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3 times Excellent/Ideal in Cut & Polish & Symmetry = “Triple Ex”.

Especially for round diamonds, the expression “3 times Excellent = Triple Ex” is a technical term for absolute top class → three times the very best category (Ideal or Excellent) for cut, polish, symmetry.

“Triple Ex” are diamonds that are classified in both Cut, Polish and Symmetry with an excellent in the diamond certificate -> 3 times excellent.

Since IGI “ideal” cut grade is even slightly better than excellent, “Triple Ex” of course also applies when a diamond has an ideal cut (although the wording is not 3x excellent).

IMPORTANT: IGI’s “Ideal” = better than GIA Excellent! (though both cuts are excellent).
IGI has an additional level for Best-of-Best of Excellent = ideal.
This sometimes causes confusion as people think it has to be 3x Ex but ideal is even better.

Triple Ex stones are classified as follows:

• ideal (better) or excellent cut
• excellent polish
• excellent symmetry

We think that the massive price difference of about 70% between mined diamonds and lab diamonds cannot be sustained in the longer term. Since both are identical products (chemically, physically and optically), theoretically the price difference cannot be justified anyway.

Due to the ecological footprint, it would also be conceivable that in the future lab diamonds might even become expensive.

We see the risk of mining diamond prices falling/correcting as very high.

Due to a strong increase in demand for lab diamonds, prices here could rise because the global supply is currently still small due to capacities and cannot be increased massively so easily.

Lab diamonds are up to 70 percent cheaper than mine diamonds. For colored diamonds – Fancy Color Diamonds yellow, blue, pink and others – the price differences are even greater. Another advantage is that lab diamonds are more sustainable, environmentally friendly, social as well as ethical from their conflict-free origin. They are guaranteed not to be blood diamonds.

Main reasons in favor of Lab Grown Diamonds

• genuine diamonds (official certificates IGI, GCAL, GIA, etc.)
• Our lab diamonds are chemically, physically & optical identical to mined diamonds.
• up to 70% cheaper than mine diamonds
• affordable colored diamonds (Fancy Color Diamonds)
• Sustainable & Environmental & Social/Ethical (ESG; Sustainability)

→ the question is not why buy a lab diamond, the question is why NOT to buy a lab diamond and a mine diamond?!

…diamond = diamond. This was defined by the FTC (USA Federal Trade Commission) in July 2018.

All diamonds consist of pure cubic crystallized carbon.

Chemically, physically, optically, lab diamonds are the same as mining diamonds.

Both are 100% pure crystallized carbon.

Difference: origin laboratory versus mountain mining. Lab diamonds are 100% genuine, cheaper, more sustainable and more ethical. We see no reason not to buy a lab diamond.

No. Even experts with common instruments and diamond detectors, UV light, magnifying glass etc. are not able to tell the difference.

Lab-grown diamonds are identical in appearance to mine diamonds (visually identical)!

✓ traditional gemmological observations and old style “diamond detectors” are NOT able to distinguish them

In order to detect possibly very subtle differences in growth morphology, gemological institutes had to develop extremely expensive and complex equipment specifically for this purpose.

Certification laboratories try with special very expensive and complex machines and specifically trained experts (specially trained gemologists) to assign the difference by means of growth morphology (which is irrelevant in the cut diamond) and here more common fluorescence patterns under the UV light.

But even that is extremely difficult!

Moreover, even if growth patterns should be detected, it does not change the fact that “diamond = diamond”, it is a real diamond with the same material (crystallized carbon, pure carbon), the same chemical composition (chemically, physically and optically identical) and the same crystal structure as a mine diamond.

How do the certification companies manage to identify Lab-Diamonds as such?

As you can see, it is extremely difficult to make this distinction even for extremely well and very specifically trained experts who have specially developed equipment.

They try to categorize the morphology of diamonds using a diagram that lists the growth process, typical growth morphology and visual examples of mine, HPHT and CVD rough diamonds.

This diagram shows the different rough diamonds based on their growth form, or growth morphology. Although this shape is lost after a diamond has been cut and polished, identification is still possible by looking for fluorescence patterns (under the UV light) resulting from, among other things, the particular growth morphology – a difficult task!

