Fashion

What Are Lab-Grown Diamonds? Everything You Need to Know (Without the Boring Bits)

 Lab-grown diamonds sparkle like mined ones. Understand how they’re made, why they’re real, and why choosing them combines brilliance with ethics and value.

They sparkle like mined diamonds because… they are diamonds.

Let’s clear the air right away: lab-grown diamonds aren’t fakes, aren’t dupes, and definitely aren’t cubic zirconia’s cooler cousin. They’re not moissanites. They’re not “American diamonds.” They are chemically, physically, and optically identical to mined diamonds. The only difference? Their origin story.

So, what exactly is a lab-grown diamond?

It’s pure carbon, crystallised into the same atomic structure as a mined diamond - only above ground, thanks to cutting-edge science. Put them side by side and even expert gemologists need specialised equipment to tell the difference.

And here’s the clincher: lab-grown diamonds are certified by IGI (International Gemological Institute) on the exact same parameters as mined diamonds - cut, colour, clarity, and carat. The famous 4Cs apply equally. Same sparkle, same permanence, same prestige.

How Do You Grow a Diamond?

With patience, precision, and a little science magic. There are two main ways:

HPHT (High Pressure, High Temperature): This method mirrors nature perfectly - extreme heat and pressure compress carbon into diamond, just as it happens underground, only much faster. At Coluxe, we choose HPHT because it delivers exceptional brilliance , consistency , and durability .

CVD (Chemical Vapour Deposition): Another advanced method where carbon-rich gases create diamonds layer by layer.

Both methods create real diamonds . Both are certified and graded just like mined. At Coluxe, we only work with transparent , ethical growers who meet our quality obsession.

Will Anyone Know the Difference?

No. Not at dinner. Not in the boardroom. Not even at a jewellery counter. The only way to distinguish a lab-grown from a mined diamond is with advanced lab equipment. To the eye - and even under a jeweller’s loupe - they’re identical. The sparkle, the strength, the fire: all the same.

Why Are They More Affordable?

Here’s the honest answer: mined diamond pricing has always been about scarcity and marketing. Lab-grown skips the billion years and the mining, so costs are driven by technology, not geology. That’s why a lab-grown diamond can cost up to 10x less than a mined stone of the same size and quality.

And here’s the fun part: that means you can choose a bigger diamond, higher clarity, or even a coloured gemstone - without compromise. It's a smarter luxury .

Will They Hold Resale Value?

This is the most common question. Jewellery isn’t the stock market - it’s about joy, not speculation.

That’s why Coluxe offers a lifetime buyback policy . You’ll always have the option to trade in, upgrade, or reset your piece with us. And meanwhile, you get to live in your jewellery every single day - not keep it locked away like an “investment.”

Are They Durable Enough for Daily Wear?

Yes. Lab-grown diamonds are the same hardness ( 10 on the Mohs scale ) as mined diamonds. That means they’re just as tough, just as enduring, and perfect for everyday studs, solitaire rings, or stacks of eternity bands.

Are They Really Sustainable?

Fair question. Lab-grown uses energy, yes - but it doesn’t move mountains, destroy ecosystems, or fuel conflict zones. No scars on the Earth. No murky supply chains. Many HPHT growers are already moving toward renewable energy, making the footprint lighter every year.

Net-net: lab-grown is significantly kinder to the planet and to people .

What About Coloured Stones?

Good news : emeralds, rubies, and sapphires can also be lab-grown - with the same atomic structure, the same brilliance, the same rich hues. They look identical to mined gemstones (unless you enjoy carrying a microscope in your clutch). And like diamonds, they’re certified , cleaner , and more consistent in quality. That’s why Coluxe plays in colour as joyfully as we do in diamonds.

Will People Judge Me For Choosing Lab-Grown?

Some still think “real” means mined. We disagree. To us, real means conscious, modern, and yours by choice. Lab-grown isn’t about compromise. It’s about evolution . It’s the next chapter of luxury - bold, intentional, and smarter.

