The Basics: What Are Lab-Grown Diamonds?
Lab-grown diamonds (also called lab-created, synthetic, or man-made diamonds) are produced in controlled laboratory environments using one of two processes:
- HPHT (High Pressure, High Temperature) — Replicates the natural conditions deep in the earth. A carbon seed crystal is exposed to extreme pressure (~60,000 atmospheres) and heat (~1400°C) until diamond crystals grow.
- CVD (Chemical Vapour Deposition) — A carbon-rich gas (usually methane) is introduced into a chamber with a diamond seed. The gas breaks down and carbon atoms deposit layer by layer, growing a diamond crystal.
Both methods produce genuine diamond — pure carbon in a cubic crystal structure with a Mohs hardness of 10.
Are They Identical to Natural Diamonds?
Chemically and physically: yes. A gemologist examining a polished lab-grown diamond cannot distinguish it from natural without specialised equipment. Both display the same fire, brilliance, and scintillation. Both are graded on the same 4Cs scale by GIA and IGI.
The only differences are:
- Origin: billions of years in the earth vs. weeks in a lab.
- Price: lab-grown is 50–70% cheaper per carat.
- Resale value: natural diamonds retain value better historically.
- Rarity: natural diamonds are finite; lab capacity grows every year.
Who Should Buy Lab-Grown?
Lab-grown diamonds are ideal if you want the largest, highest-quality stone for your budget. A couple with $5,000 AUD can buy a stunning 1.5 ct E VS1 Excellent lab-grown — a stone that would cost $18,000+ natural. The visual impact is identical.
Who Should Buy Natural?
Natural diamonds are ideal if rarity, provenance, and long-term value retention matter to you. A natural diamond is billions of years old — a tangible piece of geological history. For heirloom pieces intended to pass down generations, natural is the emotionally richer choice.
Avelyngold's Approach
We carry both, clearly labelled. Every lab-grown diamond in our catalogue is IGI-certified, with the origin laser-inscribed on the girdle. Every natural diamond is GIA or IGI certified and Kimberley Process compliant. We don't prefer one over the other — we help you choose what's right for you.