What Are Lab Grown Diamonds?
Lab grown diamonds are real diamonds chemically, physically, and optically identical to diamonds mined from the earth. They are created in controlled laboratory environments using two advanced processes: High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) or Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD). The result is a genuine diamond with the same crystal structure, hardness (10 on the Mohs scale), and brilliance as a mined stone.
How Are They Different from Mined Diamonds?
The only meaningful difference between a lab grown diamond and a mined diamond is their origin. A mined diamond forms deep within the earth over billions of years under extreme heat and pressure. A lab grown diamond replicates that same process in weeks inside a laboratory. To the naked eye and even under a jeweler's loupe they are indistinguishable.
Are Lab Grown Diamonds Real Diamonds?
Yes, absolutely. Lab grown diamonds are graded by the same internationally recognized gemological institutes as mined diamonds, including the International Gemological Institute (IGI) and the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). They receive the same cut, color, clarity, and carat weight grades. At Elysea Fine Jewelry, all our lab grown diamonds come with IGI certification so you can shop with complete confidence.
Price: Lab Grown vs Mined
One of the most compelling reasons to choose a lab grown diamond is value. Lab grown diamonds typically cost 50–80% less than comparable mined diamonds. This means you can get a larger, higher quality stone for the same budget or simply save significantly without compromising on beauty or quality.
Ethical and Environmental Considerations
Lab grown diamonds have a significantly smaller environmental footprint than mined diamonds. Traditional diamond mining involves large-scale land disruption, heavy water usage, and complex supply chains that can raise ethical concerns. Lab grown diamonds sidestep these issues entirely, making them a popular choice for environmentally and socially conscious shoppers.
Which Should You Choose?
If you want a beautiful, certified, genuine diamond at exceptional value and you care about ethical sourcing a lab grown diamond is an outstanding choice. The stone on your finger will be just as brilliant, just as durable, and just as meaningful as any mined diamond.
At Elysea Fine Jewelry, every piece in our collection features carefully selected lab grown diamonds set in 14K solid gold. Browse our engagement rings, tennis bracelets, and necklaces to find your perfect piece.