Lab Grown Diamonds FAQs
What are lab diamonds?
Lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds with the same chemical, physical, and optical properties as mined diamonds. The only difference is how they are formed. Natural diamonds grow underground over millions of years, while lab diamonds are created in advanced laboratories in a matter of weeks. Because they are chemically identical, even trained jewelers cannot distinguish a lab diamond from a natural diamond without specialized equipment. Lab diamonds are also known as lab-grown diamonds, lab-created diamonds, man-made diamonds, manufactured diamonds, or LGDs. Learn more in our detailed comparison of lab vs natural diamonds.
CVD vs HPHT: How are lab grown diamonds made?
Lab-grown diamonds are created using two primary methods: HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature) and CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition). HPHT mimics the natural conditions under which diamonds form deep within the Earth. CVD diamonds grow from a diamond seed placed in a chamber filled with carbon-rich gas, where carbon atoms bond layer by layer. Both methods produce real, high-quality diamonds. Today, CVD diamonds are more common because they allow greater control over diamond quality and are generally more cost-efficient.
Do lab grown diamonds get cloudy or change color over time?
No, lab-grown diamonds do not get cloudy or change color over time. Because they are real diamonds made of pure carbon, they have the same durability and stability as natural diamonds. With proper care and cleaning, a lab-grown diamond will look just as brilliant decades from now as it does today.
How much does a 2-carat lab grown diamond cost?
A 2-carat lab-grown diamond typically costs between $2,000 and $6,000 depending on cut, color, clarity, and shape. This is often 60–70% less than a comparable natural diamond. You can view current pricing and available options by browsing our curated selection of 2-carat lab-grown diamonds.
Are lab diamonds certified by GIA or IGI?
Yes, lab-grown diamonds are certified by respected gemological laboratories, most commonly IGI (International Gemological Institute) and sometimes GIA (Gemological Institute of America). IGI is currently the industry leader in grading lab-grown diamonds and provides detailed reports covering the 4Cs, growth method (CVD or HPHT), and any post-growth treatments.
How are lab grown diamonds graded?
Lab-grown diamonds are graded using the same 4Cs—cut, color, clarity, and carat weight—as natural diamonds. Independent grading labs such as IGI and GIA apply the same standards to ensure accuracy and transparency. For a deeper explanation, read our complete Lab Grown Diamond Grading Report Guide.
Are lab diamonds more ethical or sustainable than mined diamonds?
Lab-grown diamonds are considered a more ethical and environmentally responsible choice by many buyers. They are conflict-free and avoid the environmental disruption associated with traditional mining. While energy use varies by producer, lab diamonds generally have a lower overall carbon footprint and are a popular option for shoppers seeking eco-friendly diamond alternatives.
Can a jeweler tell the difference between a lab diamond and a natural diamond?
No, a jeweler cannot reliably tell the difference between a lab-grown diamond and a natural diamond with the naked eye or basic tools. Specialized laboratory equipment is required to identify growth patterns or trace elements that reveal a diamond’s origin.
Are lab-created diamonds flawless?
Not always. Lab-grown diamonds can have inclusions just like natural diamonds and are graded on the same clarity scale, from Flawless (FL) to Included (I). Because the growth process is controlled, higher-clarity options are often more readily available. You can explore clarity grades across thousands of lab diamonds on our lab-grown diamond page.
What does it mean if my lab-grown diamond is treated?
Some CVD-grown lab diamonds receive post-growth treatment to improve color by removing a slight brown or gray tint. This treatment is permanent, stable, and does not affect the diamond’s durability or brilliance. Treated lab diamonds can be cleaned ultrasonically and safely worked on by jewelers without issue.
What is the difference between lab diamonds and moissanite?
Lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds made of carbon, while moissanite is a diamond simulant made from silicon carbide. Although moissanite looks similar, it has different optical properties and displays more rainbow-like flashes. Lab diamonds have the same brilliance, hardness, and fire as natural diamonds, making them visually and structurally identical.
Are lab-grown diamonds a good investment?
No. Like most gemstones, lab-grown diamonds should not be viewed as an investment. Their primary value lies in allowing buyers to purchase a larger or higher-quality diamond for significantly less money. Lab diamonds are best chosen for beauty, value, and personal meaning rather than resale potential.































