If you’re looking to buy lab grown diamonds but wondering how they compare to man made diamonds, you’re not alone. In fact, many shoppers use these terms interchangeably without realizing there are subtle distinctions—or more often, simply that both refer to the same incredible alternative to mined diamonds. Whether you want a sustainable engagement ring or a stunning piece of everyday jewelry, understanding the value and appeal of man made diamonds can help you make a better choice when you’re ready to buy lab grown diamonds.
What Are Lab Grown Diamonds?
Lab grown diamonds, also referred to as man made diamonds, are created in a laboratory environment using high-tech processes that mimic how natural diamonds are formed in the Earth’s mantle. These diamonds are real diamonds—not simulants like cubic zirconia or moissanite.
Two Main Creation Methods:
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HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature) – replicates natural diamond-growing conditions.
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CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition) – uses a carbon-rich gas to form diamond layers.
These processes produce diamonds with the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as mined diamonds. So, when you buy lab grown diamonds, you’re getting the brilliance, durability, and fire you’d expect from any traditional diamond.
Are Lab Grown Diamonds and Man Made Diamonds the Same?
Yes, essentially. The terms lab grown diamonds and man made diamonds are used interchangeably in the jewelry industry. Both describe diamonds created in controlled laboratory environments rather than mined from the earth. However, marketing preferences can influence which term is used more often:
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“Lab grown” sounds more scientific and precise.
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“Man made” emphasizes the human innovation behind them.
No matter which term you prefer, when you buy lab grown diamonds, you’re investing in a product that’s both ethically sourced and environmentally conscious.
Why More People Are Choosing to Buy Lab Grown Diamonds
The trend toward ethical consumerism is undeniable. Modern buyers are more informed and more concerned about the origins of their luxury goods. Here’s why lab grown diamonds are taking center stage:
1. Ethical Sourcing
When you buy lab grown diamonds, you eliminate the risk of contributing to conflict diamond trade. There are no concerns about labor exploitation or unsafe working conditions commonly associated with some mining operations.
2. Environmental Impact
Mining requires blasting, digging, and processing that can destroy ecosystems. In contrast, man made diamonds require far fewer natural resources and produce significantly less environmental damage.
3. Lower Cost, Higher Quality
You can often buy lab grown diamonds for 30–50% less than a mined diamond of similar quality. That price difference can mean a bigger, clearer, or higher-grade diamond for your budget.
4. Greater Availability
Since man made diamonds are not dependent on natural geological availability, there’s a larger and more consistent supply, including rare cuts and colors.
How to Choose the Best Lab Grown Diamonds
When you’re ready to buy lab grown diamonds, you should apply the same criteria as you would for natural diamonds:
The 4Cs:
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Cut – Impacts how well the diamond reflects light.
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Color – Grades range from D (colorless) to Z (light color).
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Clarity – Measures internal flaws (inclusions) and external marks (blemishes).
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Carat – The diamond’s weight and size.
Many man made diamonds achieve higher clarity ratings because they’re grown under controlled conditions.
Certification
Always make sure your lab grown diamonds come with a certification from a reputable gemological institute, such as:
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GIA (Gemological Institute of America)
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IGI (International Gemological Institute)
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GCAL (Gem Certification and Assurance Lab)
These reports provide transparency and confidence in your purchase.
Settings and Styles: How to Showcase Man Made Diamonds
When you buy lab grown diamonds, you’re not limited in how you can use them. From classic solitaires to elaborate halo rings and tennis bracelets, man made diamonds are as versatile as they are beautiful.
Popular Styles:
| Jewelry Type | Why It Works with Lab Grown Diamonds |
|---|---|
| Engagement Rings | Ethical and customizable |
| Wedding Bands | Perfect for matching sustainability-conscious couples |
| Stud Earrings | Affordable and brilliant for daily wear |
| Tennis Bracelets | Get a luxe look without the mined diamond price tag |
| Pendants | Ideal for gifting with personal meaning |
Thanks to their lower price point, lab grown diamonds allow shoppers to explore bigger stones or more intricate settings without breaking the bank.
Lab Grown Diamonds for Investment?
While traditional diamonds have long been seen as a store of value, the resale market for man made diamonds is still evolving. That said, many buyers now prioritize personal value and symbolism over resale potential.
If your main focus is sentimental or aesthetic, there’s no reason not to buy lab grown diamonds. However, if investment is a primary goal, talk with jewelers about resale trends and certified value assessments.
Where to Buy Lab Grown Diamonds
Thanks to their growing popularity, you can now find lab grown diamonds at many established jewelers and online retailers. Here are some trusted names to start with:
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Brilliant Earth – Excellent selection of ethically sourced man made diamonds.
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James Allen – Allows 360° views of each stone before purchase.
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Clean Origin – Specializes solely in lab-grown stones.
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VRAI – Offers traceable diamonds produced using renewable energy.
Always compare multiple options and review certifications before deciding where to buy lab grown diamonds.
Common Myths About Man Made Diamonds
“They’re not real diamonds.”
False. Man made diamonds are real diamonds. They have the same carbon structure, hardness, and brilliance as mined diamonds.
“They’re lower quality.”
Incorrect. In fact, because they’re created in controlled settings, many lab grown diamonds have fewer inclusions and more consistent color.
“They won’t last as long.”
Not true. A man made diamond has the same 10/10 rating on the Mohs scale of hardness as a natural diamond. It’s just as durable.
Final Thoughts: Smart, Stylish, and Sustainable
Choosing to buy lab grown diamonds is about more than just style—it’s a commitment to ethical and sustainable luxury. Man made diamonds offer all the sparkle and significance of their mined counterparts, without the guilt or environmental toll.
Whether you’re buying an engagement ring, a memorable gift, or a personal treat, lab grown diamonds are the future of fine jewelry—affordable, accessible, and absolutely stunning.
