Lab-grown diamonds are becoming the top choice for many buyers in Australia. But just like mined diamonds, not all lab-grown diamonds are the same quality.
So how do you know if you’re getting a high-quality lab-grown diamond? The answer lies in certification, clarity, and other key factors. Let’s break it down in simple terms.
1. Check for Certification: The Most Important Step
When buying a lab-grown diamond, always ask for a certification from a reputable gemological lab. This ensures that the diamond is real, high-quality, and graded accurately.
Best Certification Labs for Lab-Grown Diamonds:
-
IGI (International Gemological Institute) – One of the most trusted names for lab-grown diamonds.
-
GIA (Gemological Institute of America) – Known for grading both natural and lab-grown diamonds.
-
GCAL (Gem Certification & Assurance Lab) – Provides highly detailed diamond grading reports.
💡 Tip: A certified diamond means you’re getting exactly what you paid for—no surprises!
2. Understand Clarity: What to Look For
Like mined diamonds, lab-grown diamonds have natural inclusions (tiny imperfections). The fewer the inclusions, the clearer and more beautiful the diamond looks.
Clarity Grading Chart (From Best to Least Clear):
-
FL (Flawless) – No inclusions, extremely rare.
-
IF (Internally Flawless) – No visible inclusions under magnification.
-
VVS1 & VVS2 (Very Very Slightly Included) – Very tiny inclusions, hard to see.
-
VS1 & VS2 (Very Slightly Included) – Small inclusions, barely visible.
-
SI1 & SI2 (Slightly Included) – Some inclusions visible to the naked eye.
💎 Best Choice: A VS1 or VS2 clarity lab-grown diamond is usually the best balance between quality and price.
3. Look at Cut: The Sparkle Factor
Even the clearest diamond won’t look amazing if the cut is poor. The cut affects how much light reflects inside the diamond, making it sparkle.
Best Cuts for Maximum Brilliance:
✔ Round Brilliant – The sparkliest and most popular cut.
✔ Princess Cut – Sharp, modern, and elegant.
✔ Oval & Pear – Great for an elongated look.
✔ Cushion & Radiant – Extra fire and shine.
🔹 Avoid poorly cut diamonds—they will look dull even if they are high clarity!
4. Pay Attention to Colour: The Whiteness Scale
Lab-grown diamonds come in different shades, from completely colourless to slightly tinted.
Diamond Colour Scale (From Best to Least White):
-
D-F – Colourless (best quality, most expensive).
-
G-H – Near colourless (great value, still looks white).
-
I-J – Slight warmth, visible tint in larger sizes.
✨ Best Choice: G or H colour lab-grown diamonds offer a near-colourless look at a better price.
5. Carat Size: Bigger Isn’t Always Better
Carat weight affects size and price, but a well-cut 1.5-carat diamond can look bigger than a poorly cut 2-carat diamond.
💡 Smart Shopping Tip: Instead of focusing only on carat weight, choose a well-cut diamond that shines beautifully.
Real-Life Example: How Emma Chose Her Dream Diamond
Emma wanted a 1.5-carat lab-grown diamond for her engagement ring but had a budget. Instead of just choosing the biggest stone, she picked:
✔ VS1 clarity – Almost flawless, no visible inclusions.
✔ G colour – Near colourless but much cheaper than a D colour.
✔ Excellent cut – Maximum sparkle.
She saved money while still getting a stunning, high-quality diamond.
Final Thoughts: Buy Smart & Shine Bright
Choosing a lab-grown diamond doesn’t have to be complicated! Just remember:
✅ Get a certified diamond (IGI, GIA, or GCAL).
✅ Look for VS1 or VS2 clarity for a clean, beautiful diamond.
✅ Choose an excellent or ideal cut for the best sparkle.
✅ Go for G-H colour for a white, budget-friendly option.
Shop smart and enjoy the beauty of a high-quality, lab-grown diamond!
