If you've started looking at engagement rings, earrings or a special gift, you've almost certainly come across lab-grown diamonds. They have become a popular choice in fine jewellery, and at John Stewart Jewellers they are at the heart of our collections. But what actually is the difference between a lab-grown diamond and a natural one? Here is a clear, no-nonsense guide.
What is a natural diamond?
A natural, or mined, diamond is formed deep beneath the Earth's surface over an extremely long period, under intense heat and pressure. Carbon atoms bond together in a very strong crystal structure, which is what gives a diamond its famous hardness and sparkle. These diamonds are then brought to the surface, mined, cut and polished.
What is a lab-grown diamond?
A lab-grown diamond is a real diamond that has been created above ground, using technology that recreates the conditions in which diamonds form naturally. The two main methods are known as HPHT (high pressure, high temperature) and CVD (chemical vapour deposition). Either way, the result is pure carbon arranged in the same crystal structure as a mined diamond.
That is the key point: lab-grown diamonds have the same physical, chemical and optical properties as mined diamonds. They are not imitations or simulants such as cubic zirconia or moissanite, which are entirely different materials.
Do they look different?
To the naked eye, no. A lab-grown diamond has the same brilliance, fire and sparkle as a natural diamond of the same cut and quality. Even trained jewellers need specialist equipment to tell them apart. When you look at our lab-grown diamond rings or earrings in store, what you see is genuine diamond sparkle.
Are they as durable?
Yes. Because they share the same crystal structure, lab-grown diamonds are just as hard and durable as mined diamonds. That makes them a practical choice for pieces worn every day, such as engagement rings and wedding bands. As with any fine jewellery, the setting and metal matter too, so it's worth choosing a well-made design and having your jewellery checked and cleaned from time to time.
How are they graded?
Lab-grown diamonds are graded using the same "4Cs" as natural diamonds:
- Carat: the weight of the diamond, which affects its size.
- Cut: how well the diamond has been cut and polished, which has a big impact on sparkle.
- Colour: how colourless the diamond is.
- Clarity: how free the diamond is from tiny internal or surface characteristics.
Lab-grown diamonds are graded using the same standards as mined diamonds. If you would like to know more about a particular stone, just ask our team.
Why do people choose lab-grown?
Many of our customers choose lab-grown diamonds because they offer exceptional brilliance and quality with a more sustainable origin. They also open up a wide choice of shapes and styles, from classic round solitaires to oval, pear, marquise, emerald and radiant cuts. Lab-grown technology is also used to create coloured gemstones, and you'll find lab-grown sapphires and emeralds throughout our range.
Shapes and styles to explore
If you're starting to browse, here are a few places to begin:
- Classic 1ct Hidden-Accent Solitaire: a timeless round brilliant in 9ct gold.
- 1.70ct Pear Lab Diamond Toi et Moi Ring: a modern two-stone design in 9ct white gold.
- 2ct Marquise Engagement Ring: elongated and elegant.
- Lab diamond tennis bracelets: a continuous line of sparkle for everyday luxury.
So which should you choose?
There is no wrong answer. It comes down to what matters most to you: the look, the budget, the story behind the stone and your values. If you would like to see lab-grown diamonds up close, we'd love to welcome you to one of our stores in Clydebank, Ayr or Irvine. John Stewart Jewellers has been a traditional family jeweller since 1988, and our team is always happy to talk you through the options with no pressure.
Prefer something completely unique? Our CAD design service lets you design your own piece with our in-store designers. You can also book an appointment or email us at cad@johnstewartjewellers.com.