Can I Insure a Lab-Grown Diamond?

Absolutely. Lab-grown diamonds are insurable on the same basis as mined, using IGI certification and valuation.

How Do I Care For Them?

Just like how you would do for the mined. A soft brush, mild soap, and a little care will keep them sparkling. At Coluxe, we also offer after-sales care and polishing, because fine jewellery deserves to live on your skin, not in a locker.

The Coluxe Point of View

We didn’t start Coluxe to follow a trend. We started because we believe diamonds shouldn’t come with gatekeeping - financial , emotional , or environmental .

Lab-grown diamonds open the door to a new kind of luxury: expressive, accessible, joyful. They let you buy your own ring without waiting for permission. They let you explore colour without guilt. They make fine jewellery, an everyday experience , not a rare occasion. Because jewellery should feel good - and be good. That’s the point.

Coluxe. Made, Not Mined. Certified by IGI. Crafted for Now. Treasured Forever.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What exactly are lab-grown diamonds?

Lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds with the same chemical, physical, and optical properties as mined diamonds. The difference lies in origin: they are created above ground using HPHT or CVD methods. They are IGI-certified, stunningly brilliant, and perfect for everyday wear.

2. Are lab-grown diamonds durable enough for daily use?

Yes. Lab-grown diamonds score 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, just like mined diamonds. This makes them ideal for studs, solitaire rings, bracelets, and stacked jewellery that you can wear every day without worry.

3. How are lab-grown diamonds more sustainable than mined diamonds?

Lab-grown diamonds avoid mining’s environmental and ethical impacts. They’re created in controlled facilities, often with renewable energy, making them a cleaner, more conscious choice without compromising beauty or brilliance.

4. Can coloured gemstones be lab-grown too?

Absolutely. Emeralds, rubies, and sapphires can also be lab-grown, offering rich hues, consistent quality, and ethical sourcing. They let you enjoy vibrant gemstones for everyday styling without the environmental cost of mined stones.

5. How can I tell a lab-grown diamond from a mined diamond?

To the naked eye - or even under a jeweller’s loupe - lab-grown and mined diamonds are indistinguishable. Only advanced lab equipment can tell them apart, so you get all the sparkle and prestige without compromise.

Read Next

Lab-grown diamonds aren’t just ethical - they’re perfect for everyday glamour. See how to make sparkles a part of your daily wardrobe in Everyday Diamonds, Made Possible (Hint: Lab-Grown ) .

From the Journal

Brand

Bold. Glamour. Global.

Coluxe was born in India and made to belong everywhere. Bold means luxury for all, glamour means joy and sparkle, and global is jewellery that travels with her wherever life takes her.

Brand

Design and Craftsmanship

Every Coluxe jewel begins with intention - precise proportions, balanced settings, and details engineered for comfort and brilliance. From IGI-certified diamonds to mirror-finished collets and seamless clasps, each element is refined to perfection. Multi-stage prototyping and rigorous checks ensure that what you wear isn’t just beautiful, but unmistakably Coluxe.

Brand

Our Founder's Journey

From waiting to choosing diamonds. In this personal story, Coluxe Founder & CEO Priyanka Gill shares how her journey with jewellery - from tradition and hierarchy to choice and agency - inspired the creation of Coluxe, a fine jewellery brand built on lab-grown diamonds, conscious luxury, and self-celebration.

Brand

The Coluxe Classics Edit

Every wardrobe needs its anchors - and jewellery is no different. The Coluxe Classics edit redefines timeless staples like studs, slim bands, tennis bracelets, and pendants in lab-grown brilliance and hallmarked gold. Designed to be worn every day and everywhere, these forever pieces are the rhythm of modern style: effortless, ethical, and endlessly versatile.

Brand

Coluxe Guide: How to Pick the Best Stone...

