Lab-Grown Diamond FAQ

Lab-grown diamond are relatively new and gaining popularity, so we have put together an easy to follow frequently asked questions (FAQ) for Lab-Grown diamonds. 

What Are Lab Grown Diamonds?

Diamonds that are formed in a lab instead of being naturally mined from the earth are known as lab-grown diamonds. Lab-grown diamonds are sometimes referred to as synthetic or cultured diamonds, though synthetic is misnomer as lab grown diamonds have the same chemical structure and physical properties as a natural mined diamond. It is only the method of formation that differentiates a diamond that is mined from the earth and a lab-grown diamond. 

How Are Lab Grown Diamonds Made?

Lab-Grown Diamonds can be made by two processes - HPTP (High Pressure and High Temperature) and CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition). To know more about these processes check out our guide on Lab-Grown Diamonds.

What Is The Difference Between A Natural And A Lab-Grown Diamond?

The only difference between a natural and lab-grown diamond is the source.  Lab-grown/synthetic/cultured/man-made diamonds are made in a laboratory, while natural diamonds are mined from the earth. In both processes, diamond rough is obtained and then cut and polished. 

Do Lab-Grown Diamonds Cost Less Than Natural Diamonds?

Yes, lab-grown diamonds are less expensive than natural diamonds. At ILA we have diamonds across a wide price range. Our Artificial Intelligence sorts through our large collection of certified diamonds to show you the best diamond options at the best prices in both lab-grown and mined diamonds. The process does the work of hundreds of gemologists in a matter of seconds. You can compare the prices of identical ethically mined diamonds and lab-grown diamonds to see the relative price differences. 

Are Lab Grown Diamond Better or Natural Diamonds?

We believe that both natural or lab-grown are special. While natural diamonds are a testament to nature’s beauty, lab-grown diamonds are a testament to the brilliance of human ingenuity. The ability to create diamonds, which takes nature millions of years, in a laboratory is nothing short of a miracle. At ILA we offer both natural ethically mined diamonds and sustainable lab-grown diamonds as options for your center diamond in our engagement rings.  Our patented Artificial Intelligence goes one step further and matches the identical mined diamond to an identical lab-grown diamond to see the price savings and differences between the two. See our Engagement Ring section to preview our diamonds. 

How Do You Tell If A Diamond Is Lab-Grown Or Natural Diamond?

Most certified lab-grown diamonds are laser inscribed on their girdle indicating they are lab-grown.  Both natural and lab-grown diamonds often have certain characteristics in their inclusions that can indicate to a trained gemologist whether the diamond is lab-grown or natural. The most legitimate method for determining if a diamond is lab grown or natural is by having it tested at a gemological laboratory such as GIA or IGI. 

Is A Diamond Simulant the Same As A Lab-Grown Diamond?

Diamond simulants and lab-grown diamond are not the same. A simulant looks similar to a natural and lab-grown diamond but lacks the chemical and physical properties of a diamond. They are imitations of a diamond. These simulants/imitations can be formed naturally or manufactured in a lab. Some common examples of diamond simulants are colorless sapphires, YAG, zircon, cubic zirconia, moissanite, glass, etc.