FAQs

1. What is a lab-grown diamond?
- Lab-grown diamonds, also known as synthetic or cultured diamonds, are diamonds produced in controlled laboratory environments using advanced technological processes. They have the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as mined diamonds.

2. Are lab-grown diamonds real diamonds?
- Yes, lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds with the same chemical composition and crystal structure as natural diamonds. 

3. How are lab-grown diamonds made?
- There are two primary methods for producing lab-grown diamonds: High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD). There is a lot of content available that explains this process, put simply the processes recreate environments that offers the right conditions for the formation of diamonds. Though it is simulated the outputs tend to still have flaws but are generally of higher quality than most mined diamonds.

4. Are lab-grown diamonds cheaper?
- Generally, lab-grown diamonds tend to be more affordable than their mined counterparts, but prices can vary based on quality, size, and other factors.

5. How do lab-grown diamonds differ from cubic zirconia or moissanite?
- Cubic zirconia (CZ) and moissanite are both diamond simulants, meaning they look similar to diamonds but have different chemical compositions and properties. Lab-grown diamonds are chemically and physically identical to natural diamonds.

6. Can jewellers tell the difference between lab-grown and natural diamonds?
- It can be challenging for even experienced jewellers to distinguish between the two without specialized equipment, as both have the same physical and chemical properties.

7. Are lab-grown diamonds ethical?
- One of the primary appeals of lab-grown diamonds is that they are consciously sourced, avoiding issues related to "blood diamonds" or conflict diamonds. They also tend to have a smaller environmental footprint. The diamonds are likely produced in a large industrial complex that recreates the environment that offers the right conditions for formation. The source is always know and are traceable.

8. Do lab-grown diamonds hold their value?
- Traditionally, natural diamonds have held their value better than lab-grown diamonds. However, the market and perception of lab-grown diamonds are evolving, so this may change over time.
This is arguable as the price of mined diamonds, their uniqueness and the output generated by mines is opaque and also doesn't account for all diamonds that have already been mined. The price is artificially propped up at best. 

9. How do I care for a lab-grown diamond?
- The care for a lab-grown diamond is the same as for a natural diamond, requiring regular cleaning and inspections to ensure they remain in the best condition.

10. Are there any colour or clarity differences between lab-grown and natural diamonds?
- Lab-grown diamonds can be produced in various colors and clarities, similar to natural diamonds. However, some labs have perfected techniques to consistently produce diamonds of high quality.

Reach out to an advisor to get the best answers and guidance.