Natural & Laboratory-Grown Diamonds

Diamond, with a different beginning

Natural diamonds form within the Earth. Laboratory-grown diamonds are produced in controlled conditions. They have essentially the same chemical, physical and optical properties, but specialist testing can identify differences associated with their growth.

Laboratory-grown diamond is not another name for cubic zirconia or moissanite. Those are different materials that may resemble diamond. Read the material description and origin disclosure for the particular stone rather than relying on a photograph or a broad term such as “created.”

How HPHT and CVD fit into the story

HPHT grows diamond under high pressure and high temperature. CVD grows diamond from a carbon-containing gas onto a seed. A laboratory report may identify the growth method and any post-growth treatment within the scope of its service.

HPHT is also used to describe some post-growth color treatment. It is therefore worth asking whether the term describes how a stone grew or work performed afterward. CVD-grown diamonds can receive post-growth treatment too. Neither abbreviation alone selects the most beautiful stone for you.

Compare beauty stone by stone

Origin does not tell you how well a diamond is cut or whether it has inclusions or body color. Compare the actual stones in similar lighting, at a similar viewing scale and in motion. Read their dimensions as well as carat weight, and consider how each works with your chosen setting.

A clean, well-cut laboratory-grown diamond can be lively and beautiful. A natural diamond can be equally compelling. Decide which appearance you enjoy and which origin you prefer without treating either label as a guarantee of sparkle, flawless clarity or suitability for every mounting.

Read the report format, not only the logo

For its current eligible colorless-to-near-colorless laboratory-grown service, GIA provides an overall Premium or Standard Quality Assessment. Separate services cover colored laboratory-grown diamonds. IGI continues to use 4Cs grading for natural and laboratory-grown diamonds. Older documents and other laboratories can use different formats.

Check the issuing laboratory, report date, origin, measurements and disclosures. Verify the number through the laboratory’s official service and ask a qualified jeweler to help match the physical stone to its document when needed. A successful report lookup confirms a record; it does not alone identify the stone in front of you.

Set a budget around the complete piece

Laboratory-grown diamonds generally cost less than comparable natural diamonds, but there is no fixed saving for every purchase. Compare current quotes for the specifications and design you actually want. A larger stone is one option; keeping a smaller total budget or prioritizing the mounting are equally valid choices.

For a TJS engagement ring, the mounting and selected center diamond are separately priced parts of the complete ring. Ask for a clear breakdown and check the final selected diamond. Neither origin comes with a promise that the purchase price will be retained or that resale value will increase.

Ask for evidence behind environmental claims

Laboratory-grown describes an origin. By itself, it does not establish that a diamond is carbon neutral, environmentally friendly or produced with renewable energy. Natural origin alone does not establish responsible sourcing either.

Specific claims need evidence for the actual supply chain and the claim being made. Ask about production, energy, labor and traceability, and distinguish documented information from general marketing language. TJS does not treat a diamond’s origin as an automatic environmental certification.

Care for the whole piece

Both origins produce hard gemstones that can still chip or be damaged by a sharp blow. Protect the stone, metal and setting from heavy impact and unsuitable chemicals. Cleaning depends on the complete piece, including any treatments, coatings and companion stones.

A laboratory-grown origin is not permission to use any cleaner or machine. Follow the care instructions for the actual jewelry. If a stone moves, a prong catches or a clasp is unreliable, stop wearing the piece and arrange an inspection.

Common questions