A lab-grown diamond is a diamond grown in a laboratory. It is chemically, physically and optically the same material as a mined natural diamond: pure carbon crystallized into a diamond structure. There are two differences: origin and price. A lab-grown diamond is grown in a few weeks, while a natural diamond has formed deep within the earth over as much as billions of years. That is why a lab-grown diamond costs considerably less.
This article explains what a lab-grown diamond is, how it is made, how it differs from a natural diamond, and who lab-grown diamond jewelry is suited for.
What Is a Lab-Grown Diamond?
A lab-grown diamond (also called a laboratory-grown diamond or synthetic diamond) is a diamond grown in a laboratory under controlled conditions. It should not be confused with imitations such as cubic zirconia or moissanite, which are different materials. A lab-grown diamond is the same material as a natural diamond.
Lab-grown diamonds have been produced since the 1950s, but stones of high enough quality for jewelry have only become available as the technology has advanced. In recent years they have become much more common in jewelry, including in Finland.
How Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Made?
Lab-grown diamonds are made mainly using two methods:
• CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition): new diamond is grown layer by layer from a carbon-rich gas onto a small diamond seed.
• HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature): this method replicates the conditions under which diamonds form in nature.
Both methods produce a rough diamond, which is cut and polished in the same way as a natural diamond. Growing takes weeks, whereas a diamond takes billions of years to form in nature.
Lab-Grown Diamond vs Natural Diamond: Comparison
| Property | Lab-grown diamond | Natural diamond |
|---|---|---|
| Composition | Pure carbon, diamond structure |
Pure carbon, diamond structure |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 10 | 10 |
| Appearance, brilliance and fire | The same | The same |
| Origin | Grown in a laboratory | Formed deep within the earth |
| Price | Considerably more affordable | Considerably more expensive |
| Rarity | Not rare | Limited natural resource |
| Resale value | Generally low | Better, but varies |
Lab-grown diamonds and natural diamonds have the same properties. The difference lies not in quality but in origin, and it shows above all in the price.
Can You Tell the Difference with the Naked Eye?
No, you can't. Even an experienced gemologist cannot distinguish a lab-grown diamond from a natural diamond by eye alone. The difference can only be confirmed with certainty in a gemological laboratory, where, for example, the stone's strain patterns, trace elements and fluorescence are examined.
For this reason, a trustworthy seller always states openly whether a stone is lab-grown or natural. A lab-grown diamond is not a "fake diamond", but the buyer has the right to know what they are buying.
Durability and Everyday Wear
A lab-grown diamond is just as hard as a natural diamond: it scores 10 on the Mohs scale, the highest possible rating. It is suitable for daily wear in all types of jewelry. However, hardness does not mean a diamond is unbreakable: a sharp blow can chip the edge of the stone, so remove your ring during heavy work.
Lab-Grown Diamond Price
A lab-grown diamond is more affordable because it is quicker to produce and the production volume can be adjusted. The price difference compared with a natural diamond is usually significant, and it allows for a larger or higher-quality stone on the same budget.
Our silver lab-grown diamond jewelry costs from around €30 to €200, depending on the type of jewelry and the size of the stone.
Please note that the resale value of a lab-grown diamond is generally considerably lower than that of a natural diamond. If you are buying jewelry as an investment, a lab-grown diamond is not the best choice, although the retention of value cannot be guaranteed with a natural diamond either. If you are buying jewelry to wear and enjoy, lab-grown diamond jewelry is a sensible and beautiful option.
Why Choose Silver for a Lab-Grown Diamond Setting?
The price of gold lab-grown diamond jewelry follows the price of gold. Silver is a more affordable metal, and its white tone enhances the brightness of the stone. Silver lab-grown diamond jewelry gives you the look of diamond jewelry on a much smaller budget than gold.
Our range includes rings, pendants and earrings with lab-grown diamonds from 0.04 to 1.00 carats.
Is a Lab-Grown Diamond Right for You?
A lab-grown diamond is an excellent choice for both everyday wear and special occasions. It suits the bride, the groom and wedding guests, and makes a meaningful gift for an engagement, wedding or anniversary.
Find Your Own Lab-Grown Diamond Jewelry
Our range includes silver lab-grown diamond rings, pendants and earrings in a variety of carat sizes. Browse our lab-grown diamond jewelry and choose yours. If you long for the atmosphere of past decades, take a look at our vintage jewelry too.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a lab-grown diamond a real diamond?
A lab-grown diamond has the same chemical composition, the same physical properties and the same appearance as a natural diamond, but it is grown in a laboratory.
Is a lab-grown diamond durable enough for everyday wear?
Yes, with normal use. It is just as hard as a natural diamond (Mohs 10), but a sharp blow can still chip the stone. The durability of a piece of jewelry also depends on the setting, how the stone is mounted, and how it is cared for.
Can you tell a lab-grown diamond from a natural diamond?
Not with the naked eye. The difference can only be confirmed with certainty in a laboratory using specialized equipment.
Why is a lab-grown diamond cheaper?
It is produced in a controlled process in just a few weeks, and it is not a limited natural resource. This is why its price is lower.
Is a lab-grown diamond piece worth buying?
Yes, if you want a beautiful diamond piece to wear at an affordable price. If you are thinking of it as an investment, the resale value is generally low.
