Is there a difference between lab-grown diamonds and natural diamonds?
Natural diamonds form deep within the Earth over billions of years, while lab-grown diamonds are created in controlled laboratory environments in just weeks or months. There may be minor differences, such as the presence of certain inclusions or trace elements like nitrogen, but lab-grown and natural diamonds are chemically and physically identical. One of the key advantages of lab-grown diamonds is that they typically cost less than natural diamonds, offering excellent value without compromising on beauty or quality.
Why choose a lab over a natural diamond?
Lab-grown diamonds are a sustainable choice, avoiding the harmful environmental impact of traditional mining, such as ecosystem damage and water pollution. Ethically, they offer a conflict-free alternative to mined diamonds, which have been linked to issues like blood diamonds in West Africa. Chemically and physically identical to natural diamonds, lab-grown stones deliver the same sparkle—without the ethical or environmental cost.
Lab diamonds are created through two processes:
- High pressure + high temperature (HPHT)
- This process starts by subjecting carbon to extreme pressure and heat, replicating the conditions under which natural diamonds form deep within the earth.
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Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD)
- This process begins with a diamond seed placed in a vacuum chamber. A hydrogen-rich gas mixture is introduced and, under controlled pressure and temperature, diamond growth gradually occurs on the seed.
Does AGOVIA use lab-grown diamonds?
Yes - we use lab diamonds of the highest quality. All lab diamonds used by AGOVIA meet the following criteria:
- D-F colour grade
- Only VVS1 and above
- Centre-stones are laser engraved and traceable
We also provide fancy coloured lab diamonds, which can be sourced upon request. Custom diamond cutting is also available if you have a specific cut or shape in mind.
Note: From October 1st 2025 the GIA's grading system (4Cs) will no longer apply to lab grown diamonds. Lab grown diamonds will be seperated into premium and standard quality. For more information refer to the GIA's website.
