Are Lab Grown Diamonds as Good as Real Diamonds?

Post by PingBruce

May 13 2025

Diamonds may be forever—but the way we source them is evolving. Enter lab grown diamonds, the modern marvels that are shaking up the jewelry world. But here’s the big question: Are lab grown diamonds actually as good as real diamonds?

Spoiler alert: Yes, they are. But let’s dive a little deeper to see why.

What Are Lab Grown Diamonds, Anyway?

Lab grown diamonds—also called lab created, man made, or synthetic diamonds—are real diamonds. They’re not imitations or lookalikes like cubic zirconia or moissanite. They’re made of the same material—pure carbon crystalized in an isometric cubic structure—just like mined diamonds.

The key difference? Where they’re formed.

Natural diamonds are created deep underground over billions of years.
Lab grown diamonds are created in high-tech labs over a few weeks using advanced methods like High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) or Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD).

Are They Physically the Same?

Absolutely. Lab grown diamonds are physically, chemically, and optically identical to mined diamonds. They sparkle the same, feel the same, and even test the same on a diamond tester.

In fact, even expert gemologists can’t tell them apart without advanced equipment.

✔ Same hardness (10 on the Mohs scale)
✔ Same fire and brilliance
✔ Same ability to be graded by leading labs like IGI and GIA

So Why Are They More Affordable?

This is one of the most appealing things about lab diamonds—they’re typically 30–50% less expensive than mined diamonds of the same size and quality.

Why the price difference?

No costly mining operations
Shorter supply chain
Less energy-intensive logistics

You’re getting a visually and structurally identical diamond for a significantly lower price—without sacrificing quality.

How About the Ethical Side?

Lab grown diamonds are a great option for couples who want to minimize environmental impact and avoid the ethical concerns tied to traditional diamond mining.

They typically require:

Less land disruption
Fewer carbon emissions
No association with conflict or unsafe labor practices

Of course, sustainability can vary by producer, so it’s still important to choose a reputable lab diamond jeweller committed to transparency.

The Longevity Factor

One common misconception is that lab diamonds aren’t “forever.” The truth? A lab grown diamond will last just as long as a natural one. It’s just as durable, scratch-resistant, and suitable for heirloom jewelry.

So yes—lab diamonds can be passed down through generations, just like mined stones.

What About Value and Resale?

Lab grown diamonds typically don’t hold resale value as well as natural diamonds—at least for now. But most people aren’t buying an engagement ring as an investment; they’re buying it as a symbol of love.

And if you’re more focused on value-for-money, size, or ethical sourcing, lab diamonds offer a compelling case.