As a rule, the cut diamonds are sent to the certification companies already declared as “lab grown”.

What is a lab-grown diamond, lab diamond, LGD, laboratory-grown diamond?

A lab-grown diamond is a man-made diamond that has been grown in a laboratory environment using one of the two manufacturing processes currently available: HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature) and CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition). All real diamonds consist of pure crystallized carbon (pure carbon); this applies to both mine diamonds and lab diamonds. The growing process mimics/imitates natural growth in the deep interior of the Earth (HPHT) or in interstellar gas clouds (CVD). Although the growth process is different from what occurs in nature, the chemical composition, physical properties, and optical characteristics of lab-grown diamonds are identical to those of diamonds mined/extracted from mines. Lab-grown diamonds come in all sizes (currently up to over 70 carats), all shapes and all colors, and the light output is identical to that of mined diamonds.

Lab diamonds, lab-grown diamonds (LGDs), laboratory-created diamond, lab diamond, man-made diamond, green diamond, green diamonds.
Also called:
Lab Grown Diamond, Lab-Created Diamond, Man-Made Diamond, Synthetic Diamond (incorrect), Cultured Diamond, Laboratory Diamond, LGD
lab-diamond, lab-diamond, LGD, Lab-Grown Diamond, Artificial Diamond (incorrect), Synthetic Diamond (incorrect), Laboratory-Grown Diamond

How do laboratory-grown diamonds differ from mine diamonds?

There is actually no difference: both are 100% real diamonds made of crystallized carbon with an identical cubic lattice structure. Mine diamonds are mined, laboratory diamonds are produced in the laboratory – but chemically, physically and optically they are completely identical. In 2018, the US FTC changed a law: “A diamond is a diamond, regardless of its origin.” International gemological laboratories (IGI, GIA) therefore certify lab diamonds with the same criteria as mine diamonds. Even with diamond detectors and traditional gemmological methods, they are indistinguishable.

For more on the difference between lab and mining/mining diamonds, click here.

Why is a reputable supplier of laboratory diamonds so important?

💎 Are there counterfeits of laboratory diamonds?
Yes! The market for laboratory diamonds is growing, but unfortunately there are also more and more counterfeits. Some suppliers sell moissanite or other imitations as genuine laboratory diamonds – often even with forged certificates.

💎 How do I recognize a genuine laboratory diamond?
A genuine laboratory diamond is chemically and physically identical to a natural diamond. It should always be supplied with a certificate from a recognized institute such as GIA, IGI or HRD. Make sure that the certificate has not been tampered with or falsified.

💎 What should I look out for when buying?
✔️ Only buy from trustworthy jewelers or dealers.
✔️ Ask to see the certificate and check it online with the issuing institution.
✔️ Be careful with extremely cheap offers – they are often deceptive.

💎 Why should I choose a reputable provider?
A reputable provider guarantees the authenticity and quality of your laboratory diamond. This means you get exactly what you ordered: a stunning, certified diamond that will sparkle forever. ✨

Are there differences in the quality of laboratory diamonds?

Yes, just as with natural diamonds, there are also major differences in the quality of laboratory diamonds. The most important factors that influence quality and value are:

💎 1. clarity:
Laboratory diamonds can have inclusions, just like natural diamonds. High-quality stones have minimal or no visible inclusions (e.g. VVS or VS1).

💎 2. color (Color):
The best laboratory diamonds are colorless or almost colorless (D-F). Cheaper varieties may have a slight yellow or brown tint.

💎 3. cut:
The cut is decisive for the sparkle of the diamond. An excellent or very good cut maximizes the brilliance, while a poor cut makes the stone appear dull.

💎 4. growth method:
There are two main methods for producing laboratory diamonds:
✔️ HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature): Often yields clearer stones with less nitrogen impurities.
✔️ CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition): Sometimes results in color changes that are corrected by post-treatments.

