What Is a Lab Grown Diamond? Everything You Need to Know

If you've been shopping for an engagement ring or fine jewelry recently, you've probably seen the term "lab grown diamond." It's one of the fastest-growing categories in the jewelry industry, and for good reason. But what exactly is a lab grown diamond, and how is it different from a mined one?

This guide answers the most common questions about lab grown diamonds: what they are, whether they're real, how they're made, and why they cost less than mined diamonds.

What Is a Lab Grown Diamond?

A lab grown diamond is a diamond that is created in a controlled laboratory environment instead of being mined from the earth. It has the same chemical composition, crystal structure, and optical properties as a mined diamond. The only difference is origin.

In other words, a lab grown diamond is a real diamond. It's not a simulant, not a substitute, and not a fake. It's a diamond that was grown using technology that replicates the natural diamond-forming process.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) officially classifies lab-created diamonds as real diamonds. That means when you buy a lab grown diamond, you're buying a genuine diamond, just one that was made above ground instead of underground.

Is a Lab Grown Diamond Real?

Yes. This is the most common question, and the answer is a definitive yes.

Lab grown diamonds are 100% real diamonds. They share the exact same chemical, physical, and optical properties as mined diamonds. They rank 10/10 on the Mohs hardness scale, the same as mined diamonds. They have the same brilliance, fire, and sparkle.

Even a trained jeweler cannot tell the difference between a lab grown diamond and a mined diamond with the naked eye or a jeweler's loupe. Only specialized laboratory equipment can detect the subtle growth patterns that indicate a diamond was grown in a lab.

If you're wondering whether a lab grown diamond is "real," the answer is yes. It's a real diamond. It's just grown differently.

How Are Lab Grown Diamonds Made?

Lab grown diamonds are created using two main methods: CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition) and HPHT (High Pressure, High Temperature). Both methods replicate the natural conditions under which diamonds form underground.

CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition): A diamond "seed" is placed in a vacuum chamber, and carbon-rich gas is introduced. The carbon atoms bond to the seed, growing the diamond layer by layer.

HPHT (High Pressure, High Temperature): Carbon is subjected to extreme heat and pressure, mimicking the conditions deep within the earth's mantle. This method grows a diamond crystal from a molten metal solution.

Both methods produce diamonds that are chemically, physically, and optically identical to mined diamonds. The result is a real diamond, just one that was grown in a lab instead of mined from the earth.

Lab Grown vs Mined Diamonds: What's the Difference?

The main difference is origin, not quality.

Lab grown diamonds and mined diamonds are identical in every way that matters: composition, hardness, brilliance, and durability. The difference is how they're made and how much they cost.

Why Are Lab Grown Diamonds Cheaper?

Lab grown diamonds generally cost 30% to 50% less than mined diamonds of the same quality. This isn't because they're lower quality. It's because of the supply chain.

Mined diamonds have a long, expensive journey. They're extracted from the earth, sorted, shipped, cut, polished, and sold through multiple middlemen before reaching a retailer. Each step adds cost.

Lab grown diamonds have a shorter, more efficient path. They're grown in a lab, cut, polished, and sold. Fewer steps means lower costs, and those savings are passed on to you.

At Ecglosty, we pass these savings directly to our customers. That means you can choose a larger carat size, higher clarity, or a better cut for the same budget.

Are Lab Grown Diamonds Certified?

Yes. Lab grown diamonds can be certified by independent gemological laboratories, just like mined diamonds. The two leading certification bodies are IGI (International Gemological Institute) and GIA (Gemological Institute of America).

These certificates verify the diamond's 4Cs: cut, color, clarity, and carat weight. At Ecglosty, every stone is IGI certified, so you know exactly what you're getting.

Do Lab Grown Diamonds Last?

Yes. Lab grown diamonds are permanent gemstones. They do not cloud, fade, or change color over time. They are just as durable as mined diamonds and are perfectly suited for everyday wear, including engagement rings.

A lab grown diamond will remain as brilliant decades from now as it was on the day you first wore it.

Where to Buy Lab Grown Diamonds

When shopping for lab grown diamonds, look for:

• Certification — IGI or GIA certified stones

• Metal options — A full range of gold colors and platinum

• Return policy — At least 30 days, free returns

• Warranty — Lifetime coverage for manufacturing defects

• Resizing — Free or low-cost resizing

At Ecglosty, every stone is IGI certified, and every piece is available in 14K or 18K white gold, yellow gold, rose gold, or platinum. Your order includes free shipping, 30-day returns, a lifetime warranty, and free ring resizing.

Final Thoughts

A lab grown diamond is a real diamond. It has the same chemical, physical, and optical properties as a mined diamond. The only difference is origin. It's grown in a lab instead of mined from the earth.

If you're looking for a diamond that's ethically created, certified, and more affordable than mined diamonds, a lab grown diamond is a smart choice. Browse our collection of lab grown diamond engagement rings, earrings, and jewelry to find the one.

Information current as of October 2026.