What are lab-grown diamonds?

A lab-grown or lab-created diamond is a diamond grown in a laboratory setting through processes that mimic the natural high-heat and high-pressure conditions of earth.

The only difference between earth mined diamonds and lab-grown diamonds is their origins. One comes from deep in the earth, while the other is “grown” in a lab by repeating the same process. These being extreme pressure and heat, the same as natural diamonds are exposed to in the ground.

Much like earth mined diamonds, lab-grown diamonds are priced based on their 4C’s characteristics. Lab grown diamonds typically retail for 40-50% less than earth mined diamonds of comparable size and quality, meaning you can get a bigger, better diamond for your budget by choosing a lab-grown diamond. For example, for roughly the same cost of a 1.50 carat solitaire engagement ring you can purchase a 2.50 carat lab-grown diamond of the same quality from Michael’s Jewelry Center.