Lab Grown Diamonds: The Truths & Myths Behind These Sparkling Gems

Diamonds are the ultimate symbol of devotion, love, and commitment, but traditional diamonds have a hefty price tag. Learn more about how lab diamonds are revolutionizing the industry and offering a more ethical, inexpensive alternative with that exact same sparkle.

Since the first diamond engagement ring was gifted in 1477 by Archduke Maximillian of Austria to his love Mary Burgundy, this beautiful gem has become popular in the modern-day proposal.

But natural diamond engagement rings can cost tens of thousands of dollars, depending on stone’s size, cut, and clarity—because diamonds are a rare geological find.

Over the last 50 years, lab-grown diamonds have been around, but old production processes made them less visually appealing than the real deal. Over the last decade, technology has made lab-grown diamonds that look identical to the average person’s naked eye.

At Ancaster Jewellers, we’re diamond experts who spend our days examining and comparing stones. But what are the downsides of lab-grown diamonds? Read along as our Hamilton jewelers expel the myths of lab-grown diamonds and share why these lab-grown diamonds rings, earrings, and more could be your very best option without compromising on brilliance. 

Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Real Diamonds?

We often hear this question as people shop for their engagement rings and lab-grown diamond earrings, and the answer is yes!

Lab-grown diamonds contain physically identical materials to natural diamonds—pure crystallized carbon. The difference is in the process because natural diamonds take over 1 billion years to form. That extensive timeframe and the rarity of the natural version keep prices relatively high when looking at lab-grown diamonds vs real diamonds.

Geological processes and diamond stimulants like Cubic Zirconia create lab-grown diamonds. They display the exact same physical, chemical, and visual characteristics as natural diamonds, along with the same fire and sparkle. Only true diamond experts can tell the difference between a natural and lab-grown diamond. 

The Pros of Lab-Grown Diamonds

Lab-grown diamonds offer many benefits for conscious consumers, including:

• Ethical sourcing. Lab-grown diamonds are grown by scientists, so they have minimal negative environmental or social impact compared to traditional diamond mining.
• Comparable quality. While old-school lab-grown diamonds were lower quality than natural ones, new-school diamonds face the same rigorous standards as natural diamonds. You get a stone with incredible carat, cut, colour, and clarity that looks identical to the natural version.
• Affordable prices. Lab-grown diamonds are easier to make than mining this finite resource. Because of that ease,lab-grown diamonds price points are more affordable for comparable size and quality. Lab-grown options make diamonds more accessible for more people and leave budget space to upgrade your choice affordably.
• Customizable options. Because lab-grown diamonds are purposefully designed and made, you can choose from a range of gem cuts and colours to form the diamond of your dreams. With natural diamonds, you have to hope you can find and afford your ideal gem.

Is it Worth Buying Lab-Grown Diamonds? 

Based on the value, customizability, and quality of lab-grown diamonds, they’re absolutely worth buying! You get the same brilliance for a fraction of the price—what’s not to love about that?

Are They Worth Anything?

The resale market is still developing, but lab-grown diamonds are valuable. Though they’re worth less than natural diamonds, you also pay less for them, and they retain their value well. With the right certifications from reputable Canadian gemological labs, you can assess and retain your diamonds' value for many years to come. 

The Cons of Lab-Grown Diamonds 

Many consumers hesitate to buy lab-grown diamonds because they don’t understand them.

Do lab-grown diamonds get cloudy?

Lab-grown diamonds are measured and assessed by the same standards as regular diamonds, and just like mined diamonds, they don’t get cloudy over time. Since their physical properties are identical to natural diamonds, they are also incredibly resistant to scratching and chipping.

If you’re looking at something like lab-grown diamonds vs moissanite, they're both durable, but diamonds win in colour, clarity, and quality. 

What to Avoid with Lab-Grown Diamonds

Lab-grown gives quality, but you should still carefully vet any sources you buy from as you would with natural diamonds.

Only buy lab-grown diamonds with a legitimate grading report from a trusted gemological lab and work with a jeweller you trust. 

Ancaster Jewellers—Lab-Grown Diamonds Canada

Lab-grown diamonds are a tried-and-tested alternative for the modern consumer who wants a better price without compromising quality or sustainability.

At Ancaster Jewellers, we're proud to offer a stunning selection of natural and lab-grown diamonds, working with you to pick or create a piece of jewellery that perfectly reflects your style and values. Shop our site or visit our store today and embark on your diamond journey with the guidance of our experts. Enjoy Ancaster jewellers services to help you find your perfect fit.