How to choose your first diamond. This Coluxe guide breaks down everything you need to know - from lab-grown vs. mined, to the 4Cs, certification, size, style, and value - so you can buy with clarity, confidence, and joy. Because your first diamond should feel like you, not like guesswork.

Brand

After-Sale Service

After-sale services that last. From repairs and resizing to polishing, valuations, and buyback, Coluxe ensures your jewellery is cared for with the same precision and intention it was created with - keeping every piece as brilliant and personal as the day it became yours.

Brand

7-Day Free Returns & Buyback Policy

Returns and buyback, made simple. At Coluxe, we believe fine jewellery should come with clarity and confidence. Our 7-Day Free Returns & Buyback Policy gives you flexibility, fair value, and peace of mind - whether you’re reconsidering a purchase or securing long-term value for your investment.

Brand

Good for the Planet and People

Coluxe jewellery blends beauty with responsibility. Lab-grown diamonds and gemstones reduce environmental impact, ensure ethical practices, and create fine jewellery that sparkles with integrity. Luxury she can wear proudly, without compromise - for the planet, for people, for today and tomorrow.

Brand

Engineered for Today

Coluxe jewellery is designed for the rhythm of modern life. With low-profile settings, ergonomic bands, seamless clasps, and precision-set stones, each piece is engineered for comfort, durability, and brilliance. Technology meets artistry to create fine jewellery that’s as wearable as it is luxurious - engineered for today, crafted for forever.

Brand

Certified by IGI Grading Labs: Confidence Behind Every...

IGI-certified lab-grown diamonds, assured. At Coluxe, every stone is independently graded by the International Gemological Institute (IGI), giving you complete confidence in the brilliance, authenticity, and ethical craftsmanship of your jewellery.

Brand

Stacking All Wins

Not every diamond needs an anniversary. At Coluxe, every win counts - from promotions to just because moments - and every stack tells her story, one sparkle at a time.

Brand

Ethical. Conscious. Fair.

Who says ethics can’t sparkle? At Coluxe, lab-grown diamonds and gemstones prove luxury can look fabulous, feel effortless, and still do good - jewellery she wears with joy and zero guilt.

Brand

Sparking Everyday Joy for All

Why save sparkle for someday? Joy belongs to the everyday. Coluxe creates fine jewellery in lab-grown diamonds and gemstones that move with her - luminous, versatile, and always her own.

Brand

The Coluxe Story

Coluxe redefines fine jewellery with lab-grown diamonds and gemstones, blending conscious craftsmanship, everyday elegance, and bold self-expression. Jewellery designed to be worn, stacked, and lived in - for the self-made.

Brand

Coluxe Privé - Design Your Own

Bespoke fine jewellery with meaning. Coluxe Privé is our made-to-order service where your vision becomes a one-of-a-kind creation - crafted in lab-grown diamonds, hallmarked gold, and designed to carry memory, intention, and individuality. From milestone engagement rings to deeply personal self-gifts, Privé transforms sketches, stories, and sentiments into timeless luxury that’s entirely yours

Brand

Say Yes with Coluxe

Coluxe engagement rings redefine tradition with ethical lab-grown diamonds, bold designs, and bespoke options - crafted for women who celebrate love, personal milestones, and everyday style.

Brand

We Play in Colour

Coloured gemstones for everyday wear. At Coluxe, we bring emeralds, rubies, and sapphires out of velvet boxes and into daily life. Grown with science, set in gold, and designed to shift with your moods, our coloured stones carry the same brilliance as diamonds - with a boldness all their own.

Brand

Luxury Through Her Lens

Coluxe founder Priyanka Gill shares how lab-grown diamonds, bold colour, and self-directed jewellery choices - empower women to claim luxury on their own terms.

Brand

The Jewellery Capsule Closet: 5 Outfits Around 5...

Building your jewellery capsule closet starts with five timeless Coluxe essentials - versatile lab-grown diamond and gemstone pieces designed to move with you from day to night, saree to suit. Discover how studs, solitaires, pendants, and bracelets create endless looks with effortless elegance.