Get To Know: Lab Grown Diamonds

At Lauren B, we are known for our vast selection of diamonds, moissanite, and colored gemstones - but due to popular demand, we have extended our inventory to include lab-grown diamonds as well. There can be quite a bit of mystery surrounding these stones, and how they measure up to natural diamonds and other diamond alternatives. Here is a starting guide to determine if a lab-grown stone is right for you!

LAB GROWN DIAMONDS ARE COMPOSED OF CARBON. 

One of the most confusing aspects of distinguishing these stones from natural ones and moissanite is understanding the chemical composition. Like natural diamonds, lab-grown diamonds have a crystallized structure entirely composed of carbon. Moissanites are composed of a synthetic by-product of carbon called silicon carbide, which is man-made. 

Carbon Structure of a Diamond

LAB GROWN DIAMONDS DO NOT SUSTAIN VALUE THE SAME WAY NATURAL ONES DO. 

Lab-grown diamonds are created under manufactured conditions of compressing the carbon under high heat and regulated high temperatures. Natural diamonds start as deep as the earth’s crust, and find their way to the surface through geographical changes. They are then mined in diamond-rich areas, prior to being cut and polished into the finished gems you see in your ring. This is a process that takes time and labor and accounts for the rare status of gem-quality diamonds - which is why they are more expensive than other alternatives. The larger a diamond that a piece of rough can be cut into with minimal inclusions and maximized light refraction, the pricier it will be. 

Rough Diamond vs. Polished Diamond

LAB GROWN DIAMONDS ARE NOT ALL FLAWLESS. 

While lab-grown diamonds undergo an artificial version of the diamond creation process, it is widely misunderstood that they result in better-looking stones. Keep in mind that these are not like moissanite, which are manufactured to be inclusion free - these stones can still contain crystals, feathers, cavities, etc., just like the real thing! 

LAB GROWN DIAMONDS ARE NOT ALWAYS INEXPENSIVE. 

While most options tend to be less expensive than natural diamonds, they are still more expensive than most manufactured diamond alternatives like CZ and moissanite. The size and quality still heavily impact the overall price! 

LAB GROWN DIAMONDS ARE NOT ALWAYS GRADED LIKE NATURAL DIAMONDS.

Lab-grown diamonds are often graded in “equivalencies” due to inconsistencies that can occur - for example, GIA will now grade lab-grown diamonds, but the color/clarity/cut grades are substituted with these equivalent grades to allow for variations in appearance. 

CUT: Fancy cut shapes, such as ovals, cushions, and radiants, are often cut in a modified style, so they will not always mimic the more brilliant facets you see that create the sparkly effect in a natural diamond. 

CLARITY: If you are opting for a lab-grown diamond, you should seek options that have HIGHER graded clarity (VS-FL equivalent) than what we recommend typically compromising for in a natural diamond (VS-SI equivalent). While many lab-grown stones are clarity-enhanced, some contain darker inclusions that are composed of metal, which are a result of the manufactured growth process and can affect light refraction and the overall appearance of your stone. 

COLOR: Many lab-grown stones start out brown, and are then color-enhanced for a more improved appearance. For that reason we do not recommend purchasing a lab grown diamond based on certification alone - make sure you view the exact stone first!!

The Verdict: With any serious jewelry investment, it is important to do your research to get the most for your dollar. Natural diamonds, lab-grown diamonds, and moissanite all make beautiful centerpieces for your LB engagement ring, but it is up to you to determine what is the best choice for you!!

For more diamond education, follow us on Instagram and visit our website at laurenb.com to explore all of our pieces. For any questions or inquiries, email us at [email protected].