You've started searching for the perfect diamond. Maybe it's for an engagement ring, a milestone gift, or simply a piece of jewellery you want to treasure forever. And somewhere in your research, you've encountered two options that look remarkably similar but seem to divide opinion: lab-grown diamonds and natural diamonds.
At AkshR Diamonds, we work exclusively with lab-grown diamonds, not because it's a trend, but because we believe it represents the future of fine jewellery: ethical, stunning, and exceptional value. But we also believe you deserve a completely honest comparison so you can make the right choice for yourself.
What Are Lab-Grown Diamonds?
Lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds. The GIA and IGI both classify them as diamonds, not simulants or substitutes. They are created using one of two processes:
- High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) — mimics the immense heat and pressure deep within the Earth's mantle.
- Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD) — uses a carbon-rich gas to grow diamond crystals layer by layer on a seed.
The result is a diamond that is chemically, physically, and optically identical to a mined stone. Same carbon composition. Same crystal structure. Same fire, brilliance, and scintillation. You can read more on our Lab-Grown Diamond Education page.
Are Lab-Grown Diamonds 'Real' Diamonds?
Yes. Unequivocally. A lab-grown diamond has the same hardness (Mohs 10), the same refractive index, and the same optical properties as a mined diamond. Even professional gemologists cannot tell the difference with the naked eye.
The 4 Cs: How Do They Compare?
Both are graded using the 4 Cs: Cut, Colour, Clarity, and Carat. Lab-grown diamonds can achieve top grades across all four, and because the growth environment is controlled, it's often possible to produce fewer inclusions at a given size.
Price: The Most Significant Difference
Lab-grown diamonds are typically 60–80% more affordable than comparable mined stones. This means for the same budget, you can choose a significantly larger or higher-quality stone, and set it in a beautifully crafted ring, pair of earrings, or pendant that would otherwise be out of reach.
Sustainability and Ethics
Diamond mining carries significant environmental costs, land disruption, carbon emissions, and water usage. Lab-grown diamonds require no excavation. All AkshR diamonds are IGI or GIA certified, ensuring full traceability.
Do Lab-Grown Diamonds Hold Their Value?
Honestly: neither lab-grown nor natural diamonds are sound financial investments, natural diamonds resell at 20–50% of retail price too. If you're buying for beauty and emotional significance, the case for lab-grown is compelling. AkshR Diamonds also offers an assured buy-back programme after 12 months.
Which Should You Choose?
- If the geological origin and rarity of a natural diamond are deeply important to you, choose natural.
- If you value exceptional quality, a larger stone for your budget, and certified ethical sourcing — explore our lab-grown collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are lab-grown diamonds real diamonds?
Yes, chemically, physically, and optically identical to mined diamonds.
Can a jeweller tell if a diamond is lab-grown?
Not with the naked eye. Specialised equipment is required.
Are lab-grown diamonds cheaper?
Yes, typically 60–80% less for comparable quality.
Do lab-grown diamonds hold their value?
Limited resale value, as with natural diamonds. AkshR offers a buy-back programme after 12 months from date of purchase.
