What Sets Natural Diamonds Apart from Lab-Grown Diamonds?

While both natural and lab-grown diamonds share the same chemical makeup, they have distinct differences. Natural diamonds form deep within the Earth over one to three billion years under extreme pressure, while lab-grown diamonds are created in weeks through human-made processes. These differences can be detected at the atomic level, with specialised equipment used to distinguish between the two. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) notes that trained staff can easily tell them apart using advanced technology.

Lab-grown diamond CVD reactor

Labelling of Diamonds

When the word "diamond" is used without qualification, it refers to a natural diamond. Lab-grown diamonds, however, must be clearly labeled with terms like "laboratory-grown," "laboratory-created," or the manufacturer’s name. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) mandates that these disclosures be obvious and not buried in fine print, ensuring consumers understand exactly what they're purchasing.

Natural Rough Diamond

Maintaining Separation in the Supply Chain

The jewelry industry has developed robust systems to keep natural and lab-grown diamonds separate throughout the supply chain. Companies use tamper-proof packaging, Diamond Verification Instruments, and separate facilities to prevent cross-contamination.

Testing for Assurance

Advanced labs such as GIA, IGI, and HRD are equipped to identify whether a diamond is natural or lab-grown, using sophisticated equipment to test diamonds throughout the supply chain. The inclusion of laser inscriptions and different-coloured reports for lab-grown diamonds adds an extra layer of security to prevent misidentification.

Growth markings in a lab-grown diamond

Key Takeaways:

• Lab-grown and natural diamonds are chemically identical but differ in their formation process and testing methods.

  
  

• The jewelry industry has stringent processes to keep natural and lab-grown diamonds separated and verified throughout the supply chain.

  
  

• Always ask about a diamond's origin and certification when making a purchase to ensure transparency.