Blogs

Lab-grown diamonds are changing the way people think about engagement rings and fine jewelry. These stunning stones offer all the brilliance, durability, and emotional impact of natural diamonds — with the added benefits of accessibility, sustainability, and transparency. At Adam Foster Fine Jewelry, we offer a wide variety of high-quality laboratory-grown diamonds in both classic and unique shapes, ideal for everything from timeless solitaires to more unconventional designs. If you’re considering a lab-grown diamond for your engagement ring or custom piece, this guide will help you understand the process, benefits, and how they compare to their natural counterparts. What Are Lab-Grown Diamonds? Also known as man-made diamonds, synthetic diamonds, or cultured diamonds, lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds that are created in a laboratory environment rather than mined from the earth. Unlike diamond simulants such as moissanite or cubic zirconia, lab-grown diamonds share the same physical properties, chemical composition, and crystal structure as natural diamonds. Lab-created diamonds are formed using two main methods: CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition): In this method, a diamond seed (a sliver of pure carbon) is placed in a chamber filled with carbon-rich gas. Using heat and energy, carbon atoms adhere to the seed layer by layer, forming a diamond crystal. HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature): This mimics the pressure and temperature conditions found in the earth’s mantle, producing a rough diamond under controlled environment conditions.   Both methods create diamonds that are chemically and optically identical to mined diamonds, with no differences detectable to the naked eye. Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Real Diamonds? Yes, lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and leading gemological institutes like the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and International Gemological Institute (IGI), lab-created diamonds are indistinguishable from their natural counterparts in terms of composition and durability. They are graded on the same scale and criteria as mined diamonds: cut, color, clarity (which may include natural inclusions), and carat weight. Every lab-grown diamond we carry is hand-selected by our expert gemologists and comes with a diamond certification for complete confidence in quality. Benefits of Lab-Grown Diamonds Choosing a lab-grown diamond means choosing a forward-thinking and ethical approach to diamond jewelry. Some of the most popular reasons our clients choose laboratory-grown diamonds include: Sustainability: Lab diamonds are created using renewable energy and reduce the environmental impact associated with traditional diamond mining. Accessibility: You can often get a larger carat weight or higher quality diamond for the same price point as a smaller natural diamond. Conflict-Free: Lab diamonds offer peace of mind in knowing your stone is responsibly sourced and ethically created. Beauty & Durability: Lab diamonds rank a 10 on the Mohs scale, just like natural diamonds, offering superior durability and brilliance for daily wear.   Lab Grown vs. Natural Diamonds When it comes to choosing between lab-grown diamonds and natural diamonds, there’s no right or wrong answer — just what feels right for you. Lab Grown Diamonds: Created in a controlled laboratory environment Chemically identical to natural diamonds Typically more affordable per carat Widely available in most diamond shapes and ring settings Natural Diamonds: Formed over millions of years in the earth’s mantle May carry historical or geological significance Often preferred for heirloom or legacy pieces We invite you to explore both options in-store with one of our trusted jewelers, who will help you compare side-by-side and select a stone that fits your values, your budget, and your vision. FAQs About Lab Grown Diamonds Are lab-grown diamonds good for engagement rings?Yes. Lab-grown diamond engagement rings are a beautiful, high-quality choice that offers lasting brilliance and strength. Do lab-created diamonds have inclusions?Yes. Like natural diamonds, lab diamonds can contain natural inclusions and are graded accordingly. Are lab-grown diamonds certified?Absolutely. We only carry diamonds certified by reputable institutions such as GIA and IGI. What’s the difference between a lab diamond and moissanite?Moissanite is a diamond simulant with different chemical and optical properties. It may appear similar to the naked eye, but it is not a diamond. Do lab-grown diamonds come in different shapes and sizes?Yes. We offer lab diamonds in every popular shape — round brilliant, emerald cut, princess cut, marquise, and more. Can I design a custom ring using a lab diamond?Absolutely. You can create a custom engagement ring with any lab-grown diamond from our collection. What kind of metals can I pair with a lab diamond?Choose from white gold, yellow gold, rose gold, or platinum for your lab diamond setting. Do lab-grown diamonds come with a warranty?Yes. All of our diamonds, including lab-created ones, are backed by our full warranty. Let’s Find the Diamond That’s Right for You Still have questions? Come visit our St. Louis showroom and explore our curated collection of lab-grown diamonds and natural stones. Whether you’re shopping for an engagement ring, a meaningful piece of jewelry, or building a custom design from scratch, we’re here to guide you. Book a consultation with one of our jewelers and experience the beauty of diamonds — created with intention. Contact us today.