💎 5. certification:
Reputable laboratory diamonds have a certificate from GIA, IGI or HRD. Without certification, there is a risk of counterfeits or inferior stones.
Unfortunately, certificates are often falsified and sold as genuine laboratory diamonds with fake laboratory diamonds such as moissanite or other imitations – choose a reputable supplier with experience!

⚠️ Caution: Cheap laboratory diamonds can have poor cuts, inclusions or color casts. A trustworthy provider will ensure that you receive a high-quality, radiant diamond. ✨

Are there differences in the quality of laboratory diamonds and what should you look out for when buying them?

Yes, the quality of laboratory diamonds also depends heavily on the manufacturer. Different companies use different technologies, machines and manufacturing processes that affect the purity, color and overall quality of the diamond.

🔬 1. growth speed & technology:
Some manufacturers speed up the growth process too much, resulting in inferior crystals with more inclusions and color casts. High-quality suppliers take more time for growth in order to achieve perfect crystal structures.

🏭 2. machines & research teams:
The quality depends heavily on the machines used and the expertise of the research team. Modern and well-maintained machines produce clearer and more brilliant stones.

⚙️ 3. starting materials & consumables:
The quality of the seed crystals (seeds) and the gases used influences the purity of the laboratory diamond. In addition, consumables such as reactor chambers must be replaced regularly, as worn parts can lead to contamination.

📈 4. post-treatment & quality control:
Some manufacturers optimize their stones with additional processes to improve color and purity. Reputable suppliers rely on strict quality controls, while cheaper producers bring stones with undesirable color nuances or inclusions onto the market.

✅ Conclusion:
Not all laboratory diamonds are the same! High-quality manufacturers invest in research, state-of-the-art technology and careful production processes, while low-cost suppliers often make compromises. It is therefore crucial to only buy laboratory diamonds from reputable sources with reliable certificates.

Why are some laboratory diamonds milky or less brilliant?

Some stones have internal stresses or “graining”, which leads to a milky appearance. Inclusions and growth structures can also refract the light and reduce the brilliance. High-quality laboratory diamonds with an excellent cut reflect light optimally.

Is a GIA or IGI certificate important for laboratory diamonds?

Yes! A GIA or IGI certificate confirms that the diamond meets genuine quality standards. It contains important information on color, clarity, cut and carat weight. Dubious suppliers sometimes sell laboratory diamonds without a certificate or with falsified papers – so always make sure you are dealing with a reputable laboratory!

Is everything on the laboratory diamond certificate? Is it enough if I look at the certificate?

No, the certificate alone is not enough. There are many important aspects that are not listed on the certificate, such as the actual brilliance, the growth pattern or any treatment methods. There are also forged certificates and attempts at fraud in which moissanite or inferior stones are passed off as high-quality laboratory diamonds. It is therefore essential to buy from a reputable supplier who uses trustworthy laboratories such as GIA or IGI and checks the quality of the stones themselves.

How do I recognize a genuine laboratory diamond?

A genuine laboratory diamond is chemically and physically identical to a natural diamond. To avoid fakes such as moissanite or CZ, the diamond should be certified by a renowned laboratory such as GIA or IGI. The retailer should also be trustworthy and offer transparency regarding origin and quality.

Why are not all laboratory diamonds the same?

The quality of laboratory diamonds depends on the manufacturing process, the technologies and the source materials. Some manufacturers grow their diamonds faster, which can lead to more inclusions. The color control and purity of the final product also vary. High-quality laboratory diamonds have a uniform color and high transparency.

Can laboratory diamonds increase in value?

Lab-grown diamonds are primarily known for their affordability and ethical origin. The value can fluctuate as, unlike natural diamonds, they are not rare. However, particularly large and rare shades are gaining in importance, especially with high purity and certification.

Are there fake certificates for laboratory diamonds?

Yes, there are fake certificates and dubious dealers who sell moissanite or inferior stones as laboratory diamonds. To be on the safe side, the certificate should come from recognized laboratories such as GIA or IGI and the engraving number on the diamond should match the certificate.

How exactly are lab-grown diamonds cultivated?

