The rise of lab-grown diamonds has sparked a common and important question among buyers: are lab-grown diamonds truly real diamonds, or are they simply a more sophisticated version of cubic zirconia?
The confusion is understandable. Both lab-grown diamonds and diamond simulants like cubic zirconia are alternatives to natural diamonds, but they are fundamentally different in composition, value, and performance. Let’s break it down clearly and scientifically so you can make an informed decision.
What Makes a Diamond “Real”?
A real diamond is defined by three key characteristics:
- It is made of pure carbon atoms
- The atoms are arranged in a crystal lattice structure
- It exhibits unique physical properties such as extreme hardness and high thermal conductivity
Both natural diamonds and lab grown diamonds meet all three of these criteria. The only difference lies in how they are formed:
- Natural diamonds form over billions of years beneath the Earth’s surface
- Lab-grown diamonds are created in controlled environments using advanced methods like High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) or Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD)
Because their structure and composition are identical, lab-grown diamonds are 100% real diamonds.
What Is Cubic Zirconia?
Cubic zirconia (CZ) is a diamond simulant, not a diamond. It is made from zirconium dioxide, a completely different material.
While cubic zirconia is designed to visually resemble a diamond, it differs in several key ways:
- Chemical composition: Not carbon-based
- Hardness: Softer than diamonds (8–8.5 vs. 10 on the Mohs scale)
- Durability: More prone to scratches and clouding over time
- Brilliance: Often appears overly “rainbow-like” compared to a diamond’s natural sparkle
In short, cubic zirconia is an imitation—whereas lab-grown diamonds are the real thing.
Lab-Grown Diamonds vs. Cubic Zirconia: Key Differences
Lab-grown diamonds and cubic zirconia differ significantly across several key factors, from their chemical makeup to their long-term value.
- Composition: Lab-grown diamonds are made of pure carbon, identical to natural diamonds. Cubic zirconia is made from zirconium dioxide.
- Hardness: Lab-grown diamonds score a perfect 10 on the Mohs scale, making them extremely resistant to scratches. Cubic zirconia ranks lower, at 8–8.5, making it more susceptible to wear.
- Durability: A lab-grown diamond will maintain its brilliance for a lifetime, while cubic zirconia can become cloudy or scratched over time with regular use.
- Brilliance: Lab-grown diamonds share the same natural sparkle as mined diamonds. Cubic zirconia often has a more flashy, "rainbow-like" effect.
- Price: While more affordable than natural diamonds, lab-grown diamonds hold significant value. Cubic zirconia is very inexpensive in comparison.
- Classification: Lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds. Cubic zirconia is a simulant designed to look like a diamond.
Why Do People Confuse Them?
There are a few reasons why this misconception persists:
1. Lower Price Point
Lab-grown diamonds are significantly more affordable than natural diamonds—sometimes by 30–70%. This leads some people to assume they must be “fake,” similar to cubic zirconia.
2. Newness in the Market
Lab-grown diamonds are a relatively recent mainstream option, so many consumers are still unfamiliar with how they are made.
3. Marketing Language
Terms like “synthetic” or “man-made” can create confusion, even though they still refer to real diamonds.
How Can You Tell the Difference?
Visually, it is very difficult to distinguish between a lab-grown diamond, a natural diamond, and even cubic zirconia without tools. However:
- Cubic zirconia often appears too perfect and may lose clarity over time
- Lab-grown diamonds look identical to natural diamonds and maintain their brilliance indefinitely
Professional jewelers use advanced equipment and certification from organizations like the Gemological Institute of America or International Gemological Institute to verify authenticity and origin.
Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Worth It?
Lab-grown diamonds offer several compelling advantages:
- Better value for money: Larger size or higher quality for the same budget
- Ethical sourcing: No mining involved
- Environmental considerations: Generally lower impact than traditional mining
- Identical durability: Just as strong and long-lasting as natural diamonds
For buyers focused on appearance, size, and cost-efficiency, lab-grown diamonds are an excellent option.
However, natural diamonds may still appeal to those who value:
- Geological rarity
- Traditional symbolism
- Long-term resale perception
Lab-grown diamonds are not fancy cubic zirconia. They are real diamonds in every scientific and practical sense. The only difference is their origin, not their identity.
Cubic zirconia, on the other hand, is simply a diamond lookalike. While it may serve as a budget-friendly alternative, it does not offer the durability, brilliance, or authenticity of a true diamond. Understanding this distinction ensures you can shop with confidence and avoid common misconceptions in today’s evolving diamond market.
Qakare: Your Trusted Source for Lab-Grown Diamonds
Looking for a lab grown diamond in Calgary? Qakare offers a premium selection that combines beauty, value, and transparency. Specializing in high-quality lab-grown diamonds, we provide the brilliance of natural diamonds without the traditional price tag.
Explore our exceptional range of lab diamond engagement rings, from 2ct to 5ct. Each one features top-tier D, E, and F colour grades with VVS to VS clarity. To give you complete flexibility, our pieces are available in 10k, 14k, and 18k gold, as well as platinum.
At Qakare, we believe in honest guidance and certified quality, ensuring you understand exactly what you’re buying. Whether you’re seeking a larger stone, prioritizing ethical sourcing, or simply want the best value, we're here to help you find the perfect diamond.