How To Tell If It's A Lab-Grown Diamond

Lab-Grown vs. Natural Diamonds

At first glance, could you tell which is which?

You may be surprised to learn that even an experienced eye often cannot distinguish a lab-grown diamond from a natural diamond simply by looking at it.

Lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds. They have essentially the same chemical composition, crystal structure, and optical and physical properties as natural diamonds, which means both can deliver the brilliance, fire, and sparkle we love.

So, what is the difference?

 IT STARTS WITH ORIGIN

A natural diamond was created deep within the Earth through geological processes over an extraordinary amount of time.

A lab-grown diamond is created using technology that recreates the conditions necessary for diamond growth, typically through HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature) or CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition).

The finished diamonds can look remarkably similar. Their origins are what set them apart.

HOW CAN WE TELL WHICH IS WHICH?

This is where gemological expertise and technology come in.

Under magnification, a laser inscription on the diamond's girdle can provide important identification information. Laboratory-grown diamonds evaluated by GIA are laser-inscribed with “Laboratory-Grown” along with their GIA assessment or report number.

However, an inscription alone isn't the scientific test for origin. Professional gemological laboratories use specialized equipment to examine characteristics associated with how a diamond grew. GIA notes that sophisticated testing is needed to definitively distinguish natural from laboratory-grown diamonds.

WHAT ABOUT VALUE OVER TIME?

This is an important part of the conversation, and one that can influence which diamond is right for you.

Natural diamonds have the element of natural rarity and an established global market behind them. A natural diamond's value is influenced by many factors, including its cut, color, clarity, carat weight, rarity, desirability, and market conditions.

Lab-grown diamonds can offer an incredible opportunity to purchase a larger or higher-quality diamond at a more accessible price point. However, because they can continue to be produced and production technology continues to evolve, their long-term resale market is different from that of natural diamonds.

Ask yourself what matters most to you.

Is it natural rarity, history, and potential long-term value retention?
Or is it maximizing size, quality, and beauty within your budget?

THERE ISN'T ONE RIGHT ANSWER. THERE'S YOUR ANSWER.

At Sami Fine Jewelry, we believe purchasing a diamond should be about education, transparency, and finding the stone that makes the most sense for you.

Whether you fall in love with a natural diamond or choose lab-grown, we'll walk you through the differences so you can feel confident about exactly what you're purchasing.