Lab Grown Diamond Guide: Beauty Born in a Lab

Are they real diamonds – like, really real? The short answer is - yes. They share the same atomic structure and physical properties as natural diamonds, making them identical in every way except for their origin. Many lab grown diamonds are certified by the same grading laboratories that certify natural diamonds, such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and the International Gemological Institute (IGI). They are graded as real diamonds in accordance with the Four C’s, and they have the exact same chemical composition as a natural diamond.

Natural diamonds are created by carbon atoms crystallising under extreme heat and pressure, before being pushed to the surface by a volcanic eruption. Hard as it is to believe, laboratories around the world have managed to recreate these conditions in a controlled manner, producing real diamonds in under a month, as opposed to the billions of years it takes in nature. And yes – they are identical to a natural stone, with even the most experienced gemmologists unable to distinguish a natural from lab grown diamond. It is for this reason however, that every diamond produced in a lab will be recorded as such.

The only significant difference between lab grown and natural diamonds lies in their formation process. While natural diamonds take millions of years to form, lab grown diamonds are created within a matter of weeks in controlled environments.

Lab-grown diamonds are created using advanced technological processes that simulate the natural conditions under which diamonds form in the Earth’s mantle. These processes involve high pressure, high temperature (HPHT), or chemical vapour deposition (CVD). Here's how each method works:

High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT): A small diamond seed, along with pure carbon, is placed inside a press that applies extreme pressure and heat. Temperatures between 1,300-1,600°C and pressures of 5-6 gigapascals are applied to the carbon, causing it to melt and crystallise around the seed, eventually forming a larger diamond. Once the diamond has grown, it is slowly cooled to avoid defects. HPHT diamonds often have a yellowish tint due to nitrogen impurities present during the process.

Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD): This method involves growing diamonds by introducing a gas mixture, typically methane and hydrogen, into a chamber with a small diamond seed. The gases are heated to high temperatures, creating a plasma that breaks down the methane molecules and releases carbon atoms. These carbon atoms then bond to the diamond seed, gradually growing the diamond layer by layer. With precise control over temperature (usually between 800-1200°C) and environmental conditions, CVD produces high-purity diamonds, often with fewer inclusions or colour imperfections compared to HPHT diamonds.

Both methods result in diamonds that are indistinguishable from natural ones to the naked eye. The choice between HPHT and CVD generally depends on the desired size and quality of the diamond.

When searching for the perfect diamond for engagement rings or wedding rings, it is certainly worth considering a lab grown stone. The process of selecting your diamond be it lab grown or natural is the same, you will need to take into consideration the Four C’s – Cut, Clarity, Colour and Carat. Remember our gemmologists are available to guide you through the finer points of selecting a stone for engagement rings, wedding rings or diamond rings if you need support. Lab grown diamonds offer several benefits that appeal to modern consumers, particularly those interested in sustainability, ethics, and value for money.

• Ethical sourcing: Lab-grown diamonds eliminate concerns over conflict or "blood" diamonds and human rights violations associated with traditional diamond mining.
• Sustainability: Producing lab diamonds requires fewer resources and has a lower environmental impact compared to mining, reducing land displacement and ecosystem disruption.
• Cost-effective: Lab created diamonds are generally 20-40% less expensive than natural diamonds, offering better value for consumers seeking larger or higher-quality stones at a lower price.
• Identical properties: Chemically, physically, and optically, lab diamonds are the same as natural diamonds, ensuring the same brilliance, durability, and appearance.
• Higher quality: Lab grown diamonds are often created with fewer inclusions and imperfections due to the controlled environment, leading to more flawless stones.
• Customisation options: The controlled growth process allows for more consistency and precision in creating diamonds, providing more flexibility for specific size, shape, and quality preferences.

Lab grown diamonds are used in all types of jewellery, from engagement rings to earrings, bracelets, and necklaces. Since they are real diamonds, they can be cut into a variety of shapes, including the popular round, oval princess, emerald, pear etc.

Moreover, lab grown diamond jewellery can often be customised to suit individual preferences, whether you're looking for a bespoke engagement ring or another unique piece, we ensure that each lab diamond meets high standards of clarity, cut, and colour, resulting in rings that are indistinguishable from mined diamonds. With their elegance and eco-friendliness, Regal's lab grown diamond rings are perfect for modern couples seeking both beauty and sustainability.