Lab-grown diamond: difference, 4C and care

Lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds created in a controlled environment and have the same chemical and physical properties as natural diamonds. They are typically clear/white, but can also appear in selected colour tones depending on production. Like natural diamonds, they are assessed by the 4Cs: carat, cut, colour, and clarity. Lab-grown diamonds are often chosen for their brilliant sparkle, high durability, and the ability to get more diamond “for the money”. In jewellery, they look like diamonds—because they are diamonds.

Lab-grown diamonds have become very popular in recent years, and many customers ask the same questions: Are they “real”? How do they differ from natural diamonds? And can you tell the difference? Below is a clear overview to make it easier to choose the diamond type that fits your needs.

What is a lab-grown diamond?

A lab-grown diamond is a real diamond grown in a laboratory under controlled conditions. It has the same crystal structure as a natural diamond and is made of carbon as well. That means lab-grown diamonds have the same hardness, brilliance, and durability as natural diamonds.

What differs is the origin: natural diamonds form in nature over a very long time, while lab-grown diamonds are created in a shorter time through a controlled process.

Are lab-grown diamonds “real”?

Yes. Lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds—not the same as cubic zirconia or rhinestones. Cubic zirconia and rhinestones are different materials that may look like diamonds, but they do not have diamond’s structure and properties. Lab-grown is diamond, just with a different origin.

How are lab-grown diamonds made?

There are typically two main methods:

HPHT (high pressure/high temperature), which replicates natural conditions
CVD (chemical vapor deposition), where diamond layers are built up over time

Can you see a difference between lab-grown and natural diamonds?

With the naked eye, you generally cannot see a difference. Lab-grown and natural diamonds can have the same colour, clarity, and cut—and therefore look identical in jewellery. The difference is typically documented through certification/laser inscription and professional testing methods.

What colours do lab-grown diamonds come in?

The most common are clear/white diamonds. Lab-grown diamonds can also be found in colour tones (fancy colours) depending on production, but this varies widely from assortment to assortment.

What do the 4Cs mean for lab-grown diamonds?

Lab-grown diamonds are graded the same way as natural diamonds using the 4Cs:

Carat (weight): the diamond’s size/weight
Cut: strongly affects how much the diamond sparkles
Colour: how colourless/warm it is on the “white” scales
Clarity: how many and how visible inclusions are

In everyday wear, cut is often what you notice most, because it drives light performance.

How durable is a lab-grown diamond?

Lab-grown diamonds are just as hard and durable as natural diamonds. That makes them well-suited for everyday jewellery—including rings that face more wear. As with all jewellery, it is still important to care for the setting, as settings can be affected by impacts over time.

Can lab-grown diamonds handle water, soap, and perfume?

The diamond itself can handle most things, but it can lose brilliance if a film of soap residue, skin oils, lotion, or makeup builds up. This applies to both natural and lab-grown diamonds. In addition, chlorine and cleaning products can affect the metal, so it’s still a good idea to remove jewellery for bathing, swimming, and cleaning.

How do you clean lab-grown diamond jewellery?

A gentle clean is often best:

lukewarm water and a little mild soap
a soft cloth or a very soft brush around the setting
rinse carefully and dry with a soft cloth

Often the sparkle returns immediately once oils and soap residue are removed.

Why do many people choose lab-grown diamonds?

Many choose lab-grown diamonds because they:

are real diamonds with the same look and durability
make it possible to get a larger diamond or higher 4C quality within the same budget
fit well with modern jewellery buying, where clear documentation and specifications matter

Do lab-grown diamonds need a certificate?

For larger diamonds, certificates (e.g., from IGI or GIA) are often relevant because they document the 4Cs and identity. For smaller stones, product data documentation may be sufficient.