Lab-Grown Diamonds: Your Complete Guide

At Kama Jewels, every diamond we craft is lab-grown and set in recycled gold — because we believe fine jewellery shouldn't come at the earth's expense. If you're new to lab-grown diamonds, this guide answers everything you need to know before making a purchase.

What Are Lab-Grown Diamonds?

Lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds — chemically, physically, and optically identical to mined diamonds. They are created in controlled laboratory environments that replicate the natural conditions under which diamonds form deep within the earth.

Two primary methods are used:

  • High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT): Mimics the extreme pressure and heat of the earth's mantle, transforming a carbon seed into a fully formed diamond crystal.

  • Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD): A carbon-rich gas is ionised in a chamber, causing carbon atoms to crystallise layer by layer onto a diamond seed, growing a gem-quality stone over several weeks.

The result is a diamond with the same hardness (10 on the Mohs scale), the same brilliance, and the same fire as any stone pulled from the ground. 

Certification: IGI & GIA Grading

Every Kama Jewels diamond is independently certified by world-leading gemological laboratories. A certificate is your guarantee of a diamond's quality and authenticity.

The 4Cs — What Your Certificate Grades

  • Cut: Determines how well the diamond reflects light. Grades range from Excellent to Poor. An Excellent cut maximises brilliance and sparkle.
  • Colour: Graded D (colourless) to Z (light yellow or brown). D–F stones are colourless; G–J are near-colourless and popular for excellent value.
  • Clarity: Measures internal inclusions and surface blemishes on a scale from Flawless (FL) to Included (I3). VS1–VS2 and SI1 grades are eye-clean and offer great value.
  • Carat: The weight of the diamond. One carat = 0.2 grams. Larger carat weight increases value, but cut, colour, and clarity determine whether a diamond truly shines.

IGI (International Gemological Institute)

IGI is the world's largest independent gemological laboratory and the leading authority for lab-grown diamond certification. An IGI certificate confirms the stone's 4Cs, confirms it is lab-grown, and details its growth method — giving you complete transparency.

GIA (Gemological Institute of America)

GIA established the global standard for diamond grading. Recognised universally by jewellers and consumers, a GIA certificate is one of the most trusted assurances of diamond quality available.

All certificates are available upon request with your purchase.

Ethical & Sustainability Benefits

Choosing a lab-grown diamond is a considered, conscious decision. Here's why it matters:

  • No mining impact: Traditional diamond mining displaces communities, disrupts ecosystems, and generates significant carbon emissions. Lab-grown diamonds require none of this.

  • Conflict-free, always: Our diamonds carry zero risk of funding conflict or exploitative labour — a guarantee that is impossible to make with certainty for mined stones.

  • Recycled gold settings: Every Kama Jewels piece is set in recycled gold, further reducing the environmental footprint of your jewellery.

  • Traceable origin: You know exactly how and where your diamond was made — something the mined supply chain rarely offers with confidence.

  • Significantly lower carbon footprint: While lab-grown production does use energy, responsibly sourced renewable energy makes the process far cleaner than conventional mining operations.

Lab-Grown vs Mined Diamonds: At a Glance

FeatureLab-GrownMinedChemical compositionIdentical (pure carbon)Identical (pure carbon)Hardness10 / 10 (Mohs scale)10 / 10 (Mohs scale)Certified by IGI / GIAYesYesEthical sourcingGuaranteedDifficult to verifyEnvironmental impactSignificantly lowerHighValue for size30–50% more accessiblePremium pricing

How to Choose Your Diamond

Not sure where to start? Use these principles:

  • Prioritise cut above all else. A well-cut diamond of lower colour or clarity will outshine a poorly cut stone of higher grades.

  • For colourless look, choose D–F. For excellent value without visible difference, G–H is the sweet spot.

  • For clarity, VS2 or SI1 is usually eye-clean — you won't see inclusions without magnification.

  • Consider the setting. A halo or pavé setting can make a smaller carat stone appear significantly larger.

Caring for Your Diamond Jewellery

  • Clean regularly with warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft toothbrush to maintain brilliance.

  • Store pieces separately in a soft pouch or lined jewellery box to prevent scratches.

  • Remove jewellery before swimming, exercising, or applying lotions and perfumes.

  • Have your settings checked by a jeweller annually to ensure prongs and bezels remain secure.

Still Have Questions?

Visit ourFAQ pagefor more answers, orget in touchwith our team — we're always happy to help you find the perfect piece with complete confidence.