Frequently Asked Questions
We understand that choosing a lab grown diamond may raise questions. At LabGrownDiamonds.com, we’re here to provide clear, expert answers so you can shop with confidence.
Lab Grown Diamonds
A lab grown diamond is a real diamond created using advanced technology in a controlled environment. It is chemically, physically, and visually identical to a mined diamond. The only difference is their origin: one takes weeks or months to form using advanced technology in a controlled environment, while the other takes billions of years beneath the Earth's surface.
Yes. Lab grown diamonds are 100% real diamonds with the same sparkle, hardness, and durability as mined diamonds. Diamonds, whether mined or lab grown, are simply carbon atoms arranged in a crystal structure, then cut and polished into their brilliant shape. Lab grown diamonds are professionally graded by the same reputable gemological labs that grade mined diamonds.
There are two main methods:
- HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature): Simulates the extreme heat and pressure found deep underground.
A diamond seed is placed in a chamber and exposed to over 1600°C and intense pressure, causing carbon atoms to bond and grow into a diamond crystal. - CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition): Grows diamonds layer by layer from a carbon-rich gas.
A diamond seed is placed in a vacuum chamber filled with carbon-rich gases. With high heat and ionized gases, carbon atoms slowly layer onto the seed, growing the diamond crystal over time.
Both methods produce gem-quality diamonds that are visually identical to natural diamonds.
Yes! Lab grown diamonds test as real diamonds because they have the same chemical and physical properties as mined diamonds. Standard diamond testers that measure thermal and electrical conductivity will accurately detect them as real diamonds.
Visually, no—even by trained jewelers. Lab grown diamonds are identical to mined diamonds to the naked eye and even under magnification. While standard diamond testers that measure thermal conductivity cannot distinguish between the two, advanced gemological tools that measure spectroscopy and photoluminescence can identify characteristics that suggest it may be lab-grown.
The most reliable method to tell the difference is a grading report from a trusted gemological institute, which uses advanced techniques to determine a diamond's origin. Grading reports will clearly indicate whether the diamond is man-made. Graded diamonds will also have a laser-inscribed serial number on the girdle that is visible under magnification. Lab grown diamonds will have the term "Laboratory-Grown" or the letters "LG" preceding the report number.
Yes. All of our loose lab grown diamonds and most lab grown diamond jewelry with diamonds measuring 1 carat and above are certified by leading gemological laboratories such as GIA and IGI, just like mined diamonds, to ensure quality, authenticity, and transparency.
Yes. Lab grown diamonds cost significantly less than comparable mined diamonds. This allows you to get a larger and higher-quality stone for the same or often lower budget. The larger the diamond, the bigger the difference in cost—as much as 98%!
Absolutely. Lab grown diamonds are an eco-friendly alternative to mined diamonds. They require fewer resources, reduce environmental impact, and avoid the social and ethical concerns associated with traditional mining.
We'll be honest: no diamond is a "good investment."
However, lab grown diamonds offer exceptional value and quality. While mined diamonds may "hold" a bit more of their value, they still lose significant resale value—typically at least 50% of what you paid. When you do the math, lab grown diamonds offer significant savings—no matter how you look at it.
Fine jewelry is meant to be enjoyed, not purchased as a financial investment. Lab grown diamonds provide a modern, ethical, and stunning choice for engagement rings, fine jewelry, and special occasions while providing the flexibility to invest in your life, your home, or your future.
Lab grown diamonds are just as durable as mined diamonds (10 on the Mohs scale). You can clean them with warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft toothbrush, or with professional jewelry cleaning solutions. Make sure to rinse and dry them thoroughly.
To maintain your lab grown diamond jewelry, avoid exposure to harsh chemicals and high-impact activities, and remove jewelry before applying products like lotions and sunscreen.
We specialize in premium lab grown diamonds, expert guidance, and transparent education. Our mission is to help you find the perfect diamond that fits your style, budget, and values.
Orders & Shipping
Most items are made-to-order and ship after approximately 3-4 weeks. Some jewelry such as stud earrings may be available more quickly and can often ship within 5-7 business days.
Please Contact Us if you would like to confirm the availability or lead time for a specific item.
You can view our full shipping policies here: Shipping Policy
Insured and expedited shipping is free for all U.S. orders. We offer free 2-Day shipping for all orders, and Overnight shipping is free for orders over $1,500.
Once your order is ready to ship, it will ship via UPS or FedEx and you will receive an email confirmation with the tracking number. All packages are insured and sent by Express 1 or 2-day delivery, with an adult signature required.
Yes — an adult signature is required upon delivery. Please ensure someone is available at the delivery address to sign for the package.
No. We can only ship to a physical home or business address. We do not ship to PO Box addresses. At this time, we’re unable to ship internationally.
If you have special delivery instructions, need an item by a specific date, or have questions regarding shipping, you can contact us at hello@labgrowndiamonds.com.
Returns & Exchanges
We offer free returns within 30 days of delivery for eligible items, provided they’re in original, unworn condition with tags/labels and original documentation.
You can view our full return policy here: Return & Refund Policy
Contact us at hello@labgrowndiamonds.com within 30 days of delivery to initiate a return. We will provide a prepaid return label and instructions for insured shipping.
We provide a prepaid label for insured shipping when you initiate a proper return. However, if you drop off incorrectly, use the wrong carrier, or alter the label, you may void eligibility for the return.
Yes — if the diamond paperwork or packaging is missing, there’s a $75 restocking fee. Also, items that have been resized, exchanged, customized, or previously altered are considered final sale and are not eligible for return.
After we receive and inspect the returned item, we’ll process your refund within 5-7 business days to your original payment method. For credit cards, allow up to one billing cycle for the credit to appear.
Yes — if you ordered an engagement ring or wedding band and it doesn’t fit, we’ll resize for free within one year of purchase and within 1.5 sizes up or down.
Eternity‐style bands cannot be resized. Please contact us within the return and exchange window if you need to re-order a new size.
Items that have been worn, are outside the return window, or have been exchanged/resized/customized must be handled as an exchange on a case-by-case basis — please contact hello@labgrowndiamonds.com for assistance.
All of our jewelry is covered by our 180-day warranty, which protects against manufacturing defects and workmanship issues.
You can review the full warranty details here: Warranty