It's the question we hear most: is a lab grown diamond a "real" diamond? The short answer is yes. The longer answer is worth knowing, because it helps you choose with confidence.
#Same material, different origin
A diamond is pure carbon arranged in a crystal lattice. A lab grown diamond has exactly that structure — it is chemically, physically and optically the same as a diamond mined from the earth. The only real difference is where it formed: deep underground over millions of years, or in a controlled lab over a few weeks.
#Can you tell them apart?
Not with the naked eye, and not with a standard diamond tester. Both register as diamond. Gemological labs use specialised equipment to identify the growth method, which is why every C6 diamond comes with a report that clearly states it is lab grown.
A lab grown diamond isn't a "diamond alternative" — it is a diamond. Moissanite and cubic zirconia are the alternatives.
#Price and value
Lab grown diamonds usually cost significantly less than a mined diamond of the same size and quality. For many buyers that means a larger carat weight, a better colour or clarity grade, or more budget for the setting. Like most jewellery, resale value is typically lower than the purchase price — so the real saving comes when you buy.
#Which is right for you?
- Choose lab grown if you want the most diamond for your budget, a clear origin and a certified stone.
- Choose natural if the rarity of a mined stone matters most to you.
Either way, look at the certificate and the 4Cs first — they tell you far more about how a diamond will look than its origin does.