Lab-Grown vs Natural Diamonds
Understanding the differences and similarities between lab-grown and natural diamonds
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Attribute | Lab-Grown Diamonds | Natural Diamonds |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical Composition | 100% Carbon (C) | 100% Carbon (C) |
| Crystal Structure | Cubic (Diamond) | Cubic (Diamond) |
| Hardness (Mohs Scale) | 10 | 10 |
| Optical Properties | Identical | Identical |
| Creation Time | 6-10 weeks | 1-3 billion years |
| Environmental Impact | Minimal | Significant mining impact |
| Price | 30-40% less | Higher cost |
| Certification | IGI, GIA | IGI, GIA |
Key Takeaways
Physically Identical
Lab-grown diamonds have the same chemical composition, crystal structure, and optical properties as natural diamonds. Even gemologists need specialized equipment to tell them apart.
Better Value
Lab-grown diamonds cost 30-40% less than natural diamonds of comparable quality, allowing you to get a larger or higher-quality stone for your budget.
Eco-Friendly
Lab-grown diamonds have a significantly smaller environmental footprint, requiring no mining and using renewable energy in production.
Certified Quality
All our lab-grown diamonds are certified by the same prestigious institutions (IGI, GIA) that grade natural diamonds.
How Lab-Grown Diamonds Are Made
CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition)
A diamond seed is placed in a chamber filled with carbon-rich gas. When heated to extreme temperatures, carbon atoms bond to the seed, growing the diamond layer by layer.
HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature)
This method mimics the natural diamond formation process by subjecting carbon to extreme pressure (1.5 million pounds per square inch) and heat (1,500°C).