What Is a Lab Created Diamond?

Not all diamonds are formed below the earth’s surface! Lab-created diamonds are becoming more and more popular for engagement rings, earrings, and pendants. Keep reading to learn more about lab-created diamonds.  

What is a lab-created diamond?  ​

Lab-created diamonds are man-made diamonds that are formed in highly regulated laboratory conditions. These diamonds typically take less than a month to grow, while natural diamonds are billions of years old. Lab-created diamonds look identical to mined diamonds – when placed side by side, you will not be able to tell them apart. They can still have inclusions and various color grades, just like natural diamonds. 

The benefit of lab-created diamonds is that they are far more affordable than mined diamonds. They are generally 30% cheaper than their natural counterparts. This allows you to get an even bigger, higher-quality diamond with your budget. ​

​Are lab-created diamonds real? ​

​Yes, lab-created diamonds are 100% real diamonds! Lab diamonds are chemically, optically, and physically identical to mined diamonds. They are not diamond simulants, like cubic zirconia. Lab-created diamonds will test as a diamond with a diamond tester. 

Lab-created diamonds vs natural diamonds ​

The only real difference between lab-created diamonds and natural diamonds is their origin. A well-cut lab-created diamond will sparkle just as much as a well-cut natural diamond. Shopping for a lab-created diamond will be the same as shopping for a natural diamond – you'll want to make sure you are choosing the right 4 Cs for your preferences and budget as well as making sure you are choosing a high-quality, certified diamond. 

You can learn more about the differences between lab and natural diamonds here. 

Lab-created diamond vs moissanite  

Moissanite and diamond are very difficult to tell apart from the untrained eye. Moissanite is also grown in a lab but is generally more affordable. A round-cut 1-carat Forever One Moissanite (D-F color, excellent cut, IF-VS1 clarity) will cost about $600. A lab diamond equivalent will cost anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000.  

Are lab-created diamonds worth anything? 

Since lab-created diamonds are relatively new to the market, it’s not entirely certain how much they will be worth in the long run. While it’s possible to resell your lab diamond, lab-created diamonds are already pretty affordable and easy for manufacturers to reproduce, so don’t expect them to resell for much. We recommend treating your lab diamond engagement ring or jewelry piece as a gift rather than an investment.  

Are lab-created diamonds good? 

In general, yes, lab-created diamonds are good. Like natural diamonds, there are high-quality lab-created diamonds as well as low-quality lab-created diamonds. While shopping for a lab-created diamond, you’ll still want to look for a well-cut stone as this has the greatest impact on a diamond’s beauty. 

Lab-Created Diamond Rings 

Most of our customers are now choosing lab-created diamond rings over mined diamond rings. Please note that at Ritani, our settings with diamond embellishments feature tiny natural diamonds; you’ll be choosing a lab-created diamond for your center stone. Here are the most popular styles of lab-created diamond rings.  

Solitaire Lab-Created Diamond Rings   

Solitaire rings feature a plain band and a single diamond. This is one of the most popular (and timeless) ring styles. They’re also typically the most affordable since they are simple and don’t require extra embellishments.  

Shop Solitaire Rings 

Sidestone Lab-Created Diamond Rings 

​Sidestone engagement rings feature tiny diamonds set in the band for extra sparkle and glamour. This is another timeless and very popular style.  ​

Shop Sidestone Rings

​Halo Lab-Created Diamond Rings ​

Halo engagement rings feature a tiny circle of diamonds surrounding your choice of center stone. This creates the appearance of a larger diamond, while also adding more sparkle and brilliance to your ring. Halo engagement rings are one of the most sought-after styles.  

Shop Halo Rings 

Three-Stone Lab-Created Diamond Rings 

This classic style features two diamonds flanking the center stone. This creates a balanced look that represents your past, present, and future together.  

Shop Three-Stone Rings 

Vintage-Inspired Lab Created Diamond Rings  

Vintage-inspired rings combine old-world charm with modern diamond cutting techniques. If you are looking for a one-of-a-kind ring, go with a vintage one. Many vintage-inspired rings are incredibly unique and eye-catching.  

Shop Vintage Rings 

We can also create custom rings using lab-created diamonds. Click here to get started on your custom lab-created diamond ring. 

Best Lab-Created Diamonds 

With over 50,000 certified, high-quality lab diamonds to choose from, Ritani is the best place to find a lab-created diamond. You can design lab-created earrings or a pendant or add your dream diamond to a ring. Our non-commissioned gemologists are available to help you choose the right diamond – contact us today!