Are Lab Grown Diamonds Real Diamonds? An Expert Guide to Lab Grown Rings

Lab grown diamonds have seen a huge rise in popularity in recent years, with more couples than ever considering them for engagement rings. But as diamond experts, we get one question that comes up time and time again: are lab grown diamonds real?

The short (and definite!) answer is yes - they are real diamonds. Understanding why they’re real, they’re value, and how they’re created, is key to deciding whether they’re right for you - or for your partner - especially if you’re choosing an engagement ring.

In this guide, our jewellery experts will explain everything you need to know, including how lab grown diamonds are made, how they compare to natural diamonds, and what to consider when choosing your ring.

Are Lab Grown Diamonds Real?

Yes - lab grown diamonds are 100% real diamonds.

They have the same chemical, physical, and optical properties as natural diamonds. This means they:

• Are made of pure carbon

• Have the same hardness (10 on the Mohs scale)

• Display the same brilliance, sparkle, and fire

• Can be graded using the exact same 4Cs (cut, colour, clarity, and carat)

Even experienced jewellers cannot tell the difference between lab grown and natural diamonds without specialised equipment. The only real difference is how they are formed.

How Are Lab Grown Diamonds Made?

 

If you’ve ever wondered how lab grown diamonds are made, the process is fascinating!

Scientists recreate the natural conditions that form diamonds deep within the Earth - but in a controlled environment.

There are two main methods used:

High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT)

This method replicates the natural formation of diamonds underground. A small diamond seed is placed into carbon and subjected to:

• Extremely high pressure

• Very high temperatures

Over time, the carbon bonds to the seed and forms a larger diamond crystal.

Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD)

CVD is a more modern method and widely used today. It involves:

• Placing a diamond seed in a sealed chamber

• Filling the chamber with carbon-rich gas

• Heating it to create plasma

The carbon atoms then gradually build up layer by layer, forming a diamond.

Both methods result in diamonds that are indistinguishable from natural stones in appearance and structure.

Lab Grown vs Natural Diamonds: What’s the Difference?

While lab grown diamonds are real, there are still some key differences to be aware of:

Origin

• Natural diamonds form over billions of years beneath the Earth’s surface

• Lab grown diamonds are created in a matter of weeks in a laboratory
  

Are Lab Grown Diamonds a Good Choice for Engagement Rings?

For many couples, lab grown diamonds are an excellent option.

They’re particularly appealing if you want a larger diamond for your budget,  or you’re concerned about ethical and environmental impacts. However, it’s important to note that you can source ethical natural diamonds from certified jewellers. 

At Wedstones, all of our natural diamonds are sourced via ‘The Kimberley Process’. The Kimberley Process (KP) is an international initiative established in 2003 to address the issue of conflict diamonds, also known as blood diamonds.

However, natural diamonds still appeal to those who value rarity, tradition, long-term value, and the idea of a stone formed over millions of years.