Yes—lab grown diamonds are real diamonds. They have the same chemical composition, crystal structure, hardness, and optical properties as diamonds formed in the Earth. The only real difference is how they are created. Natural diamonds form underground over millions of years, while lab grown diamonds are produced in advanced laboratories that recreate the same conditions of heat and pressure that occur in nature.

Because of this, lab grown diamonds look, perform, and test exactly like natural diamonds. They can be cut into dazzling engagement rings, elegant fine jewelry, and heirloom pieces just like any other diamond.

At Springer’s Jewelers, a family-owned New England jeweler with more than 150 years of history serving coastal communities, this is one of the questions we hear most often from couples exploring engagement rings. Once you understand how lab grown diamonds compare to natural diamonds—and where each one shines—it becomes much easier to decide which option feels right for you.

What Makes A Diamond “Real”?

When jewelers say a diamond is real, they are referring to its physical and chemical properties, not where it was found.

All diamonds—whether natural or lab grown—share the same core characteristics:

• They are made of crystallized carbon atoms

• They rank 10 on the Mohs hardness scale

• They reflect light with the same brilliance and fire

They can be graded using the same 4Cs: cut, color, clarity, and carat weight

Because lab grown diamonds share these identical properties, gemological instruments identify them as diamonds.

This is why they are widely used in engagement rings and fine jewelry collections today.

Gem Fact

Lab grown diamonds are often identified using specialized gemological equipment because visually they are nearly indistinguishable from natural diamonds.

How Lab Grown Diamonds Are Created

Lab grown diamonds are formed using technology that recreates the same conditions that form diamonds deep within the Earth.

Two main methods are used:

High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT)

This process replicates the intense heat and pressure found underground.

Carbon material is placed in a specialized press where it crystallizes into a diamond over time.

Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD)

In this process, carbon-rich gas is introduced into a chamber where carbon atoms slowly attach to a diamond seed crystal.

Layer by layer, a diamond grows.

Both methods produce diamonds that are chemically identical to natural diamonds.

From The Jeweler’s Bench

When clients compare diamonds at Springer’s Jewelers, what they often notice first is that the visual beauty of the diamond depends more on cut quality than whether the diamond is natural or lab grown.

Why Many People Are Considering Lab Grown Diamonds

Over the past several years, lab grown diamonds have become increasingly popular for engagement rings.

Many couples appreciate the opportunity to choose:

• A larger center diamond

• Higher clarity or color grades

• A design-forward engagement ring within their preferred budget

Because the diamonds can be produced more efficiently than natural diamonds, lab grown diamonds often allow for greater flexibility in size and specifications.

For couples designing an engagement ring together, this flexibility can be appealing.

How Lab Grown Diamonds Compare To Natural Diamonds

Both diamond types offer exceptional beauty, but there are a few differences to understand before making a decision.

In everyday wear, both types of diamonds perform beautifully.

This is why the decision often comes down to personal priorities.

Design Insight

If your priority is maximizing diamond size within a specific design, lab grown diamonds often allow couples to explore larger center stones without changing the overall ring style.

Questions Couples Often Ask When Comparing Diamonds

When clients visit Springer’s Jewelers to explore engagement rings, several practical questions usually come up.

Do Lab Grown Diamonds Last As Long?

Yes. Because they share the same physical structure as natural diamonds, lab grown diamonds are equally durable.

They resist scratching, maintain brilliance, and perform well in everyday jewelry.

Can You Tell The Difference Without Equipment?

In most cases, no.

Even trained jewelers cannot reliably distinguish lab grown diamonds from natural diamonds without specialized tools.

Do Lab Grown Diamonds Work In All Engagement Ring Styles?

Absolutely.

Lab grown diamonds can be used in:

• Solitaire engagement rings

• Halo designs

• Three-stone engagement rings

• Vintage-inspired settings

They can also be used in fine jewelry such as diamond necklaces, bracelets, and earrings.

Expert Tip

When selecting any diamond—natural or lab grown—the most important factor is the quality of the cut. A well-cut diamond reflects light beautifully and will appear more brilliant than a poorly cut stone.

A Thought From Our Perspective At Springer’s Jewelers

For many couples, choosing an engagement ring is one of the most meaningful decisions they will make together.

Some people are drawn to the history and rarity of natural diamonds. Others appreciate the flexibility and design possibilities that lab grown diamonds offer.

At Springer’s Jewelers, serving New England communities for more than 150 years, our goal is simply to help you understand the differences clearly so you can choose the diamond that fits your vision.

Whether that diamond was formed deep within the Earth or created through advanced technology, the most important part of the ring is the story it represents.

Discover Diamonds At Springer’s Jewelers

Choosing a diamond involves more than selecting a stone—it’s about finding a piece of jewelry that reflects your style, your story, and your future together.

At Springer’s Jewelers, our collection includes beautiful engagement rings, fine jewelry, estate jewelry, and Swiss timepieces curated with exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail.

If you are exploring lab grown diamonds, natural diamonds, or custom engagement ring designs, our team would be delighted to guide you through the options.

Discover our selection or schedule an appointment to explore engagement rings and diamond jewelry in person at one of our Springer's Jewelers locations.

Because the right diamond isn’t just about how it was formed—it’s about how it makes you feel.