Lab-Grown Diamonds: What Are They and Should You Buy Them?

One question we get a lot at Ecksand is: “Are lab-grown diamonds real diamonds?” The answer is a simple “Yes”. Physically and chemically identical to natural diamonds, lab-grown diamonds are an eco-friendly and ethical alternative to their natural, mined counterparts. So if you’ve been thinking about purchasing a lab-grown diamond, or you’re simply curious as to how they’re made and would like to learn about lab-grown diamonds, keep reading to get the rundown on everything you need to know about these dazzling eco-friendly stones.

So, how are Lab-Grown Diamonds actually made?

Unlike natural diamonds, lab-grown diamonds—also known as synthetic or man-made diamonds—are created in laboratories, rather than produced in the earth. They’re made in controlled lab environments using cutting-edge technology that mimics the environmental conditions natural diamonds undergo when they are formed in the earth. Once finished, lab-created diamonds have the same chemical and physical qualities as natural diamonds. If you had both, a natural diamond, and a lab-grown diamond in front of you, it would be virtually impossible for you to notice a difference.

Lab-Grown Diamonds vs. Natural Diamonds

Chemically, physically, and optically the same as diamonds grown in the earth, the only thing that makes a lab-created diamond different from a natural diamond is its origin. And while this may seem like a small difference, the origin of a diamond can determine the ethical and environmental impact it makes on the earth.

For example, the production of lab-grown diamonds produces far less waste and uses less water than the mining of natural diamonds

Additionally, since lab-grown diamonds aren’t mined, they’re guaranteed to be 100% ethical, just like Ecksand’s natural conflict-free diamonds. Depending on the request, Ecksand is also able to tap into another level of sustainability through the ethical use of recycled diamonds. 

An Ethical Choice

Knowing exactly where your diamond comes from can say a lot about the social and environmental impact the stone has made. Simply put, since they’re not mined from the earth, lab-grown diamonds provide a guaranteed peace of mind that your diamond is 100% conflict-free.

Originating in a laboratory setting, lab-grown diamonds are produced in cruelty-free, ethically sound, safe working conditions. There is no such thing as a “blood diamond” that comes from a lab.

A Value-Conscious Option

Not only are lab-grown diamonds an ethical and eco-friendly choice, they’re also a value-conscious option. In fact, they can be up to 10x less expensive than mined diamonds. To put it simply, a lab-created diamond has a shorter supply chain, making them ultimately a less expensive choice than natural diamonds, making it a suitable alternative for a diamond engagement ring.

For engagement rings specifically, however, there are many other factors to consider. Learn more about how much you should be spending on an engagement ring here.

Moreover, all of our lab-grown diamonds have undergone meticulous assessment to ensure high quality and standards. Just like how GIA (Gemological Institute of America) is the authority on natural diamonds, the International Gemological Institute (IGI) is renowned for grading lab-created diamonds.

All the lab-grown diamonds we offer at Ecksand are IGI-certified, so you can wear them with confidence.

At Ecksand, we offer lab-created diamonds to cater to your preference, but we know that choosing the right diamond is a personal decision. It all boils down to what’s important to you. Because the true significance of the diamond you choose is not only its origins, or how it was made, but also the love which it represents.

Interested in viewing some of our lab-grown jewels or designing your own?