Lab Diamonds: Your FAQs Answered

Lab diamonds have been stealing the spotlight in the jewelry world lately. But with all the growing interest, it’s totally normal to have questions. How are they actually made? Are they really ethical? And what about quality? Do they stack up to mined diamonds?

If you’ve been curious but not quite sure where to start, you’re in the right place. We’ve rounded up the most frequently asked questions about lab-grown diamonds and answered them all in one spot. Here is just honest info to help you feel confident about what these gems are all about.

What are lab diamonds?

Lab diamonds are real diamonds that are grown in controlled lab environments using advanced technology that replicates the natural process of how diamonds form deep within the earth. Instead of being mined, they’re created above ground under high pressure and temperature. The result is what is called a lab diamond that’s chemically, physically and optically identical to a mined one.

How are lab diamonds made?

Lab diamonds are made using two high-tech methods that mimic the natural conditions under which diamonds form. The first is High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT), which recreates the intense heat and pressure found deep underground. The second is Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD), where a tiny diamond seed is placed in a chamber filled with carbon-rich gas. The carbon slowly builds up layer by layer and forms a diamond over time. Both methods result in real diamonds with the same sparkle, structure and durability as mined ones.

Is lab diamond a real diamond?

Yes, absolutely. A lab diamond is a real diamond in every sense. It has the same physical, chemical and optical properties as a natural diamond. The only difference is where it comes from: one is grown in a lab, the other is formed underground over millions of years. So whether it's mined or lab-grown, if you’re looking for sparkle, durability and authenticity, both are the real deal.

Are lab grown diamonds as hard as natural diamonds? 

Yes, lab-grown diamonds are just as hard as natural diamonds. In fact, diamond is the hardest known gemstone, and thanks to advanced technology, lab diamonds are created with the exact same crystal structure. That means they score a perfect 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness, just like mined diamonds. So when it comes to durability and everyday wear, lab diamonds hold up just as well.

Are lab grown diamonds more ethical? 

In many ways, yes. Lab-grown diamonds are seen as the more ethical choice. That’s because traditional diamond mining has a complex history with concerns around environmental impact, unsafe working conditions and conflict-related sourcing. These issues have led many people to question where their diamonds come from and what they might be supporting.

Lab-grown diamonds, on the other hand, are created in controlled environments, which makes their origin clear and traceable. There’s no mining involved, so they already avoid many of the ethical and environmental concerns tied to the traditional diamond mining industry. That’s why lab diamonds offer peace of mind for those who want a beautiful stone with a transparent background.

Can you tell the difference between lab-grown and natural diamonds? 

To the naked eye, no, you can't. Lab-grown diamonds and natural diamonds look identical in terms of sparkle, clarity and brilliance. Even trained gemologists need specialized equipment to tell them apart, because lab diamonds have the exact same physical and chemical properties as mined ones. In terms of beauty and performance, they’re virtually indistinguishable.

Do lab diamonds get cloudy? 

No, lab diamonds do not get cloudy over time. Just like natural diamonds, they’re made of pure carbon in a crystal structure that’s extremely durable. That means they keep their sparkle and clarity for a lifetime, as long as they’re properly cared for.

If a diamond ever looks a little dull, it’s usually just from everyday buildup like lotion, soap or dirt, not because the stone itself is cloudy. A quick clean will bring the shine right back. The same goes for a natural diamond.

Are lab-grown diamonds real? 

Yes, lab-grown diamonds are completely real. They have the same chemical makeup, crystal structure and physical properties as natural diamonds. The main difference is that lab diamonds are created in a lab, while natural diamonds form naturally deep underground. So when it comes to authenticity, both are genuine diamonds you can proudly wear.

Do lab-grown diamonds hold value? 

Lab-grown diamonds do hold value, but their resale market isn’t quite the same as natural diamonds yet. Because they’re created more quickly and in larger quantities, they tend to be more affordable and accessible, which is great if you want beautiful sparkle without the higher price tag.

That said, natural diamonds have traditionally been seen as more rare and collectible, which can make them hold their value better over time. So if long-term resale or investment value is your priority, natural diamonds might have the edge. But for many people, the combination of quality, price and ethical peace of mind makes lab-grown diamonds an attractive and compelling choice.

Is a lab-grown diamond the same thing as cubic zirconia and moissanite? 

No, lab-grown diamonds are not the same as cubic zirconia or moissanite. Lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds. They have the same chemical makeup, hardness and sparkle as natural diamonds because they’re made of pure carbon in the same crystal structure. 

Cubic zirconia and moissanite, on the other hand, are diamond simulants. They look similar and are very sparkly, but they’re made from completely different materials and have different properties. Moissanite, for example, is nearly as hard as a diamond and offers a beautiful, rainbow-like brilliance that many people love. It’s also a great option if you're looking for something more affordable and just as sustainable and ethical as lab-grown diamonds. Cubic zirconia is even more budget-friendly, though it’s softer and may show signs of wear over time. However, lab-grown diamonds are the closest you can get to natural diamonds without mining.

Is moissanite a lab grown diamond? 

No, moissanite is not a lab-grown diamond, though the terms can sometimes be confusing. When we say “lab-grown diamond,” we mean a diamond that’s been created in a lab but is chemically and physically the same as a natural diamond, made entirely of carbon with the same crystal structure.

Moissanite is a different gemstone altogether. It’s made of silicon carbide and has its own unique properties, including a different kind of sparkle and hardness. While moissanite is also created in a lab (meaning it’s “lab-made”), it’s not a diamond. It’s a separate gem that looks similar but isn’t quite the same mineral.

Are lab-grown diamonds cheaper than natural ones? 

Yes, lab-grown diamonds generally cost less than natural diamonds of similar size and quality. Because lab diamonds can be produced more quickly and in controlled environments, they don’t have the same rarity or mining costs as natural diamonds. This makes them a more affordable option if you want the look and feel of a real diamond without the higher price tag.

How are lab diamonds graded? 

Lab-grown diamonds are graded using the very same standards as natural diamonds. That means experts look at the famous “4C’s”: cut, color, clarity and carat weight. These factors determine the value of a diamond, no matter where it comes from.

How much does a lab grown diamond cost? 

The cost of a lab-grown diamond can vary depending on its size, cut, color and clarity, just like natural diamonds. However, on average, lab-grown diamonds tend to be about 20% to 40% less expensive than their natural counterparts.

Have More Questions?

We’ve tried to answer all the most common questions about lab-grown diamonds right here in one place but if you’re curious to dive even deeper, check out our Lab Diamond Guide for a full breakdown of how they’re made, graded and all the reasons people are choosing lab diamonds today. If you’re still deciding between lab-grown and natural, our Lab vs. Natural Diamond Guide can help you make the choice that feels right for you.