Are lab-grown diamonds as real as mined diamonds for jewelry?

For many Indian shoppers, buying diamond jewelry is not just a fashion decision. It’s an emotional investment. Whether it’s a diamond engagement ring, a gift of love, or a self-purchase to celebrate success, diamonds have long been symbols of elegance, commitment, and status.

But as of now, the lab-grown diamonds' eco-friendly appeal attracts everyone towards them.

This natural shift brings a question: Are lab diamonds as real as mined diamonds?

To get the answer to this question, you have to understand the difference between these two types of diamonds. This article will clarify every detail so you can make a better decision.

What exactly are lab-grown diamonds?

Let’s start by understanding what lab-grown diamonds are, not what they’re not.

A lab-grown diamond (also known as a man-made or cultured diamond) is created in a high-tech lab that replicates the conditions under which natural diamonds form in the earth. 

Instead of taking billions of years under the Earth’s crust, it takes just a few weeks to manufacture in a controlled lab environment.

Despite being manufactured in the laboratory, these diamonds are chemically, physically, and optically identical to mined diamonds.

Did you read it twice?

Lab diamonds are the first choice of natural diamonds.

That’s right. The sparkle, the hardness (yes, a perfect 10 on the Mohs scale), the brilliance, it’s all the same. Even trained gemologists can’t tell the difference without specialized instruments.

So when you’re buying a lab-grown diamond, you're buying a real diamond. Not a cheap diamond alternative like cubic zirconia (CZ) and Moissanite.

Lab diamonds are known as conflict-free, eco-friendly, and environmentally friendly diamonds in the world.

How Do Lab-Grown Diamonds Compare to Natural Ones?

Let’s compare lab diamonds and natural diamonds across key areas that matter to you:

1. Appearance & Quality

The best part of the lab diamonds is that they look the same as natural diamonds.

They both are on the same level under the diamond 4Cs grades, hardness, and quality.

The best part of cultured diamonds is that they can’t be differentiated from the naked eye, even under a jeweler’s loupe.

So, what does it mean?

They are 100% real diamonds and can be certified by popular gemologist institutions like IGI and GIA. While a diamond jewelry certification is provided by SGL.

In essence, when things comes to the quality of diamonds, they’re still perfect due to the manufacturing in a controlled environment.

2. Price & Value

Indian consumers are paying more attention to the diamond jewelry prices. Before they commit to making the purchase, they compare different diamond shapes, alternatives, jewelry design styles, etc.

Why?

They want to save the additional cost to be spent. But with the lab diamonds, they don’t have to think about overspending. Even within diamond jewelry available under 30k rupees, by preferring these diamonds.

In other words, ethical diamonds have a 40-60% lower cost than natural ones with the same 4Cs grade, shape, and quality. That means a 1-carat round brilliant cut lab-grown diamond looks the same as a 1-carat natural one could save you lakhs of rupees.

So, if you’re planning a wedding, anniversary, or gift, your money goes significantly further with lab diamonds. You could upgrade to a larger size or better quality without breaking your budget.

3. Environmental Impact

The lab diamond sustainability report says they are not manufactured in conflict zones and do not inspire illegal mining practices. Also, to appeal to more eco-conscious people, these diamond jewelry are made using recycled gold and environmentally friendly packaging. Through this initiative, they’re giving back to nature without hurting the sentiments of buyers and society as well.

Apart from this, diamond mining is resource-heavy. It requires moving tons of earth, consumes a lot of water, and leaves a carbon footprint. Also, in this process illegal activities have been involved and it can’t be reported to higher authorities. That’s why natural diamonds come with the “blood diamonds” tag.

In contrast, lab-grown diamonds have eco-friendly and conflict-free diamond tags. So, it’s very obvious you want jewelry as an auspicious sign, not a cost to the life of someone.

Remember: when you choose lab diamond jewelry for office wear or celebrating the Diwali festival, you’re making a conscious, planet-positive choice already.

4. Ethical Assurance

In India, illegal diamond trading is common. In other words, when someone wants to buy a natural diamond without any prior billing, it can be done easily. From it, a black market price hike is inspired and negatively impacts the entire market situation. These mined diamonds don’t have any traceability, and it’s a supply chain defect, after all.

When we turn our face towards the lab diamonds, we find that they can be traceable and produced under ethical sourcing. The point is that conscious buyers can purchase them for wedding rings or customized jewelry. This can be helpful for a gift receiver, too, as they proudly say they contribute to an eco-friendly nature.

Let’s move towards another point when talking about the cultured diamond gems.

But What About the Resale Value of Diamonds?

This is a valid concern, especially in India, where jewelry is seen as an investment like gold, the stock market, and real estate. Mined diamonds have a resale market, although even there, most buyers don’t recover full value; they get around 40-60% of the price.

