Lab-Grown Diamonds vs Simulated Diamonds: Key Differences Explained

When it comes to choosing the perfect diamond, many people are faced with a modern dilemma: lab-grown diamonds vs simulated diamonds. Both offer an affordable and ethical alternative to natural diamonds, but they are fundamentally different in several ways.

In short: Lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds — pure crystallized carbon with Mohs 10 hardness, identical to mined. Simulated diamonds (cubic zirconia, moissanite, white sapphire) are different materials that LOOK like diamonds: cubic zirconia is Mohs 8 (scratches easily), moissanite is Mohs 9.25 (shows rainbow flash). Only lab-grown is genuinely diamond.

In this article, we'll explore the key differences between lab-grown diamonds and simulated diamonds, helping you understand what makes each unique and which might be the right choice for your jewellery needs.

What Are Lab-Grown Diamonds?

Lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds that are created in a laboratory using advanced technology. Unlike natural diamonds, which form over millions of years deep within the Earth, lab-grown diamonds are produced in controlled environments in a matter of weeks.

The two most common methods used to create these diamonds are Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD) and High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT). Both processes mimic the conditions under which natural diamonds are formed, resulting in diamonds that are chemically, physically, and optically identical to mined diamonds.

Lab-grown diamonds are made entirely of carbon, just like their natural counterparts. This means they have the same hardness, brilliance, and sparkle that people associate with a traditional diamond. In fact, most jewellers and even experts cannot distinguish lab-grown diamonds from natural diamonds without specialised equipment. If you’re interested in browsing lab-grown options, you might want to check out lab-grown diamonds for more information.

What Are Simulated Diamonds?

Simulated diamonds, on the other hand, are not real diamonds. They are materials that are designed to look like diamonds but are made from different substances. Popular types of simulated diamonds include cubic zirconia (CZ) and moissanite, though there are others like glass and synthetic gemstones.

While simulated diamonds can have a striking resemblance to real diamonds at first glance, they do not share the same chemical composition or physical properties. For example, cubic zirconia is made from zirconium dioxide, while moissanite is composed of silicon carbide. These materials are much less expensive to produce than both natural and lab-grown diamonds, which is reflected in their cost.

Simulated diamonds are an excellent option for those looking for an affordable alternative to real diamonds, especially for fashion jewellery or pieces that won’t be worn every day. If you're considering unique styles, you may also want to check out fancy coloured diamonds, which offer stunning alternatives in a range of colours.

Visual Differences Between Lab-Grown and Simulated Diamonds

Visually, lab-grown diamonds and simulated diamonds can both look like natural diamonds, but there are subtle differences that become more apparent under closer inspection.

Lab-grown diamonds have the same optical properties as natural diamonds, meaning they reflect light in the same way, offering the same fire, brilliance, and sparkle. Simulated diamonds, however, do not have the same light performance. For instance, cubic zirconia may appear glassy, and moissanite often has more fire (the colourful flashes of light) than a natural or lab-grown diamond.

While simulated diamonds can look convincing to the untrained eye, an expert or jeweller can often tell the difference based on these subtle distinctions in brilliance and sparkle. To explore more on lab-grown diamond shapes, check out round lab-grown diamonds or other cuts like princess and oval.

Chemical and Physical Properties

One of the most significant differences between lab-grown and simulated diamonds lies in their chemical and physical properties.

Lab-grown diamonds are pure carbon, identical to natural diamonds. As a result, they have the same hardness of 10 on the Mohs scale, making them incredibly durable and resistant to scratches. They are the hardest known material on Earth, which is why diamonds are so valued for engagement rings and other fine jewellery.

Simulated diamonds, such as cubic zirconia and moissanite, are much softer. Cubic zirconia, for example, ranks at about 8-8.5 on the Mohs scale, meaning it is more prone to scratches and wear over time. Moissanite is harder, with a rating of 9.25, but it still doesn’t match the durability of a lab-grown diamond.

In terms of overall longevity, lab-grown diamonds are a far better investment for daily wear pieces like engagement rings, whereas simulated diamonds might be more suitable for occasional or fashion jewellery. If durability is a priority for you, consider exploring options like emerald lab-grown diamonds or marquise cuts for something unique.

