Myths and Misconceptions About Lab-Grown Diamonds – What’s True and What’s Not?

Lab-grown diamonds have quickly become a favorite among modern jewelry lovers, but misconceptions still persist. Are they “real”? Do they lose value? How do they compare to mined diamonds? Let’s debunk some of the most common myths once and for all.

Myth 1: Lab-Grown Diamonds Are Not Real Diamonds

Fact: Lab-grown diamonds are 100% real diamonds.

One of the biggest misconceptions is that lab-grown diamonds are some kind of “copy” or “synthetic” version of a diamond. This is not true. Lab-grown diamonds are chemically, physically, and optically identical to mined diamonds, but instead of being extracted from the earth, they are grown in a controlled laboratory environment.

They have the same hardness, brilliance, and structure as mined diamonds – the only difference is how they are created.

Bottom line: A lab-grown diamond is just as real as a mined diamond.

Myth 2: Lab-Grown Diamonds Lose Value Faster Than Mined Diamonds

Fact: Value is driven by demand – and the demand for lab-grown diamonds is growing fast.

Historically, mined diamonds have had an artificially maintained value, largely due to De Beers’ marketing strategies. However, 52% of all engagement rings sold today feature lab-grown diamonds (Rapaport, 2024), proving that the market is shifting rapidly.

Most people buy an engagement ring to wear for life, not as an investment. Lab-grown diamonds offer more value for the money, while also being an ethical and sustainable choice.

Bottom line: Lab-grown diamonds are becoming increasingly popular and valued in the market.

Learn more: April Birthstone: Luxurious Diamond

Myth 3: Lab-Grown Diamonds Are Cheaper Because They Are Lower Quality

Fact: Lab-grown diamonds are often of higher quality than mined diamonds.

Because lab-grown diamonds are created in a controlled environment, many of the natural flaws and inclusions found in mined diamonds can be avoided. The result? Cleaner, more beautiful diamonds.

Additionally, lab-grown diamonds are more readily available since they are not limited by nature’s geological processes. This lowers the price, without compromising on quality.

Bottom line: Lab-grown diamonds are not cheaper because they are inferior – they are cheaper because they don’t require expensive and destructive mining.

Myth 4: Lab-Grown Diamonds Don’t Sparkle Like Mined Diamonds

Fact: Lab-grown diamonds have the same light performance and brilliance as mined diamonds.

A diamond’s brilliance depends on how it is cut, not where it comes from. Lab-grown diamonds have the same refractive index and fire as mined diamonds, meaning they reflect light in exactly the same way.

When placed side by side, even experts struggle to tell the difference without specialized equipment.

Bottom line: Lab-grown diamonds sparkle just as much as mined diamonds.

Myth 5: Lab-Grown Diamonds Are Not as Sustainable as People Think

Fact: Lab-grown diamonds have a significantly lower environmental impact than mined diamonds.

Mining for diamonds destroys ecosystems, consumes vast amounts of water and energy, and often involves unethical labor practices. Lab-grown diamonds, on the other hand:

• Do not require destructive mining

• Have a lower carbon footprint (especially when produced with renewable energy)

• Are free from conflict and unethical labor practices

Yes, lab-grown diamonds require energy to produce, but compared to the massive destruction caused by diamond mining, they are a far more sustainable choice.

Bottom line: Lab-grown diamonds are the best option for both the environment and people.

Conclusion: Lab-Grown Diamonds Are the Future

3 Reasons The Kimberley Process Doesn't Work

Lab-grown diamonds are not just a modern alternative to mined diamonds – they are a better alternative. They are just as real, just as beautiful, but more sustainable, ethical, and offer greater value for the money.

Next time someone asks you if lab-grown diamonds are “real,” you’ll know the answer!

Explore our collection of sustainable lab-grown diamonds here.