Are lab-grown diamonds real diamonds?

Lab-grown versus natural diamonds

• Lab-grown diamonds are grown in controlled conditions using methods such as HPHT or CVD; natural diamonds form deep in the earth over a very long time.
• Both are real diamonds with the same chemical and physical properties, unlike simulants such as cubic zirconia or moissanite, which are different materials.
• They usually cannot be told apart by eye; specialised laboratory equipment is used to identify origin.
• Lab-grown diamonds generally cost less than natural diamonds of similar size and quality, and their resale value is typically lower, so buy for the piece you love rather than as an investment.
• Both are graded on the same 4Cs: cut, colour, clarity and carat weight.

How to buy with confidence

1. 1Ask for a grading report from an independent laboratory, and check that it states the diamond is laboratory-grown.
2. 2Match the report number with the inscription on the stone where one exists.
3. 3Check the metal purity and hallmark for the setting, and follow current hallmarking rules where you buy.
4. 4Read the seller's documentation, delivery, duties and return terms, especially for made-to-order pieces.
5. 5Compare cut quality, not just carat size, because cut has a large effect on sparkle.

Example: Signora Jewels

Signora Jewels is DCPL Group's own made-to-order fine-jewellery atelier, established in 2021 in Surat with partners in the US, UK and Canada. It specialises in lab-grown diamond engagement rings, wedding bands and everyday fine jewellery, backed by three generations of jewellery craft, with clear finished-piece and stone documentation and independent IGI grading on 0.50ct and larger stones. DCPL Technology designed and engineered its Shopify storefront end to end, including a ring customiser for metal, carat, shape and size, the diamond and IGI documentation flow, multi-currency checkout and custom-design consultation paths.

Quick checklist

• Origin disclosed as lab-grown in writing.
• Independent grading report checked.
• 4Cs compared, with attention to cut.
• Metal purity and hallmark confirmed.
• Return, delivery and duty terms understood.