Before you choose
Two origins. A personal choice.
Start with origin, then look closely at the individual stone and its documentation. The label is one part of the decision.
Read the guide
Both are diamonds. Their origins differ.
Natural and laboratory-grown diamonds have essentially the same chemical composition, physical properties and optical properties. The distinction is how they form.
- Natural
- Forms within the Earth through natural geological processes.
- Laboratory-grown
- Grows in a controlled environment. Common methods are high pressure, high temperature (HPHT) and chemical vapor deposition (CVD).
Appearance does not establish origin
Laboratory-grown diamonds have identifiable growth characteristics, but separating them reliably from natural diamonds requires specialist testing. A photograph or a casual look cannot establish origin.
Ask for clear origin information and any available laboratory documentation for the individual stone. Keep the report and the product details together when comparing options.
Read the report in front of you
GIA’s current Laboratory-Grown Diamond Quality Assessment uses Premium and Standard classifications. That service covers loose, colorless to near-colorless laboratory-grown diamonds weighing at least 0.15 carat. GIA lists separate services for laboratory-grown colored diamonds.
Check the issuing laboratory, report type and date before comparing terminology. Do not assume a laboratory-grown assessment uses the same format as a natural-diamond grading report. Ask for clarification if a listing and its report appear to disagree.
Make the comparison yours
Write down what matters to you before comparing two pieces.
- Confirm the stated origin and any disclosed treatments.
- Compare the actual measurements, appearance, setting and documentation.
- Check the current price, care requirements and applicable return terms.
- If an environmental or sourcing claim matters to your choice, ask for evidence specific to that claim and piece.
Sources reviewed . General education; check the details and care instructions for your individual piece.