The laboratory diamond growth process imitates natural growth in the Earth’s interior (HPHT) or in interstellar gas clouds and ice planets such as Neptune and Uranus (CVD). Carbon crystallization takes weeks to months. The rough diamond is then cut and polished. This procedure has various advantages: Green World Diamond’s laboratory diamonds are up to 95 percent cheaper, environmentally friendly and ethically harmless. We therefore fulfill modern ESG criteria. We can rule out “blood diamonds” that are mined under questionable conditions. And for one carat of mined diamond, around 250 tons of rock are extracted and 500 liters of water are polluted. “Solar lab diamonds”, on the other hand, are often CO2-neutral.

What is the difference between CVD and HPHT laboratory diamonds?

• CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition): This method produces diamonds layer by layer under controlled conditions. CVD diamonds are often more stable in terms of color, but sometimes require post-treatment.
• HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature): Here, high pressure and high temperature are used to simulate natural growth conditions. HPHT diamonds often have a higher purity and richer colors.

Can a laboratory diamond lose its shine?

No. Laboratory diamonds consist of pure carbon in crystalline form, just like natural diamonds. They are extremely hard (10 on the Mohs scale) and retain their shine forever. Dirt and grease can dull the surface, but with a simple cleaning (e.g. spirit, warm soapy water and a soft brush) it will always remain shiny.

How does a laboratory diamond differ from a moissanite?

Although moissanite is often sold as a diamond alternative, it is a completely different material with a different refraction of light. Moissanites often have a stronger “rainbow effect” and are massively less valuable. A genuine laboratory diamond shows classic white fire and should be confirmed with a certificate from GIA or IGI.

Are laboratory diamonds sustainable?

Yes, laboratory diamonds have a significantly smaller ecological footprint than natural diamonds. They are produced under controlled conditions without environmental destruction or conflict financing. However, there are differences here too – some manufacturers rely on 100% renewable energy, while others use a lot of electricity from fossil sources.

Why should I only buy laboratory diamonds from a reputable dealer?

Because there are forgeries, manipulated stones and poor quality on the market. Reputable dealers offer:
✅ Genuine certificates (GIA, IGI, HRD)
✅ Precise information on cut, purity and color
✅ Origin and production methods
✅ No hidden moissanite or simulated diamonds

If the price sounds too good to be true, it usually is!

Why are some laboratory diamonds cheaper than others?

Price differences result from various factors:

🔹 Quality: Better color, clarity and cut mean higher prices. Diamonds with visible inclusions or a weaker cut are cheaper, but reflect less light and sparkle less.

🔹 Manufacturing process: High-quality laboratory diamonds grow slowly and in a controlled manner, resulting in better crystal structures and less internal stress. Fast-grown stones may have more inclusions or undesirable color shading (so-called shades or tints).

🔹 Hidden color casts: Some lab diamonds have subtle brown, gray, green or blue tints that are not always mentioned on the certificate. These can affect the brilliance and are a reason for lower prices.

🔹 Inclusions with long-term risk: While many inclusions are only visually disturbing, there are some that reach the surface or create internal stresses. These can affect the longevity of the diamondin the long term, as they can lead to cracks in the event of impact or setting tension.

🔹 Certification: GIA and IGI-certified stones are often more expensive as they are subject to strict tests. Without renowned certification, there is a risk of inferior quality or manipulated information.

Cheap laboratory diamonds are not always a bargain – there are often differences in quality that are not apparent at first glance. That’s why a reputable dealer with transparent information is particularly important!

How do I recognize a high-quality laboratory diamond?

A quality stone should:
✅ Have a GIA or IGI certificate.
✅ Have a high color grade (D-F) and excellent cut.
✅ Have no strong inclusions or surface features.
✅ Have no disturbing color casts such as brown, grey or green.

But beware: not all quality features are visible on the certificate!

• Shades & tints (brown, gray, green, blue) are often not listed. A stone with color undertones can be visually undesirable despite a good rating.
• Inclusions can reach the surface, which can affect the durability of the stone.
• Milky or blurred optics (“haze”, “graining”) are not always mentioned in the certificate, but can reduce the brilliance.

💡 Tip: An expert with experience can help to recognize genuine quality – just looking at the certificate is often not enough!