Lab-grown diamonds, being newer, still have a developing resale market. However, the focus is shifting from resale to value-driven purchase. You’re getting the same beauty and quality at half the cost, so even if you don’t resell it, you’re not overpaying.

Also, as acceptance grows and demand rises, resale and exchange programs for lab diamonds are being offered by trusted brands.

Who’s Buying Lab-Grown Diamonds in India?

More people than you think. From metro cities like Mumbai, Chennai, Delhi, Kolkata, Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, to tier-2 cities like Surat, Bhopal, Jaipur, Pune, and Coimbatore, everyone praises the look of lab-created diamonds.

Here’s a brief overview of who purchases these diamonds:

1. Millennials and GenZ

Urban Indian consumers, especially millennials and Gen Z choosing lab-grown diamonds. They are tech-savvy, value-conscious, environmentally aware, and not tied to traditional norms. For them, lab diamonds tick every box.

The reason? Not a cost-friendly factor, but it’s a personal value-driven attachment that enhances the wearing appeal.

2. Indian Brides and Couples

As weddings are the most memorable and personal moments of Indian culture, jewelry has become an integral part of the ceremony. Lab diamond jewelry for Indian brides is becoming a hot choice, including couple rings. Especially when they realize they can afford a bigger solitaire with the same budget.

And it’s not just women. Indian men, including grooms, are preferring lab diamond jewelry, from rings to bracelets, because of the clean aesthetic and modern luxury feel.

Real Stories from Indian Customers at PureJewels

At PureJewels, we believe in transparency and authenticity. Here are some of our past customers who bought diamond jewelry from us, and see what their words say.

1. Sushil Patil from Goa, a 30-year-old working professional, said:

“The team at Pure Jewels is incredible! They patiently guided me through the entire buying process, explaining diamond quality, cuts, and settings. I felt confident in my purchase, and my new ring is absolutely stunning! Will definitely be back for more.”

2. Kanchan Warik, a 28-year-old entrepreneur, said:

“I recently purchased a stunning lab-grown diamond Wedding Solitaire Ring from Pure Jewels, and I couldn’t be happier! The brilliance and craftsmanship are beyond my expectations.

The team was super helpful in guiding me through the selection process. Highly recommended!”

From these words of customers, you can understand what we did and how we helped create the moments.

These reviews aren’t just lab diamond jewelry trends of 2025. Their happiness and enjoyment reflect in the mindset shifts.

Exposing Myths About Lab-Grown Diamonds

Let’s quickly address some common myths about these man-made diamonds:

Myth 1: Lab-grown diamonds are fake.

Truth: They are 100% real diamonds. The only difference is origin: lab vs Earth. From the 4Cs quality to the appearance and durability to grades, they are on the same level.

Myth 2: They don't last.

Truth: Lab diamonds have the same hardness and durability as natural ones. They are forever too. They score a 10/10 on the Mohs scale, showing they’re tough enough to prevent scratches and unnecessary loss.

Myth 3: They don’t have emotional value.

Truth: Emotional value comes from the occasion, the meaning, and the love behind the gift, not the mining and heavy price tag. Lab diamonds bring the values to the personality of the wearer, whether it’s yourself, your fiancé, wife, or anyone else you love.

Why Lab-Grown Diamonds Are the Future of Jewelry in India?

We’re witnessing a shift, and it’s only going to grow.

Conflict-free diamonds align with modern values:

• Transparency
• Affordability
• Quality
• Sustainability
• Ethics

As more Indian buyers experience lab diamonds firsthand, the old biases are washing away.

Brands like PureJewels are leading this change, not just by offering beautiful collections but by educating customers with facts, clarity, and confidence.

So, Are Lab-Grown Diamonds as Real as Mined Diamonds?

Yes. Lab diamonds are every bit as real as mined diamonds.

They sparkle the same, shine the same, and hold the same emotional significance.

The only difference?

They’re made with 21st-century technology, cost significantly less, and are kinder to the planet.

In a world where conscious luxury is rising, lab diamonds aren’t a compromise. They are the smarter, modern choice.

Discover Your Perfect Lab Diamond Jewelry

At PureJewels, we specialize in crafting elegant, certified lab-grown diamond jewelry for every occasion. Whether it’s a proposal ring, everyday office wear, or a Diwali gift, our diamonds speak for themselves.

Looking to buy ethical diamond jewelry in India with the best quality and at affordable costs? Explore our online jewelry collection today and discover a new era of timeless sparkle with honesty, elegance, and value at its core.

Schedule a free consultation with our jewelry experts to learn the best design for your personality. Why wait? Your beautiful looks are just a few taps away.