Are lab-grown diamonds real diamonds?
(1) Same Composition
- Both are made of pure carbon (C) in a crystalline structure.
- No chemical difference—even gemologists need specialized equipment to tell them apart.
(2) Identical Properties
- Hardness: 10/10 on the Mohs scale (just like natural diamonds).
- Refractive index: 2.42 (same sparkle and brilliance).
- Durability: Equally scratch-resistant and suitable for daily wear.
(3) Formation method
Laboratory-grown diamonds are formed in a laboratory that simulates the environment of the earth's crust, whereas natural diamonds are formed naturally deep in the earth's crust.
2. How are diamonds cultivated in laboratories?
There are currently two main techniques:
(1) HPHT (high temperature, high pressure method)
- Simulates the environment deep in the earth's crust (~1400°C, 50-60,000 atmospheres). Suitable for growing large carats, but may have slight metallic inclusions.
- Suitable for cultivating large carat diamonds, but may carry slight metallic inclusions.
(2) CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition)
- In a vacuum environment, carbon-containing gases (e.g. methane) are allowed to be deposited on diamond crystal seeds.
- Higher purity, suitable for cultivating high clarity, colorless diamonds.
Cultivation cycle: only a few weeks to a few months, compared to millions of years for natural diamonds.
3. Advantages of laboratory-grown diamonds：
- Lower prices: 30-50% cheaper than natural diamonds, can be bought in larger carats.
- Environmentally friendly & conflict-free: no mining damage, no ethical issues with “blood diamonds”.
- Better quality: clarity and color are usually higher (lab controlled environment).
4. How to identify a lab-grown diamond?
- Certificates: GIA, IGI, etc. will label them “Lab-Grown”.
- Laser engraving: Most cultivated diamonds have “LG” or “Lab Created” engraved on the girdle.
- Professional Inspection: Spectrometer or UV fluorescent light is required (ordinary diamond detector pens cannot tell the difference).
Conclusion: Lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds!
They have exactly the same physical and optical properties as natural diamonds, only the formation process is different. Lab-grown diamonds are an excellent choice if you value cost-effectiveness, environmental protection and quality.
Still on the fence? Feel free to inquire for more information!
