Jeweler selecting loose lab-grown diamonds with tweezers beside grading tools, representing J'ENCHANTE's diamond education and selection standards.

DIAMOND EDUCATION

Lab-Grown Diamond Guide

Understand how lab-grown diamonds are created, how they are graded, and what to consider when choosing a diamond for fine jewelry.

What Is a Lab-Grown Diamond?

A lab-grown diamond is a diamond created in a controlled laboratory environment using advanced growth technology.

It has essentially the same chemical composition, crystal structure, hardness and optical properties as a natural diamond. The defining difference is origin: one is grown in a laboratory environment, while the other forms naturally within the Earth.

Lab-grown diamonds are not moissanite or cubic zirconia. Those materials may resemble diamonds, but they have different chemical and physical properties.

How Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Created?

Lab-grown diamonds are produced using one of two established methods. Both begin with a diamond seed and form a crystal made of carbon.

HPHT

High Pressure High Temperature

A small diamond seed is exposed to controlled high pressure and high temperature. Carbon crystallizes around the seed, gradually forming a rough diamond.
Conceptual visual of a diamond forming under high pressure and high temperature, representing the HPHT method used to create lab-grown diamonds.
Conceptual visual of a diamond growing through layered light and vapor, representing the CVD method used to create lab-grown diamonds.

CVD

Chemical Vapor Deposition

A diamond seed is placed inside a chamber filled with carbon-rich gas. Activated carbon settles onto the seed, building the diamond crystal layer by layer.

How Are Diamonds Graded?

Lab-grown diamonds are not all alike. Their grading characteristics and visual appearance can vary, which is why each diamond should be considered through the 4Cs: cut, color, clarity and carat weight.
Round diamond viewed from above, representing diamond cut, proportions, symmetry, polish, and light performance.

Cut

The precision of a diamond’s proportions, symmetry and polish, and how effectively its facets interact with light.
Row of round diamonds showing subtle color differences, representing how diamond color is evaluated under controlled grading conditions.

Color

The degree to which a diamond appears colorless when viewed under controlled grading conditions.
Close-up round diamond visual representing clarity and the assessment of internal and surface characteristics.

Clarity

The presence, size and position of internal characteristics and surface features.
Two round diamonds of different sizes, representing carat weight as a measurement of diamond weight.

Carat Weight

A measurement of the diamond’s weight. Carat weight does not describe visible size or beauty on its own.

Understanding an IGI Diamond Report

An independent grading report helps identify a diamond’s laboratory-grown origin and records its measurable grading characteristics.

An IGI Laboratory Grown Diamond Report may include the diamond’s shape, measurements, carat weight, color, clarity, cut information and other identifying details.

At J'ENCHANTE, IGI documentation is provided where stated on the relevant product page. When a report number is laser-inscribed on the diamond’s girdle, it can be matched with the report for independent verification.
IGI laboratory-grown diamond report displayed on a light background, representing independent grading and certification for lab-grown diamonds.
Jeweler holding a round diamond with tweezers beside a loupe and loose diamonds, showing careful selection for cut, light return, and visual balance.

What J'ENCHANTE Looks For

A grading report is an important starting point, but it does not tell the complete visual story of a diamond.

At J'ENCHANTE, we consider how each diamond performs in real light, how its proportions support brightness, and how naturally it works within the finished design.

Cut and Light
We prioritize balanced proportions and precise finishing that support brightness, fire and visual definition.

Visual Balance
Color and clarity are considered in relation to the diamond’s shape, size and intended setting.

Design Compatibility
Each diamond is selected not only as an individual stone, but also for how it complements the proportions and character of the jewel.

Final Inspection
The completed piece is reviewed for stone security, alignment, finish and finished appearance.

The result is lab-grown diamond jewelry considered as a complete design — not chosen by certificate grade alone.

FAQ

Are lab-grown diamonds real diamonds?

Yes. Lab-grown diamonds have essentially the same chemical composition, crystal structure, hardness and optical properties as natural diamonds. Their defining difference is where and how they are formed.
Can you tell a lab-grown diamond from a mined diamond by looking at it?

Usually not with the unaided eye. Gemological laboratories use specialized instruments and analysis to determine a diamond’s growth origin.
Are lab-grown diamonds the same as moissanite?

No. A lab-grown diamond is crystalline carbon. Moissanite is a different gemstone material with different optical and physical properties.
Are lab-grown diamonds graded using the 4Cs?

Yes. IGI Laboratory Grown Diamond Reports document the 4Cs — cut, color, clarity and carat weight — along with identifying measurements and laboratory-grown origin.
Do lab-grown diamonds last?

Yes. Lab-grown diamonds have a Mohs hardness of 10 and are suitable for fine jewelry designed to be worn over time. As with all jewelry, the metal setting and the piece as a whole should still be worn and cared for properly.
Do lab-grown diamonds lose their sparkle?

The diamond itself does not become cloudy over time. Everyday oils, lotions and residue can temporarily affect its appearance, which is why regular gentle cleaning is recommended.

Read Our Jewelry Care Guide→
How can I verify an IGI report?

Enter the report number on IGI’s official report-verification service and compare the listed information with the documentation supplied with the jewelry.

Choose with Clarity

Explore J'ENCHANTE lab-grown diamond jewelry crafted in 18K gold, or speak with us about a bespoke piece designed around your diamond preference, setting and occasion.

 Explore Jewelry Book a Bespoke Consultation →