What Are Lab-Grown Diamonds?

Lab-grown diamonds, also known as lab-made diamonds, synthetic diamonds and synthetic diamonds, are real diamonds with the same chemical, physical and optical properties as earth-grown diamonds. When placed side by side, you won't be able to tell the difference. The only difference between the two is their origin.

Can you tell which diamond was grown in a lab and which was grown on Earth?

The diamond on the left was grown on Earth, and the diamond on the right was grown in a lab!

Lab-grown diamonds will be tested as diamonds using a diamond detector - they are different from diamond imitators, such as cubic zirconia or mossan. Like earth-made diamonds, laboratory-made diamonds have a Mohs hardness of 10. They are also as durable as natural diamonds. Lab-made diamonds can even come in a variety of colors, such as pink, yellow and blue.

Even gemologists can't tell the difference between lab-grown diamonds and natural diamonds. However, most lab-made diamonds will have inscriptions on their waistlines indicating that they were lab-made and can be seen through a magnifying glass. If there is no inscription, the diamond can be sent to a laboratory to determine whether it was grown in a laboratory using advanced technology or from Earth.

What's the difference between laboratory-grown diamonds and earth-grown diamonds?

The main difference between lab-grown diamonds and earth-grown diamonds is where they come from -- earth-grown diamonds are formed beneath the earth's surface, while lab-grown diamonds are grown above ground in a laboratory environment.

Another difference between the two is that earth-grown diamonds are 3 billion years old, while lab-grown diamonds take just six to 10 weeks to grow, depending on their size.

Laboratory-made diamonds cost 30% to 50% less than natural diamonds. This competitive price makes them attractive to many people.

Are the grades of laboratory-made diamonds different?

Lab-made diamonds are graded 4C so you will know the exact colour, cut, carat and clarity grade of the diamond.

Can you insure diamonds made in the laboratory?

Yes, laboratory-made diamonds can be insured. Laboratory-grown diamonds typically cost less to insure than earth-grown diamonds because they are less valuable.