1. Match the stone
Compare carat, millimeter measurements, cut, color, clarity and any report number.
Buying guide
Why choose a lab-grown diamond?
Choose it for its disclosed laboratory origin and current price profile—not because every stone carries the same grade, report, or impact claim. The useful decision is made stone by stone.
By the Sula Bridal team · Reviewed August 3, 2026
What remains the same—and what does not
Laboratory-grown and mined diamonds share the diamond crystal structure. Their growth origin differs, and market price, grading documentation, sourcing evidence, and resale conditions must be compared separately.
| Material | Diamond crystal |
|---|---|
| Hardness | 10 on the Mohs scale |
| Origin | Produced in a controlled facility; disclosure required |
| Growth methods | Commonly CVD or HPHT |
| Grading | Check the laboratory and report attached to the selected stone |
| Price | Compare current like-for-like quotes |
| Environmental claims | Require facility- and claim-specific evidence |
The four checks before you buy
2. Match the ring
Compare metal, karat, setting style, accent stones and the complete configured price.
3. Verify the claim
Treat environmental, labor and origin claims as evidence questions, not assumptions.
4. Use current data
Sula's standard center-stone selection starts at 1.5 carats; confirm the current product and selected stone before production.
Frequently asked questions
Is a laboratory-grown diamond a real diamond?
Yes. It has the diamond crystal structure and a Mohs hardness of 10. Its laboratory-grown origin must be disclosed, and visible performance still depends on the individual stone and its cut.
Does every laboratory-grown diamond have an IGI report?
No collection-wide assumption should be made. Confirm whether the selected stone includes a report, which laboratory issued it, and whether its report number and measurements match the stone offered.
Are laboratory-grown diamonds always more sustainable?
Origin alone does not prove a specific footprint. Production method, facility energy and the comparison baseline matter. Ask for claim-specific documentation before relying on an environmental statement.
How much less does a laboratory-grown diamond cost?
There is no fixed percentage that remains accurate across shapes, grades, sizes and market conditions. Compare current prices for stones with matching measurements, grades and reports.
Compare a current stone
We can review the grading record, measurements, and ring configuration with you.
Book a consultationEditorial record
Review and sources
Written and reviewed by Sula Bridal. Last reviewed August 3, 2026. Product availability and grading-report details can vary by selected stone; confirm the exact specifications shown before purchase.