Price Comparison

When it comes to price, there is a significant difference between lab-grown diamonds and simulated diamonds.

Lab-grown diamonds are more affordable than natural diamonds but are still a considerable investment. Depending on the size, cut, and quality, lab-grown diamonds can cost between 20-40% less than natural diamonds. This makes them an attractive option for those looking for a high-quality, ethical diamond without the hefty price tag of a mined diamond. If you’re looking for a wholesale option, you may want to check out diamond dealer options.

Simulated diamonds, on the other hand, are much more budget-friendly. Materials like cubic zirconia and moissanite are produced at a fraction of the cost of lab-grown diamonds. A piece of jewellery featuring a simulated diamond can often be purchased for a fraction of the price of a lab-grown or natural diamond.

While simulated diamonds are much cheaper, they lack the longevity and resale value of lab-grown diamonds. Lab-grown diamonds are considered real diamonds and retain a significant portion of their value, making them a better long-term investment.

Ethical and Environmental Considerations

One of the main reasons buyers are turning to lab-grown diamonds is due to their ethical and environmental benefits.

Lab-grown diamonds are considered conflict-free, as they are created in a laboratory rather than mined from the earth. Mining diamonds can have a significant environmental impact, including habitat destruction and carbon emissions. With lab-grown diamonds, these concerns are greatly reduced, making them a more sustainable choice for eco-conscious buyers. You can also explore fancy coloured lab-grown diamonds for an ethical yet colourful option.

Simulated diamonds, like cubic zirconia, also offer an ethical alternative since they do not involve any mining. However, they are not considered real diamonds, which can influence their appeal to some buyers.

Both options are good for those seeking an environmentally friendly alternative to mined diamonds, but lab-grown diamonds offer the added benefit of being a real diamond with lower environmental impact.

Which One Is Right for You?

Choosing between a lab-grown diamond and a simulated diamond ultimately comes down to personal preferences, budget, and the intended use of the jewellery.

If you're looking for a real diamond that offers durability, brilliance, and long-term value at a more affordable price than a natural diamond, lab-grown diamonds are the best choice. They are perfect for engagement rings and other pieces you plan to wear every day. To browse lab-grown shapes, you can check out radiant diamonds or even pear-shaped lab-grown diamonds.

If you're more focused on budget and don’t mind that the stone isn’t a real diamond, simulated diamonds like cubic zirconia or moissanite may be ideal. They are especially popular for fashion jewellery or as temporary options before purchasing a more expensive piece.

Understanding the Key Differences

In summary, while both lab-grown and simulated diamonds offer alternatives to natural diamonds, they are distinctly different. Lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds with identical properties to natural diamonds, while simulated diamonds are imitation stones that look like diamonds but do not have the same chemical makeup or durability.

Lab-grown diamonds are a more durable, valuable option for long-term wear, whereas simulated diamonds provide an affordable, visually appealing alternative for those on a budget. When making your decision, consider how you plan to wear the jewellery, your budget, and your preferences for durability and authenticity.

FAQs

Are lab-grown diamonds better than simulated diamonds?

Lab-grown diamonds are generally considered better than simulated diamonds due to their identical properties to natural diamonds, including durability and brilliance. Simulated diamonds, while visually similar, are not real diamonds and do not have the same lasting value.

Do simulated diamonds look as good as lab-grown diamonds?

Simulated diamonds can look very convincing, especially at a glance. However, they do not reflect light in the same way as lab-grown diamonds and may appear less brilliant or glassy over time, especially cubic zirconia.

Can you tell the difference between a lab-grown diamond and a simulated diamond?

An untrained eye may not be able to tell the difference between a lab-grown diamond and a simulated diamond, but a jeweller or expert can usually identify the variations in light reflection, hardness, and brilliance.

Which is more durable: lab-grown diamonds or simulated diamonds?

Lab-grown diamonds are far more durable than simulated diamonds. Lab-grown diamonds have the same hardness as natural diamonds, making them highly resistant to scratches, while simulated diamonds like cubic zirconia are much softer and more prone to wear.

See the numbers for yourself: our natural vs lab-grown diamond price comparison matches any diamond in our stock with its lab-grown twin, so you can see the exact saving.