Lab-Grown Diamonds: Everything You Need to Know (From Someone Who Gets It)

If you’ve been anywhere near TikTok, a jeweler’s counter, or a group chat recently, you’ve probably heard someone ask: “Wait, are lab-grown diamonds real?” The short answer? Yes. The longer answer? Let’s break it down—because whether you’re shopping for your first pair of diamond studs or considering a tennis bracelet upgrade, it’s time to get clear on what lab-grown diamonds really are, why they matter, and whether they’re right for you.

At Alexis Jae, we’ve been seeing a huge increase in requests for lab-grown swaps—especially for diamond studs and larger pendants. And while most of our customers still choose natural diamonds, the landscape is changing fast. So let’s dive into everything you should know about lab-grown diamonds (and yes, we’ll keep it real).

What Are Lab-Grown Diamonds?

Let’s get this part straight: lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds. They’re not fakes. They’re not knockoffs. They’re not cubic zirconia in disguise.

Lab-grown diamonds have the same chemical, physical, and optical properties as mined diamonds. They’re made of carbon. They sparkle the same. They’re just grown in a lab instead of mined from the earth. That’s it.

What they’re not:

• Cubic zirconia (CZ): CZ is an inexpensive crystal that looks like a diamond but isn’t chemically related at all. We love CZs for certain styles—especially when paired with brass—but they’re in a different category.
• Moissanite: Also not a diamond. Moissanite has a different sparkle (some say rainbow-y), and while it's harder than CZ, it doesn’t have the same feel or longevity as a diamond.

How Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Made?

There are two main methods: HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature) and CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition).

• HPHT: Mimics the natural formation of diamonds by applying high pressure and high temperature to carbon.
• CVD: Creates a diamond layer by layer in a vacuum chamber using a gas mix and plasma. Think slow cooking a diamond instead of pressure cooking one.

The result? A real diamond that’s chemically identical to a natural one. The only difference is where it grew up.

Why Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Cheaper?

One word: overhead.

Lab-grown diamonds aren’t pulled out of the ground using massive equipment and global supply chains. They’re made in labs, which means lower production costs and less markup.

Also: supply is more predictable. Natural diamonds are limited, and their prices are partially controlled by a few major players. Lab-grown diamonds aren’t subject to the same market manipulation.

This doesn’t mean lab-grown is “cheap”—they’re still real diamonds. But you can usually get a larger stone for your budget, which is why lab-grown has exploded in popularity for earrings, solitaire pendants, and tennis bracelets.

Can You Tell the Difference Between Lab-Grown and Natural?

Not with your eyes. Not even with a loupe.

To the naked eye, and even under magnification, lab-grown diamonds look exactly like natural ones. The only way to tell is with advanced lab equipment that can detect how the diamond was formed.

That means:

• No, your friends won’t be able to spot a lab-grown diamond.
• Yes, you can still get a GIA or IGI certification.
• The sparkle, cut, and clarity matter just as much—regardless of origin.

Do Lab-Grown Diamonds Hold Their Value?

This is one of the most Googled questions—and we get it. Here’s the truth:

Most diamonds, natural or lab-grown, don’t appreciate in value.

Unless you’re buying a rare, massive, or branded diamond (like a 5-carat D flawless Tiffany stone), resale value isn’t the goal. Diamonds are emotional purchases. You buy them to wear and love—not to flip.

Lab-grown diamonds tend to depreciate slightly faster because supply is growing quickly. But even natural diamonds—especially smaller ones—typically resell for less than you paid. The resale market isn’t kind to jewelry unless it’s antique or investment-grade.

The History of Natural Diamond Marketing

Let’s zoom out for a sec. Why do we associate diamonds with engagement rings in the first place?

It wasn’t always this way. In fact, it wasn’t until the 1930s that De Beers launched their now-famous campaign: “A diamond is forever.”

That ad didn’t just sell rings. It sold an idea—that diamonds were the ultimate symbol of love. The rest is history. Now, with the rise of lab-grown, we’re watching a new chapter unfold. The love is still there—it just might be made in a lab.

Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Sustainable and Ethical?

Short answer: yes. Lab-grown diamonds are typically much more sustainable and ethical than mined ones.

• No mining: Which means less environmental damage.
• No conflict zones: Lab diamonds aren’t tied to civil wars or labor abuses.
• More transparency: You know exactly where your diamond came from.

This is a big deal for many of our customers—especially Gen Z, who care deeply about sustainability and ethics.

Should You Get a Lab-Grown Diamond Ring?

Honestly, it depends. Here’s what we tell our customers:

Pros

• You can get a bigger diamond for your budget.
• It’s ethically and sustainably sourced.
• You can still get certification and beautiful settings.

Cons

• Lab-grown diamonds may depreciate faster.
• Some people still prefer natural for tradition or legacy.

Bottom line? If you’re buying a ring for love—not for resale—lab-grown can be a brilliant choice.

What About Lab-Grown Emeralds?

This is where we draw the line. Lab-grown emeralds aren’t really “lab-grown” in the same way diamonds are. They’re **synthetic emeralds**—basically lookalikes made from different materials.

If you want a rich green look, we recommend **a high-quality CZ or a natural emerald** instead. Don’t fall for the “lab emerald” marketing—it’s not the same thing.

What Metal Should You Use with Lab-Grown Diamonds?

We’ll say it loud: 14k solid gold, all the way.

Diamonds—whether lab-grown or natural—deserve real gold. We love pairing CZs with brass when it makes sense, but diamonds belong in solid gold if you want something that lasts. No plating. No fading. No regrets.

When Lab-Grown Makes the Most Sense

Lab-grown isn’t for everything—but when it works, it works. These are our favorite ways to go lab-grown:

• Diamond studs: Our best-seller. Go big, guilt-free.
• Tennis bracelets: Max sparkle. Lab-grown makes it more accessible.
• Solitaire pendants: Think 1-carat bezels and beyond.

Where it makes less sense? Tiny accent diamonds and pavé. The price difference isn’t dramatic at that size, so most customers still go natural there.

How to Shop Lab-Grown at Alexis Jae

We offer lab-grown options on almost all our diamond pieces. Just ask—we’re happy to swap them in.

Want a few starting points? Try these:

• Our lab-grown diamond stud earrings
• A lab diamond tennis bracelet for daily glam
• A custom bezel pendant for a big birthday or push present

And if you’re ever unsure what’s right for you, shoot us a message. We’ll help you find your sparkle—no pressure, no upsell.

The Bottom Line

Lab-grown diamonds are here to stay—and for good reason. They’re real. They’re beautiful. And they’re giving customers more options than ever before.

At Alexis Jae, we’re seeing the shift. While most of our customers still prefer natural diamonds, more and more are discovering the brilliance of lab-grown. And we’re here for both. Your jewelry should reflect your priorities—whether that’s tradition, sustainability, size, or sparkle.

And no matter what, we’ve got you covered.