About Diamonds
At The Cut, we specialise in sourcing the most extraordinary stones, be they lab-grown diamonds or natural, mined stones. The choice is ultimately yours and we are here to help expertly guide your decision-making and design process. However, there’s no denying the growing interest in and popularity of lab-grown stones in recent years. We find that many of our clients choose to work with them as they are of identical quality to mined stones without having to compromise on The Four Cs: cut, colour, clarity, carat. Lab-grown diamonds enable you to own the wish-list jewellery you’ve always admired.
What is a Lab-Grown Diamond?
Created in controlled environments, lab-grown diamonds are as genuine as those mined from the ground. Utilising advanced technology to replicate the natural processes that occur deep within the Earth, this process results in diamonds of exceptional quality and beauty, boasting the same mesmerising brilliance as mined diamonds — without the human and environmental toll of mining.

How do Lab-Grown Compare with Mined Diamonds?
Sharing the very same physical, chemical and optical properties, the only difference between lab-grown and mined diamonds is their origin. Lab-grown are man-made in a controlled laboratory while mined diamonds are extracted from the earth through mining operations. In 2018, the US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) made the landmark ruling that a diamond is a diamond whether it comes from a lab or from the ground.
Both lab-grown and mined diamonds:
- Share the same DNA and are made of the same mineral and carbon
- Measure 10 on the MOHS scale of hardness
- Are unique with one-of-a-kind inclusions and patterns
- Are graded in the same way, in accordance with the Gemological Institute of America’s (GIA) grading system based on the
- 4 C’s - Clarity, Cut, Colour and Carat. The GIA has been grading lab-grown diamonds since 2007
- Come with GIA certification and an inscription on the girdle to identify the diamond

How are Lab-Grown Diamonds Made?
Lab-grown diamonds are produced through two distinct methods. Chemical vapor deposition (CVD) is a process in which a diamond seed is exposed to a gas mixture, resulting in the gradual accumulation of carbon atoms and the formation of a flawless crystal structure. The high-pressure, high-temperature (HPHT) method replicates the natural conditions found deep within the earth’s crust where diamonds are naturally formed. This enables the cultivation of stones that spark with the same brilliance as mined diamonds as they’re both made of the same substance, carbon.

Is There a Visible Difference Between Lab-Grown and Mined Diamonds?
No. In fact, lab-grown diamonds are so remarkably similar to their mined counterparts that even trained gemologists find it difficult to differentiate between the two without using highly specialised equipment that can detect the minor differences in trace elements and crystal growth.

What are The Benefits of Lab-Grown Diamonds?
By harnessing the latest technology, lab-grown stones eliminate the need for expensive and environmentally damaging mining practices while enhancing the precision of the cutting and polishing processes. As a result, lab-grown diamonds are priced at a fraction of the cost of mined diamonds - typically 30-50% less - enabling clients to select larger stones without having to increase their budget.
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Lab Diamonds Faq
How Long Does It Take To Grow Lab diamonds?
The duration required to grow Lab diamonds varies depending on the desired size and quality. In general, the process can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. The growth process involves creating the right conditions for the carbon atoms to accumulate and form a crystal structure. This includes maintaining specific temperature and pressure levels.
The intricate nature of growing diamonds requires careful monitoring and precise control. Despite the time investment, the end result is a beautiful and sustainable diamond that exhibits the same brilliance and clarity as mined diamonds.
Do Lab Diamonds Test Positive As Diamonds?
Yes, a Lab diamond will test positive on a diamond tester. These diamonds are identical to mined ones, passing every test for authenticity.
Created by scientists, ethical diamonds possess the same chemical, physical and optical properties. Even expert gemologists struggle to differentiate them visually. Only specialised equipment reveals subtle distinctions in trace elements and crystal growth.
Lab diamonds are the real deal, indistinguishable from mined diamonds.
Which Celebrities And Brands Are Using Lab Diamonds?
As the popularity of Lab diamonds continues to rise, more and more celebrities are choosing to wear these these gems - without the human and environmental toll of mining.
High-profile figures such as Drake, Anna Wintour, Rihanna, Lady Gaga, Zendaya, Emma Watson, Jennifer Hudson, Meghan Markle and Leonardo DiCaprio have been seen proudly sporting lab-grown diamonds at red carpet events and in their personal lives.
Luxury brands Prada and Fred have recently released fine jewellery collections with lab diamonds, while Breitling and Tag Heuer are utilising lab diamonds in their watches, along with an increasing number of luxury brands including Balmain, Gucci and Jean Dousset, the great grandson of Louis Cartier - who created a business that solely utilises lab grown diamonds in his jewellery. Dousset says his great grandfather would have certainly understood the switch because he was an innovator.
Can You Tell a Lab And Mined Diamond Apart?
The truth is that not even jewellers and gemologists can tell the difference between mined and Lab diamonds with the naked eye. Both types of diamonds share the same physical and chemical properties, including their exceptional brilliance and hardness. However, gemologists can use specialised equipment to distinguish between the two.
For example, lab diamonds often have unique growth patterns or small inclusions that are characteristic of the growing process. Overall, without the use of advanced testing methods, it is nearly impossible to visually differentiate between ethical and mined diamonds.
Can Lab Diamonds Be Insured?
Yes, similar to mined diamonds, Lab diamonds can be insured. Speak to our design director for further information.
Does The Cut Jewellery Work With Mined Diamonds?
At Cut Jewellery, we proudly work with Lab diamonds. However, if you would like us to create one of our special pieces with mined diamonds, we’re more than happy to. After all, a diamond is a diamond! Craig has been sourcing mined diamonds for many decades. Contact our design team to inquire.
Can I Choose Any Shape With a Lab Diamond?
Both mined and Lab diamonds can be cut into a variety of shapes and forms.
One of the most prevalent shapes for Lab diamonds is the round diamond, which is known for its exceptional brilliance. Referred to as the round brilliant cut, it is highly sought after and commonly chosen for both lab-created and naturally mined diamonds.
Any shape other than round is classified as "fancy” and are available in lab-grown diamonds including; Emerald, Pear, Asscher, Marquise, Cushion, Heart, Oval and Radiant.
Is a Lab Diamond Synthetic?
Lab diamonds are not simulants, in fact they are made of the same mineral as mined diamonds - crystallised carbon. Not to be confused with simulant diamonds such as cubic zirconia or other simulants which can chip with regular wear.
In contrast, Lab diamonds exhibit the same durability and brilliance as natural diamonds, with none of the shortcomings associated with imitations.
Do Lab Diamonds Come With Certification?
Yes, Lab diamonds are subject to the same rigorous grading procedures as their mined counterparts. Established diamond grading labs, such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), IGI, ECL, and GCAL, offer grading services specifically for lab-grown diamonds.
Certification is crucial when purchasing ethical diamonds. It is strongly advisable to only acquire diamonds that have undergone certification, regardless of their origin. The grading process, which considers the 4Cs (carat weight, cut, color, and clarity), plays a vital role in determining the quality and value of the diamond. This ensures that consumers make informed decisions and acquire diamonds that meet their desired specifications.
Will Lab Diamonds Last?
Lab diamonds possess the same chemical and physical properties as mined diamonds. They are the hardest mineral known to man and measure 10 on the MOHS scale of hardness. With proper care, lab grown diamonds will maintain their brilliance and beauty for generations to come, making them a timeless and sustainable choice for those seeking enduring elegance.
The Cuts
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ASSCHER
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