Lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds — chemically, physically, and optically identical to diamonds mined from the earth. The only difference is their origin.
What is a Lab-Grown Diamond?
A lab-grown diamond is created in a controlled laboratory environment that replicates the natural diamond-growing process. They have the same crystal structure (cubic carbon), the same hardness (10 on the Mohs scale), and the same brilliance, fire, and scintillation as mined diamonds.
How Are They Made? CVD vs HPHT
Two technologies dominate the industry:
- CVD (Chemical Vapour Deposition) — A diamond seed is placed in a chamber filled with carbon-rich gas. The gas is ionised, and carbon atoms slowly deposit on the seed, layer by layer, forming a diamond crystal over several weeks.
- HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature) — This mimics the conditions deep within the Earth where natural diamonds form. Carbon is subjected to ~1,500 °C and ~5 GPa of pressure to crystallise into diamond.
Are They Certified?
Yes. At EXOTIC DIAMONDS, every lab-grown diamond above 0.20 ct is independently certified by IGI (International Gemological Institute) — the world's leading authority for grading lab-grown diamonds. The certificate covers the standard 4Cs: Cut, Colour, Clarity, and Carat.
Lab-Grown vs Natural — At a Glance
| Attribute | Lab Grown | Mined |
|---|---|---|
| Composition | 100% Carbon | 100% Carbon |
| Hardness | 10 / 10 | 10 / 10 |
| Brilliance | Identical | Identical |
| Price | ~40–60% less | Premium |
| Environmental Impact | Minimal | Significant |
| Ethical Sourcing | Conflict-free | Variable |
Why Choose Lab-Grown?
- Ethical & Conflict-Free — No mining, no exploitation, no environmental damage.
- Better Value — You get a larger, higher-quality stone for the same budget.
- Identical Beauty — Even a gemologist can't tell them apart without specialised equipment.
- Sustainable — Up to 7× less energy and 99% less land disturbance than mining.
Common Misconceptions
"Are lab-grown diamonds fake?" — No. They are real diamonds. "Fake" diamonds would be moissanite or cubic zirconia, which are different materials entirely.
"Do they hold value?" — Lab-grown diamonds are priced more efficiently from day one. EXOTIC DIAMONDS offers a Lifetime Exchange & Buyback programme on all lab-grown pieces.
Shop the Collection
Explore our full range of IGI-certified lab-grown diamond jewellery — from delicate everyday studs to statement bridal solitaires — all crafted in 9KT BIS-hallmarked gold.