeds”, which are fragments of pre-existing diamonds. There are two primary methods for creating them:

1. High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT)

This process simulates the extreme conditions under which diamonds form naturally.

A diamond seed is placed in a pressurised chamber and subjected to intense heat of over 2,000°C and pressure of around 1.5 million pounds per square inch.

Carbon atoms bond with the seed, crystallising over time to form a rough diamond.

2. Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD)

A thin slice of diamond seed is placed in a vacuum chamber filled with a carbon-rich gas, usually methane mixed with hydrogen.

The gas is heated until its molecules break apart, causing carbon atoms to settle onto the seed and build up in layers.

Some CVD diamonds undergo additional heat and pressure treatment to improve clarity.

Both HPHT and CVD methods result in real diamonds, indistinguishable from mined diamonds to the naked eye. Only experts with specialised equipment can detect subtle differences in growth patterns.

Do Lab Grown Diamonds Look the Same as Natural Diamonds?

Yes. Lab grown diamonds are visually identical to mined diamonds because they share the same chemical and physical properties. To the naked eye, there’s no way to tell them apart – even a trained jeweller often needs advanced equipment to make the distinction.

Do Lab Grown Diamonds Come with Certification?

Absolutely. At The Diamond Store, all lab grown solitaire diamonds of 0.25 carats or above are accompanied by a diamond grading certificate from a trusted, independent gemmological laboratory, just like natural diamonds.

For example, our larger lab grown solitaires are often certified by the International Gemmological Institute (IGI). You can view the specific certification details for any jewellery piece by clicking on the Product Specifications tab on our website.

Do Lab Grown Diamonds Vary in Quality?

Yes. Just like mined diamonds, lab grown diamonds can have natural variations in colour and clarity, including tiny imperfections known as inclusions. These factors determine their grading and, consequently, their price.

At The Diamond Store, every lab grown diamond is hand-selected by our gemmologists to ensure only the highest quality stones are offered.

Are Lab Grown Diamonds More Affordable?

Yes, they are significantly better value. While lab grown diamonds require a complex and costly production process, they do not involve the mining and rarity associated with natural diamonds. As a result, you can expect up to 50% more diamond for the same budget, allowing you to choose a larger or higher-quality stone without compromising on beauty.

Are Lab Grown Diamonds “Fake”?

Not at all. Lab grown diamonds are genuine diamonds, unlike alternatives such as cubic zirconia or moissanite, which are made from entirely different materials. For instance, cubic zirconia is composed of zirconium dioxide and is easily distinguishable from real diamonds due to its different brilliance and weight.

Are Lab Grown Diamonds Ethical and Sustainable?

Yes, this is one of their greatest benefits.

They are environmentally friendly, as they don’t involve large-scale mining or harm to natural landscapes.

They are guaranteed conflict-free, meaning they aren’t linked to unethical practices or regions of conflict.

Their creation helps preserve natural resources for future generations.

Should You Choose a Lab Grown Diamond?

Choosing between a natural or lab grown diamond is entirely a matter of personal preference. Both offer timeless beauty and durability. If you’re looking for a diamond that delivers outstanding quality, value, and ethical assurance, a lab grown diamond is an excellent choice.

What the Experts Say

A recent Channel 4 programme explored the rise of lab grown diamonds, noting that they’re now widely available through major retailers such as The Diamond Store. The programme’s diamond expert confirmed that lab grown and mined diamonds are identical, adding that with lab grown diamonds, “you’re looking at saving up to about 50%.”

Final Thoughts

Lab grown diamonds are redefining the jewellery market, offering a perfect blend of beauty, value, and sustainability. Whether you’re celebrating a special moment or simply indulging in timeless sparkle, a lab grown diamond could be the ideal choice for you.