Learn About Lab Grown Diamonds
What Is a Lab-Grown Diamond?
A lab-grown diamond is a real diamond created through advanced technology that replicates the natural growth process that occurs deep within the earth.
While scientists have used diamond-growing technology for over half a century, only in recent years have innovations in quality and precision made them perfect for fine jewelry.
By adjusting the growth conditions in the lab, experts can now produce lab-grown diamonds in a variety of brilliant colors — including classic white, blush pinks, and icy blues.
Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Real?
Absolutely, Lab-grown diamonds share the same chemical composition, crystal structure, and optical brilliance as natural diamonds. Both are made of pure carbon in a cubic crystalline form. The difference lies only in their origin one forms beneath the earth’s surface over billions of years, while the other grows inside a high-tech laboratory under carefully controlled conditions. Even gem experts require advanced instruments to tell them apart; to the naked eye, they’re indistinguishable in beauty and sparkle.
What’s the Difference Between Lab-Grown and Natural Diamonds?
Both lab-grown and natural diamonds are made of pure carbon and share the same crystal structure, hardness, and breathtaking sparkle.
However, their origins, rarity, and environmental impact set them apart. Below is a clear side-by-side comparison to help you understand the key differences.
| Feature | Natural Diamonds | Lab-Grown Diamonds |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Formed naturally over billions of years deep within the Earth’s mantle under extreme heat and pressure. | Created in advanced laboratories that replicate those conditions in a matter of weeks. |
| Chemical Composition | 100% pure carbon in a cubic crystal structure. | 100% pure carbon in the same structure — chemically identical. |
| Formation Time | Billions of years. | About 2–6 weeks (varies by size). |
| Rarity | Finite supply; naturally scarce. | Consistent supply with controlled production. |
| Environmental Impact | Requires mining and greater land use. | Grown without mining; lower impact. |
| Ethical Sourcing | Varies by mine and chain of custody. | Fully traceable, controlled origin. |
| Price | Higher due to rarity and extraction costs. | Typically ~30–40% more affordable at like-for-like grades. |
| Visual Appearance | Unique natural inclusions and character. | Very consistent clarity and color options. |
| Certification | GIA/IGI or similar independent reports. | Certified by the same labs; clearly labeled “Lab-Grown”. |
| Durability | Mohs hardness 10 (extremely durable). | Same Mohs hardness 10 — equally durable. |
| Emotional Value | Celebrated for ancient origin and rarity. | Celebrated for innovation, value, and sustainability. |
How Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Made?
Every lab-grown diamond begins with a tiny diamond seed a foundation that guides the growth of new carbon layers until a full crystal forms. Two key methods are used:
Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD):
The seed is placed in a plasma reactor filled with carbon-rich gases. Under controlled temperatures and microwaves, carbon atoms attach to the seed layer by layer, gradually forming a complete diamond.High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT):
This process simulates the intense natural conditions found beneath the earth. Extreme pressure and heat are applied to carbon around the seed, bonding it into a solid diamond crystal within days.
Both methods produce genuine diamonds that can then be cut, polished, and graded with the same precision standards used for natural stones.
Can You Tell the Difference Between Lab Grown and Natural Diamonds?
Only with advanced gemological testing.
Lab-grown and natural diamonds look and perform identically even experts rely on specialized tools to detect their origin.
Each lab-grown diamond at Jewelry Depot Houston comes with a laser-inscribed certification number that verifies its authenticity and ensures full transparency.
This inscription is microscopic and invisible to the naked eye but can be viewed under magnification a hallmark of our commitment to trust and quality.
Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Priced Differently?
Yes, and advantageously so.
Because lab-grown diamonds can be produced efficiently and consistently, their pricing remains more accessible compared to mined diamonds of equal size and quality.
While natural diamonds are priced based on rarity, lab-grown stones offer a predictable per-carat value and exceptional brilliance for your budget.
This makes them an ideal choice for anyone who wants stunning sparkle, certified quality, and meaningful
Why Choose JDH for Lab-Grown Diamonds
Ethical & Sustainable
Say goodbye to the environmental and ethical concerns associated with traditional diamond mining. Our lab-grown diamonds are eco-friendly and conflict-free.
Unbeatable Prices
Houston, get ready to dazzle without breaking the bank! We offer the best prices in town, so you can enjoy stunning diamonds without the hefty price tag.
Superior Quality
Our lab-grown diamonds are cultivated with precision, resulting in exceptional clarity, color, and brilliance, rivaling traditional mined diamonds.
Endless Choices
Explore a vast selection of exquisite lab-grown diamond jewelry, from engagement rings that symbolize love to stunning necklaces, earrings, and more.
Why Choose Us
Ethical & Sustainable
Say goodbye to the environmental and ethical concerns associated with traditional diamond mining. Our lab-grown diamonds are eco-friendly and conflict-free.
Unbeatable Prices
Houston, get ready to dazzle without breaking the bank! We offer the best prices in town, so you can enjoy stunning diamonds without the hefty price tag.
Superior Quality
Our lab-grown diamonds are cultivated with precision, resulting in exceptional clarity, color, and brilliance, rivaling traditional mined diamonds.
Endless Choices
Explore a vast selection of exquisite lab-grown diamond jewelry, from engagement rings that symbolize love to stunning necklaces, earrings, and more.
About Us
Wholesale Pricing To Public. Since 1973, Jewelry Depot Houston has been manufacturing exquisite, unique diamond jewelry for retail stores around the world – while also offering the same value directly to savvy Houstonians. Visit us today!
About Loose Lab Grown Diamonds
Loose lab grown diamonds are a type of diamond that have been grown by scientists in a laboratory, instead of within the Earth's mantle. Loose lab diamonds have undergone a growth process, then precise cutting and polishing, to produce a sparkling diamond that is ready to set into an engagement ring or piece of jewelry.
