Lab-grown
Diamonds are grown from a seed using high pressure and high temperature (HPHT), or chemical vapor deposition (CVD). These processes create diamond crystals that are then cut and polished.
Lab vs. Mined Diamonds
Both are diamonds. The difference begins with where they grow.
Explore lab-grown and mined diamonds side by side, then choose the origin, qualities, and price that feel right for you.
| What matters | Lab-grown diamonds | Mined diamonds |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Grown using technology in a controlled environment. | Formed naturally in the Earth and recovered through mining. |
| What they are | Crystalline carbon with essentially the same chemical, physical, and optical properties as natural diamond. | Natural crystalline carbon. |
| Appearance | Beauty depends on the individual stone’s cut, color, clarity, and proportions. | The same qualities matter. Origin alone does not determine sparkle. |
| Everyday wear | Diamond hardness: 10 on the Mohs scale. Resistant to scratches, but can chip. | The same hardness and need for careful wear and maintenance. |
| Price | Generally lower than a mined diamond with comparable listed characteristics. | Generally higher than a comparable lab-grown diamond. Rarity also influences price. |
| Why choose it? | You may prefer more flexibility in size or quality within your budget. | You may value natural origin and geological history. |
Learn more: GIA: natural and laboratory-grown diamonds
Two origins. The same diamond material.
Mined, or natural
Natural diamonds formed deep within the Earth under intense heat and pressure, typically billions of years ago. They are recovered from deposits, then cut and polished.
Learn more: GIA: diamond origins and simulants
Read the report for the stone you choose.
Look for the stated origin, measurements, weight, and any treatment disclosures. Verify the report number with the issuing laboratory. Report formats differ by laboratory and date.
IGI’s lab-grown reports include individual 4Cs assessments. GIA’s current service for colorless to near-colorless lab-grown diamonds uses an overall Premium or Standard assessment. Older reports may use a different format.
Learn more: IGI: lab-grown diamond reports
Learn more: GIA: current laboratory-grown diamond services
Common questions
Are lab-grown diamonds real diamonds?
Yes. Lab-grown diamonds are diamond, rather than an imitation such as cubic zirconia or moissanite. Their laboratory-grown origin should always be disclosed. GIA explains the distinction.
Can you tell the difference by looking?
You cannot reliably identify origin with the naked eye. Gemological laboratories use specialized testing to distinguish natural and lab-grown diamonds. About diamond identification.
Do lab-grown diamonds lose their sparkle?
Normal wear does not make a lab-grown diamond stop being diamond. Oil and dirt can dull the appearance of either type. Regular cleaning and setting inspections help keep your ring looking its best. Diamond care guidance.
Is one always the more sustainable choice?
We would not make that claim from origin alone. Ask for specific sourcing and environmental evidence about the diamond you are considering. Broad claims such as “eco-friendly” need substantiation. About environmental claims.
Which should I choose?
Start with what matters to you: natural origin, appearance, size, or budget. Compare individual diamonds and their reports. Our concierge can help you weigh the options without assuming one choice is right for everyone.
Back to Diamond Education: the 4Cs, shapes, and care
A little guidance, a confident choice.
Tell us what matters most: your budget, preferred look, or a particular diamond. We can help you compare your options.