What are Lab Grown Diamonds? Why They Might Be the Perfect Choice for Your Engagement and Wedding Rings

Lab-grown diamonds have become one of the most popular choices for engagement rings, wedding bands, and everyday fine jewelry, and for good reason. They offer the same beauty, brilliance, and durability as diamonds formed in the earth, often making it possible to choose a larger or higher-quality stone within your budget. If you have been curious about what lab-grown diamonds really are and whether they belong in your ring, we are here to walk you through it, the same way we would across the counter in one of our showrooms.

We sell both natural and lab-grown diamonds without judgment, because the right diamond is the one that fits your love story and your priorities. Here is what makes lab-grown diamonds such a beautiful and practical choice.

Why Lab-Grown Diamonds Are a Beautiful Choice

A lab-grown diamond shares the same fire, light, sparkle, and shine as a natural diamond because it is, in every meaningful way, the same material. You will find lab-grown diamonds in all of the cuts, shapes, settings, and metals you love, from classic round solitaires to fancy shapes like oval, pear, and emerald cut. Because they are more accessible, many couples find they can size up to a larger center stone or choose a higher clarity and color grade than they expected. Explore our full collection of lab-grown diamond engagement rings to see the range of styles.

Eternalle Platinum Lab-Grown Diamond Engagement Ring

• SKU: 0460363
• Crafted in platinum with a polished finish
• Eternalle lab-grown diamond collection
• Radiant-cut center stone, 3 1/2 ct. tw. total

What Are Lab-Grown Diamonds, Exactly?

Lab-grown diamonds, sometimes called lab-created or manmade diamonds, are real diamonds. They are chemically, optically, and physically identical to natural diamonds, which is why even a trained eye cannot tell the difference without specialized laboratory equipment. The only real distinction is origin: one crystallized deep in the earth over billions of years, and the other was grown in a controlled laboratory setting in a matter of weeks. Both are graded on the same 4Cs of cut, color, clarity, and carat weight.

Many guests also ask about sourcing. Natural diamonds sold in the United States are certified conflict-free under the 2003 Kimberley Process, and lab-grown diamonds offer another path for those who want full transparency about where their stone comes from. Whichever you choose, our jewelry consultants can walk you through the details.

Lab-Grown Diamonds Beyond the Ring

Lab-grown diamonds are not just for engagement rings and wedding bands. Because they make a bigger, brighter look more attainable, they are a favorite for everyday fine jewelry too, from diamond studs to pendants you can wear day after day. Browse our lab-grown diamond earrings for pieces that pair beautifully with a lab-grown ring or stand on their own.

Eternalle 14k Yellow Gold Lab-Grown Diamond Earrings

• SKU: 0456624
• 14k yellow gold with a polished finish
• Eternalle lab-grown diamond collection
• Modern studs with friction backs, 5/8 ct. tw.

Frequently Asked Questions

How are lab-grown diamonds made?

Lab-grown diamonds are created in a controlled laboratory using one of two proven methods: HPHT (high pressure, high temperature) or CVD (chemical vapor deposition). Both recreate the conditions that form a natural diamond. You can read more in the GIA’s overview of the HPHT and CVD growth processes, and our diamond experts are always happy to explain how it works when you visit us.

How are lab-grown diamonds different from cubic zirconia or moissanite?

This is one of the most important distinctions to understand. A lab-grown diamond is a real diamond with the same carbon structure as a natural one. Cubic zirconia and moissanite are made of entirely different materials and are not diamonds, even though they can resemble one at a glance. If you would like to compare them side by side, stop by any of our showrooms.

How are lab-grown diamonds certified and graded?

Lab-grown diamonds are graded using the same 4Cs framework as natural diamonds, evaluating cut, color, clarity, and carat weight. Quality stones come with independent laboratory certification, and we are glad to review a diamond’s report with you so you understand exactly what you are choosing.

Are lab-grown diamonds less expensive than natural diamonds?

Lab-grown diamonds typically cost less than comparable natural diamonds, which is why many guests find they can choose a larger center stone or a higher clarity and color grade for their budget. Our consultants can help you weigh your options so you get the look you love.

Do you offer both lab-grown and natural diamonds?

Yes, we offer both, and we present them without judgment. Our jewelry consultants can help you understand the differences and choose the diamond type that aligns with your values and your budget.

Do lab-grown diamond rings come with a warranty?

Every lab-grown diamond piece is backed by our best-in-class lifetime warranty, which covers cleaning, inspection, and repairs. We also offer complimentary cleaning and inspection at any of our showrooms to keep your ring looking its best.

Can I design a custom lab-grown diamond ring?

Absolutely. Our in-house design studio and master jeweler can build a one-of-a-kind lab-grown diamond ring with you, whether you are starting from a blank sketch, modifying an existing style, or reimagining an heirloom.

Do I need an appointment to shop for lab-grown diamond rings?

Walk-ins are always welcome, but we recommend booking a personalized consultation so you have dedicated time with one of our diamond experts. You can reserve a time at robbinsbrothers.com/appointment or find a showroom near you.

Or find a Robbins Brothers near you to explore our lab-grown diamond collection in person, across California, Arizona, Texas, and Washington.