The Truth about Lab Grown Diamonds
At Polished Diamonds – Jewellery Design, we believe in honesty, quality craftsmanship, and sharing knowledge to help you make the right decision, especially when it comes to something as meaningful as a diamond engagement ring. With the increasing popularity of lab-grown diamonds, we feel it’s important to provide clear, balanced, and helpful information to guide you through the decision-making process.
Whether you’re about to propose, upgrade a piece, or simply curious, here’s what you need to know about the differences between mined and man-made diamonds, what’s real, what’s not, and how to choose the perfect stone for your values and budget.
Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Real?
Yes! Diamonds produced in laboratories are 100% real diamonds.
They’re identical to natural diamonds in terms of chemical structure, physical properties, and appearance. The only real difference is their origin. Natural diamonds are formed deep beneath the Earth’s surface over billions of years, while their lab-made counterparts are created in high-tech environments using either High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) or Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD) processes. These methods replicate the natural diamond-growing environment in a matter of weeks.
Think of it like this: ice made in your freezer is still real ice, even though it didn’t come from a glacier. The same goes for these diamonds. Whether grown underground or above, they have the same hardness, brilliance, and structure. Pretty amazing, right?
Additionally, every laboratory-created diamond is laser inscribed and disclosed as such to ensure complete transparency for consumers.
Are Lab-Created Diamonds More Ethical or Sustainable?
This is one of the most frequently asked questions—and the answer isn’t as straightforward as it may seem.
Many people assume that a diamond made in a lab is automatically better for the planet or more ethical than one that’s mined. While it’s true that these diamonds don’t require traditional mining, producing them still requires substantial energy. The temperatures needed can exceed 1,500°C, and the process to grow a single one-carat stone can take several weeks. In many cases, the facilities used to grow these diamonds are powered by fossil fuels, particularly in countries where renewable energy is not widely used.
On the other hand, the natural diamond industry has evolved significantly. Modern mining is now tightly regulated, and ethical practices are enforced through international frameworks like the Kimberley Process, which ensures that over 99% of natural diamonds are conflict-free. Many mining operations also commit to rehabilitating land post-extraction, converting old sites into lakes, parks, and wildlife habitats.
So, while lab-created diamonds skip the mining process, their environmental impact varies depending on how and where they’re produced. It’s not a one-size-fits-all answer, and it’s important to research the origin of your diamond, whether natural or man-made.
What About Resale and Long-Term Value?
This is a big consideration for many clients.
Natural diamonds have a long history of retaining or even appreciating in value over time. Their rarity and enduring demand contribute to this. In contrast, the resale market for man-made diamonds is still developing. As production technology continues to improve and become more widespread, prices for new stones are likely to fall.
That doesn’t mean these diamonds aren’t worth considering. Most people buying engagement rings aren’t doing so as an investment; they’re purchasing a meaningful, personal item to celebrate love. In that context, a beautifully cut, lab-created diamond can offer outstanding value for money, especially if your goal is to maximise size or quality within a set budget.
At Polished Diamonds, all our diamonds—whether natural or man-made—are certified by internationally recognised laboratories like the GIA (Gemological Institute of America) or IGI (International Gemological Institute). Every stone comes with detailed grading documentation for peace of mind.
Why Choose Polished Diamonds?
We’re passionate about helping our clients make informed decisions they’ll feel confident in for years to come. When you choose us, you’ll experience:
- Genuine, pressure-free advice from experts who care
- Full transparency and certification for every diamond we offer
- Custom-made rings designed around your unique style and budget
- The ability to view and approve your diamond before it’s set
- Personalised service, whether you visit us in Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, or shop with us online
We don’t just sell diamonds, we craft heirlooms, built with precision in our dedicated New Zealand workshop.
Final Thoughts
Diamonds grown in a lab offer real sparkle, eye-catching brilliance, and an attractive price point. They’re an excellent option for many couples, but they’re not inherently more ethical or eco-friendly than their natural counterparts. Like most meaningful decisions, the “right” answer depends on your values, priorities, and budget.
Our advice? Don’t choose based on trends or assumptions; choose what aligns with you.
Whether you’re leaning toward a timeless natural stone or a modern lab-created option, Polished Diamonds Jewellery Design is here to provide honest guidance, exceptional quality, and a stunning finished piece you’ll cherish forever.
Ready to start your journey? Contact us today or visit one of our showrooms. Let’s find the perfect diamond for your perfect moment.
