Are Lab Grown Diamonds Real? Myths, Facts, And What Actually Matters

If you're shopping for a lab created diamonds solitaire ring or any diamond jewellery, you've probably asked yourself: "Are lab grown diamonds real?"

It's a fair question. And if you're feeling skeptical, you're not alone.

The confusion around lab created diamonds is real. Some call them "fake." Others say they're "synthetic." And somewhere in between, there's a lot of misinformation that makes buying one feel risky.

Here's the truth: Lab created diamonds are 100% real diamonds. They're not imitations, not simulants, and definitely not "fake." They're chemically, physically, and optically identical to mined diamonds.

In this guide, we'll break down exactly what lab created diamonds are, bust the biggest myths, and help you understand what actually matters when choosing a diamond whether it's for an engagement ring, a gift, or a personal milestone.

Let's clear the air.

What Are Lab Grown Diamonds?

Lab created diamonds are diamonds that are created in a controlled laboratory environment using advanced technology that replicates the natural diamond formation process.

Here's how they're made:

Natural diamonds form deep within the Earth's mantle under extreme heat and pressure over billions of years. Lab created diamonds are created in a matter of weeks using the same carbon-based process, just in a controlled setting.

There are two primary methods:

HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature):

This method mimics the natural conditions under which diamonds form. A small diamond seed is placed in carbon, then exposed to extreme pressure (over 1.5 million pounds per square inch) and heat (around 1,500°C). The carbon melts and forms a diamond around the seed.

CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition):

This involves placing a diamond seed in a chamber filled with carbon-rich gas. The gas is ionized, breaking down the molecules. Carbon atoms then attach to the seed, layer by layer, forming a diamond crystal.

Both methods produce real diamonds with the same crystal structure, brilliance, and durability as mined diamonds.

Myths vs Facts: Let's Bust the Confusion

Myth 1: Lab Created Diamonds Are Fake

Fact: Lab created diamonds are real diamonds. They have the same chemical composition (pure carbon in a crystal lattice structure), the same hardness (10 on the Mohs scale), and the same optical properties. The only difference is their origin.

Myth 2: Lab Created Diamonds Are Inferior Quality

Fact: Lab created diamonds are graded using the same 4Cs (Cut, Clarity, Color, Carat) as mined diamonds. Many lab created diamonds are of exceptional quality, often with fewer inclusions because they're grown in controlled environments.

Myth 3: They Don't Last Forever

Fact: Diamonds whether lab grown or mined, are the hardest natural material on Earth. Lab grown diamonds are just as durable and will last a lifetime (and beyond). They don't fade, chip easily, or lose their sparkle.

Myth 4: Lab Created Diamonds Aren't Certified

Fact: Reputable lab created diamonds come with certification from renowned gemological institutes like IGI (International Gemological Institute). They're graded for cut, clarity, color, and carat just like mined diamonds.

Myth 5: They're Mass-Produced and Generic

Fact: While the diamond itself is lab-created, the design, craftsmanship, and setting are completely customizable. At Earthly Jewels, every piece of lab created diamond jewellery is designed with intention, precision, and artistry.

How Lab Created Diamonds Compare to Mined Diamonds

Let's get specific. Here's a side-by-side comparison:

Feature	Lab Created Diamond	Mined Diamonds
Chemical Composition	Pure carbon (C)	Pure carbon (C)
Hardness	10 on Mohs scale	10 on Mohs scale
Brilliance	Identical sparkle and fire	Identical sparkle and fire
Certification	IGI, GIA (same standards)	IGI, GIA (same standards)
Durability	Lasts forever	Lasts forever
Origin	Created in a lab (weeks)	Mined from Earth (billions of years)
Environmental Impact	Lower carbon footprint	Higher environmental impact
Price	40–60% more affordable	Higher due to mining costs

The takeaway? Lab created diamonds are identical in every way that matters, except origin and price.

What Actually Matters When Buying a Diamond

Whether you choose lab grown or mined, here's what you should focus on:

1. The 4Cs: Cut, Clarity, Color, Carat

These determine how beautiful your diamond looks. A well-cut diamond will sparkle more than a poorly cut one, regardless of whether it's lab grown or mined.

• Cut: Affects brilliance and fire
• Clarity: Fewer inclusions = clearer diamond
• Color: Colorless diamonds (D-F) are most valued
• Carat: Size matters, but so does quality

2. Certification

Always buy a diamond with a certificate from IGI or GIA. This guarantees authenticity and quality.

3. Craftsmanship and Setting

The design, metalwork, and setting can make or break your jewellery. A stunning diamond deserves a beautifully crafted setting.

4. Brand Trust and Transparency

Choose a jeweller who's transparent about sourcing, grading, and pricing. You deserve to know exactly what you're buying.

Why More Buyers Are Choosing Lab Created Diamonds

The shift toward man made diamonds isn't just about price. It's about values, access, and modern luxury.

Ethical Sourcing

Man made diamonds don't involve mining, which means no environmental disruption, no questionable labor practices, and complete traceability.

Value for Money

You get a larger, higher quality diamond for the same budget. That means a bigger lab created diamond solitaire ring without compromise.

Design Flexibility

With the savings, you can invest in better craftsmanship, unique designs, or even upgrade your setting.

Modern Luxury Mindset

Today's buyers want luxury that aligns with their values. Lab created diamonds offer brilliance without the baggage.

Earthly Jewels' Perspective: Real Diamonds, Real Craftsmanship

At Earthly Jewels, we believe that luxury shouldn't come with compromise.

That's why every piece in our collection features certified Man made diamonds, real diamonds that meet the highest standards of quality and beauty.

We're committed to:

• Transparency: You know exactly what you're getting, from the diamond's origin to its grading.
• Certified Quality: Every diamond is IGI-certified and graded with precision.
• Timeless Design: Our lab created diamond jewellery is crafted to last, designed to be cherished across generations.

We're not here to convince you. We're here to inform you. Because when you understand what lab created diamonds truly are, the choice becomes easy.

FAQs: Your Questions, Answered

Are lab grown diamonds real diamonds?

Yes. Lab created diamonds are 100% real diamonds. They have the same chemical composition (carbon), physical properties, and optical brilliance as mined diamonds.

Do lab grown diamonds last forever?

Absolutely. Lab created diamonds are just as durable as mined diamonds. They're rated 10 on the Mohs hardness scale and will last a lifetime and beyond.

Are lab grown diamonds certified?

Yes. Reputable lab created diamonds come with certification from institutes like IGI or GIA, graded on the same 4Cs as mined diamonds.

Can lab grown diamonds be used in engagement rings?

Definitely. Lab created diamonds are perfect for engagement rings. They offer the same beauty, durability, and sentiment as mined diamonds, often at a better value.

Are lab grown diamonds a good investment?

Diamonds, lab grown or mined, are generally not considered financial investments. However, they're invaluable as personal investments: in love, milestones, and memories that last forever.

Conclusion: It's Not About Origin. It's About What Matters to You.

So, are lab created diamonds real?

Yes. Without question.

They're real diamonds, backed by science, certified by experts, and chosen by people who value transparency, quality, and modern luxury.

The real question isn't whether they're real. It's whether they're right for you.

If you want a diamond that's ethically sourced, beautifully crafted, and aligned with your values, without compromising on brilliance or durability, then Man made diamonds are an excellent choice.

Ready to explore?
Browse our collection of lab created diamond jewellery and discover wedding bands engagement rings and necklaces designed to reflect a style that feels as unique as your story.

Because at Earthly Jewels, we believe luxury should be brilliant, transparent, and made to last.