Are Lab Grown Diamonds Real?
Updated 10 August 2026 · 3 min read
Yes — lab grown diamonds are real diamonds. They have exactly the same chemical composition, crystal structure, hardness and optical properties as mined diamonds. The only difference is origin: they are grown in a lab in weeks instead of forming underground over millions of years.
How they are made
Lab grown diamonds are created using one of two methods: HPHT (high pressure, high temperature), which mimics the conditions deep in the earth, or CVD (chemical vapour deposition), which builds the diamond up from carbon-rich gas. Both produce genuine diamond crystals — pure carbon in the same structure as a mined stone.
How they are graded
Because they are real diamonds, lab grown stones are graded on the same 4Cs — cut, colour, clarity and carat — by the same independent laboratories, including IGI. A lab grown diamond can be as colourless and eye-clean as a top mined diamond, and its certificate reports the same measurements.
Why they cost less
Lab grown diamonds typically cost significantly less than mined diamonds of comparable quality — not because they are lower quality, but because the supply chain is shorter and does not rely on mining. That means you can choose a larger or higher-grade stone for the same budget.
Are they ethical?
Lab grown diamonds are conflict-free and avoid the environmental and social impact associated with diamond mining. For many buyers this is a core reason to choose them — a genuine diamond, without the mining.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are lab grown diamonds the same as cubic zirconia?
No. Cubic zirconia is a diamond simulant made of a different material. A lab grown diamond is a real diamond — identical in chemistry and hardness to a mined one.
Do lab grown diamonds pass a diamond tester?
Yes — because they are real diamonds, they test as diamond. Specialised equipment is needed to distinguish lab grown from mined.
Do lab grown diamonds hold value?
They are bought primarily to be worn and enjoyed. Like most jewellery, they should be seen as a purchase to treasure rather than a financial investment.
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