What is a “Lab Diamond”?

A “Lab Diamond” is just like a Natural Diamond, except instead of growing naturally in the Earth’s crust, they are grown in a lab. There is no visual difference between Lab Created Diamonds and Natural Diamonds. They have the same types of color and clarity, the same sparkle and come in the same shapes and sizes. Lab Grown Diamonds also have the same hardness as Natural Diamonds.

Carbon is the main element in both Natural and Lab Diamonds. The only chemical difference between Lab Diamonds and Natural Diamonds is that most Natural Diamonds contain very small amounts of nitrogen, and Lab Diamonds don’t. This lack of nitrogen is one way experts can distinguish Lab Created Diamonds from Natural Diamonds. Laser inscription and different fluorescence are other identifying attributes of Lab Grown Diamonds.

What is Moissanite?

While natural Moissanite does exist, it is very rare and is only found in very small crystals. So for use in jewelry, scientists create it in a lab, similar to Lab Diamonds. However, unlike Lab Diamonds, Moissanite has a different chemical makeup. While Diamond is made of only carbon, Moissanite consists of both silica AND carbon. Because of this, Moissanite sparkles more and isn’t quite as hard as a diamond.

Moissanite naturally occurs in only colorless, near colorless, and yellow/green shades. Traditional Moissanite used in jewelry for the past few decades has had a yellowish tint to it. But new advances in technology have allowed cutting edge scientists, like those at Charles and Colvard, to create new, colorless Moissanite. ForeverOne Moissanite is bright white, without any yellow tint. We carry ForeverOne Moissanite right here at Griffin Jewelry!

What is the Price Difference Between Natural Diamonds, Lab Diamonds, and Moissanite?

Lab Diamonds, due to being harder, more traditional, and in higher demand, command a higher price tag than Moissanite. However, both are significantly cheaper than Natural Diamonds.

Which is Better?

It depends! You really can’t go wrong with any choice. If you are looking for a non-diamond center stone that’s super sparkly and doesn’t look exactly like a diamond, but is a fraction of the cost of a Natural or Lab Diamond, then Moissanite would be an excellent choice.
If you’re looking for the hardest, most durable stone that looks exactly like a Natural Diamond but offers a more affordable price tag, then a Lab Diamond is an excellent alternative to a Natural Diamond. But if you want a traditional and classic Natural Diamond, of course we have those too!

Where Can I Buy a Lab Diamond or Moissanite Engagement Ring?

Right here at Griffin Jewelry! Come visit us in store to see our selection and discuss your ideal gemstone selection. We also offer custom design and are ready to help you design the engagement ring or fine jewelry piece of your dreams!