What is a lab-grown diamond?
A lab-grown diamond, also known as a synthetic diamond, is a genuine gemstone composed of crystallized carbon. It possesses the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as a natural diamond. Therefore, it is not an imitation, but rather a diamond whose formation occurs in a controlled environment rather than deep within the Earth.
How are lab-grown diamonds created?
Two main methods are used to grow diamonds in the laboratory: the HPHT method and the CVD method. In both cases, growth generally begins from a small diamond seed, on which carbon atoms gradually form a new crystal.
- HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature): This method replicates the conditions of pressure and heat present deep within the Earth. Under very high temperatures and pressures, carbon crystallizes around the seed to form a diamond. This is the oldest method used to produce diamonds in a laboratory.
- CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition): With this method, a thin diamond seed is placed in a chamber containing a carbon-rich gas. The energy produced by a plasma releases carbon atoms, which gradually deposit onto the seed. The diamond thus grows layer by layer in a carefully controlled environment.
These two processes produce real diamonds, which can then be cut, polished, and evaluated according to the same criteria as natural diamonds. The process of creating laboratory-grown diamonds thus makes it possible to obtain stones with characteristics comparable to those of naturally formed diamonds.
How does it compare to natural diamond?
Lab-grown and natural diamonds share the same physical and optical properties. Both achieve a hardness of 10 on the Mohs scale, offer the same brilliance, and are graded according to four criteria: cut, color, clarity, and carat weight.
However, for the buyer, two elements distinguish them:
- Origin: Natural diamonds form deep within the Earth over a very long period, while lab-grown diamonds are created in a controlled environment using processes that replicate their growth.
- Price: Lab-grown diamonds are generally more affordable than natural diamonds with comparable characteristics. For the same budget, they often allow for choosing a larger stone or dedicating more to the setting.
To the naked eye, it is not possible to reliably distinguish a lab-grown diamond from a natural diamond. Specialized gemological equipment is usually required to determine their origin. The choice between the two, especially for jewelry with lab-created diamonds, therefore mainly depends on the desired origin, budget, and personal preferences
What is the difference between a lab-grown diamond and a diamond imitation?
A lab-grown diamond should not be confused with a diamond imitation. It has the same composition and crystal structure as a natural diamond. Moissanite and cubic zirconia, on the other hand, are different materials that can reproduce some of its appearance without being diamonds. This distinction is important when comparing stones, as their hardness, way of reflecting light, durability, and value are not the same.
Our jewellers' opinion
A lab-grown diamond is a particularly attractive option when you want to prioritize the appearance of the stone and creative freedom. For the same budget, it often allows you to consider a larger stone or to dedicate more budget to a more elaborate setting, without compromising on durability and quality.
However, we advise against choosing solely based on the number of carats. Proportions, cut quality, color, and clarity all play a role in the final look of the jewelry. When comparing options, knowing what questions to ask your jeweler when buying an engagement ring can help you better understand the stone's origin, its certification, and the criteria that determine its quality.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lab-Grown Diamonds
No, it is not possible to reliably distinguish a lab-grown diamond from a natural diamond with the naked eye or a standard jeweler's loupe. Their appearance is very similar, and specialized gemological equipment is usually required to identify their origin and growth method.
Yes. Like natural diamonds, laboratory-grown diamonds retain their optical properties and color over time. They do not tarnish, but their brilliance may appear less intense if soap, cream, or grease accumulates on their surface. Regular cleaning is usually enough to restore their full brilliance and fire.
Yes, several lab-grown diamonds come with a certificate issued by a recognized gemological laboratory, which details their main characteristics and confirms their origin. At Flamme en rose, lab-grown diamonds of 50 points, or 0.50 carat, and larger come with a certificate.