What Are Lab-Grown Diamonds?
Diamonds have always symbolized love, commitment, and legacy. But in recent years, another question has taken center stage: what are lab grown diamonds, and how do they compare to natural ones?
At Simone & Son, we’ve been handcrafting jewelry in Orange County since 1978, and we know our clients want clarity when choosing the perfect diamond. Let’s explore what lab grown diamonds are, how they’re created, and what makes them a remarkable choice for engagement rings, wedding bands, and custom designs.
What Exactly Are Lab Grown Diamonds?
Lab grown diamonds are real diamonds created in a controlled laboratory environment. They share the same chemical composition, crystal structure, and optical properties as mined diamonds. In fact, even trained gemologists require advanced equipment to tell them apart.
Key Point: Lab grown diamonds are made of pure carbon, just like natural diamonds. They’re not substitutes or imitations like cubic zirconia or moissanite.
How Are Lab Grown Diamonds Made?
There are two primary methods used to grow diamonds in a lab:
High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT)
This method mimics the natural conditions deep within the Earth. Carbon is placed under intense heat and pressure, forming diamond crystals.
Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD)
A tiny diamond seed is placed in a chamber filled with carbon-rich gas. The gas is energized, causing carbon atoms to layer onto the seed and grow into a diamond.
Both methods produce diamonds that are identical in hardness, brilliance, and durability to mined diamonds.
Lab Grown vs. Natural Diamonds: What’s the Difference?
Why Choose a Lab Grown Diamond?
For many couples, the appeal lies in three main areas:
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Affordability: You can often choose a larger carat size or higher quality within the same budget.
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Quality: Lab grown diamonds are graded by the same standards (cut, color, clarity, carat) and come with certifications like GIA.
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Variety: Because of their accessibility, you’ll see more shapes, sizes, and custom options available.
Quick Insight: Lab grown diamonds offer the same sparkle and durability as mined diamonds, often at a value that lets you dream bigger.
Do Lab Grown Diamonds Look Different?
Not at all. A 1-carat lab grown diamond and a 1-carat natural diamond will have the same fire, brilliance, and sparkle if they’re cut to the same standards. What matters most is choosing a well-cut diamond that maximizes light return.
At Simone & Son, our in-house experts will show you both lab grown and natural diamonds so you can compare them side by side.
Lab-Grown vs. Natural Diamond Prices by Carat Size
This chart highlights one of the clearest differences between lab-grown and natural diamonds: price. For every carat size shown, lab-grown diamonds remain consistently more affordable, often costing a fraction of their natural counterparts.
Are Lab Grown Diamonds Right for You?
Lab grown diamonds are ideal if you want:
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A larger stone without stretching your budget.
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The same brilliance and durability as a natural diamond.
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Flexibility in choosing custom settings and styles.
They may not be the right choice if your priority is long-term resale value, since natural diamonds tend to hold their market position differently.
Lab Grown Diamonds in Custom Jewelry
Because Simone & Son specializes in custom jewelry design, lab grown diamonds open even more possibilities. You can:
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Design a custom engagement ring with a larger center stone.
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Add lab grown diamond accents to wedding bands or anniversary rings.
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Create one-of-a-kind pieces using CAD technology in collaboration with our team.
Every lab grown diamond we offer is graded and certified, ensuring you get the same trusted quality as with natural stones.
Why Choose Simone & Son
Since 1978, Simone & Son has been crafting jewelry that reflects family values, love, and individuality. As a multi-generational jeweler in Orange County, we pride ourselves on:
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Expert guidance from GIA-trained professionals.
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Custom CAD design done in-house, so your vision is brought to life with precision.
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Legacy craftsmanship — every ring is a modern heirloom, built to last for generations.
Your story. Our craft. That’s the Simone & Son promise.
Conclusion: Diamonds, Reimagined
So, what are lab grown diamonds? They’re real diamonds with the same brilliance, strength, and beauty as those found in nature — simply created in a modern way. Whether you choose lab grown or natural, the meaning is the same: a lasting symbol of your love story.
At Simone & Son, we invite you to explore both options and design something unforgettable.
Simone & Son
10124 Adams Ave
Huntington Beach, CA 92646
(714) 964-4012
info@simoneandson.com
