Lab Grown Diamonds Guide


Lab grown diamonds have quickly become one of the most popular choices in modern jewellery. They’re a stunning alternative to natural diamonds and offer the same brilliance, sparkle, and fire meaning they look virtually identical.So why are they so loved?Read our lab grown diamond buying guide to discover what makes these gemstones so special and why so many people are choosing them today.

What are lab created diamonds?

Lab created diamonds, also known as man-made or cultured diamonds, are produced in a laboratory using advanced technology that recreates the natural conditions in which diamonds form.Because they are made from the same carbon material and developed under similar pressure and heat, lab created diamonds are chemically, physically, and visually identical to natural diamonds.

Why Lab-Created Diamonds?

  • 1. Value

    Lab-created diamonds can cost up to 30% less than Earth-created diamonds. They’re a great choice if you’re working with a budget or want a larger diamond for the same price.

  • 2. Quality & Beauty

    Lab-created diamonds offer the same brilliance, sparkle, and overall beauty as Earth-created diamonds. In fact, they are visually and chemically identical to natural diamonds.

  • 3. Modern Choice

    Lab-created diamonds have quickly become a favourite in the jewellery world. Made using advanced laboratory technology, they provide a modern and innovative alternative to Earth-created diamonds.

    How are Lab Diamonds Made?

    Our lab-created diamonds are, as their name suggests - made in a laboratory. Each diamond starts its life as a tiny carbon seed. It is then exposed to extreme heat and pressure or entered into a deposition process (known as CVD), to mimic the process of natural diamond formation. It then grows within the laboratory, usually in six to ten weeks, and is cut and polished in the same way that Earth-Created Diamonds are.

    1
    Diamond Seed

    Diamond Seed

    A tiny carbon seed is placed in a specialized container to begin the diamond formation process.

    2
    Heat & Pressure Application

    Heat & Pressure Application

    Extreme heat and pressure are applied to the seed, mimicking natural diamond formation conditions.

    3
    The Diamond Starts to Grow

    The Diamond Starts to Grow

    Over six to ten weeks, the diamond grows layer by layer, forming its crystalline structure.

    4
    Diamond Is Ready

    Diamond Is Ready

    The fully grown diamond is cut and polished to perfection, ready to become a beautiful piece of jewellery.

    Are Lab-Created Diamonds Real?

    Yes, lab-created diamonds are real diamonds, just with a different origin. They have the same chemical and physical structure as natural diamonds, making them visually identical.

    In fact, they can’t be told apart by the naked eye, and only specialised equipment can identify the difference.

    Lab-Created Diamonds vs. Natural Diamonds

    Lab-created diamonds and natural diamonds are equally stunning. They are chemically and visually identical, making them impossible to tell apart with the naked eye.The main difference is simply their origin. Lab-created diamonds are grown in a laboratory using advanced technology, while natural diamonds are formed over time within the Earth’s mantle and mined from the ground.Although natural diamonds remain the traditional choice, lab-created diamonds can be up to 30% more affordable than a natural diamond of the same size and quality.

    How to Buy Lab-Grown Diamond Jewellery

    All of our diamond jewellery is available with beautiful lab-grown diamonds. When choosing your product, simply select “Lab-Created Diamonds” from the available options before adding it to your cart.Whether you’re shopping for a ring, necklace, bracelet, or earrings, selecting lab-created diamonds makes it easy to create a stunning piece of jewellery that’s perfect for you.

    Lab-Created Diamond Tips

    • Cut

      A diamond’s cut refers to its symmetry, polish, and overall proportions. Lab-grown diamonds are cut using the same methods as natural diamonds, but because they can be produced with more consistent shapes in a controlled environment, cutters are often able to create stones with fewer imperfections and a more precise, high-quality cut.

    • Clarity

      Natural diamonds often contain inclusions or imperfections that can affect their value. The clearest, most colourless diamonds are the most desirable because they produce the best sparkle. Lab-created diamonds are usually colourless or near-colourless, making them comparable to some of the highest-grade natural diamonds available.

    • Budget

      Lab-created diamonds are an excellent option if you want luxury on a budget. Since they are grown rather than mined, they can cost around 30% less than natural diamonds — meaning you can often get a larger or higher-quality diamond for the same price.

      Most-Loved Engagement Rings

      Lumière Pavé Ring

      Lumière Pavé Ring

      From $2,183
      Verdant Signet Ring

      Verdant Signet Ring

      From $5,577
      Monarch Signet Ring

      Monarch Signet Ring

      From $4,151
      Golden Tide Oval Ring

      Golden Tide Oval Ring

      From $3,219
      Monarch Slate Ring

      Monarch Slate Ring

      From $2,796
      Velvet Horizon Ring

      Velvet Horizon Ring

      From $2,796
      Sovereign Crest Ring

      Sovereign Crest Ring

      From $4,061
      Imperial Crest Ring

      Imperial Crest Ring

      From $3,138

      Lab Diamonds FAQ

      Are lab diamonds a good investment?

      Lab diamonds are a great choice for beauty and value, but they are not typically considered a long-term investment in the same way natural diamonds can be. They are best purchased for their sparkle, affordability, and modern appeal.

      Do lab diamonds test as real diamonds?

      Yes. Lab-created diamonds are real diamonds and will test as diamonds on standard diamond testers. Only specialised equipment can identify whether a diamond is lab-grown or Earth-created.

      Are lab diamonds flawless?

      Not always. Just like natural diamonds, lab diamonds can have inclusions and clarity differences. However, lab diamonds are often available in very high clarity grades.

      Are lab diamonds cheaper than Earth-Created Diamonds?

      Yes. Lab-created diamonds are usually up to 30% cheaper than Earth-created diamonds of the same size and quality

      Can you insure lab diamonds?

      Yes. Lab diamonds can be insured just like natural diamonds, and most insurance providers offer coverage as long as you have a valuation or certificate.