Diamonds have long been the universal symbol of love, strength, and endurance. But in recent decades, a new chapter in diamond history has emerged—one that blends science, sustainability, and beauty: lab-grown diamonds. Once the domain of research labs and industrial applications, lab-grown diamonds have evolved into stunning, high-quality gemstones that rival their mined counterparts in both appearance and value. At Johnston Jewelers, we proudly offer both natural and lab-grown diamonds, and we’re here to help you understand the story behind these modern marvels.
A Brief History of Lab-Grown Diamonds
The quest to create diamonds in a laboratory began in the 19th century, as scientists tried to replicate the high-pressure, high-temperature (HPHT) conditions that form natural diamonds deep within the Earth’s mantle. While early experiments were unsuccessful, progress accelerated in the 20th century. In 1954, General Electric successfully produced the first lab-grown diamond using the HPHT process—but these early diamonds were small, yellowish, and used for industrial cutting tools rather than jewelry.
It wasn’t until the early 2000s that advancements in both HPHT and Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) techniques made it possible to grow gem-quality diamonds large and clear enough for use in fine jewelry. As technology improved, so did the clarity, size, and availability of lab-grown diamonds—paving the way for their entrance into the bridal and fashion jewelry markets.
How Lab-Grown Diamonds Are Made
There are two main processes used to grow diamonds in a lab:
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High Pressure, High Temperature (HPHT): Mimics the natural conditions deep in the Earth, compressing carbon into a crystal structure using intense pressure and heat.
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Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD): Grows diamond crystals layer by layer in a vacuum chamber using carbon-rich gas and a diamond seed.
Both methods create real diamonds—identical in atomic structure, physical properties, and brilliance to natural diamonds. In fact, even professional gemologists require specialized equipment to distinguish between the two.
Why Choose Lab-Grown Diamonds?
Lab-grown diamonds have grown in popularity for a number of important reasons:
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Ethical sourcing: Because they’re created in controlled lab environments, lab-grown diamonds are guaranteed conflict-free, making them an ethical choice for socially conscious shoppers.
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Environmental impact: Growing diamonds requires significantly less land disturbance and water usage than traditional mining, reducing the environmental footprint.
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Value: Lab-grown diamonds typically cost 30–50% less than mined diamonds of the same quality—allowing you to purchase a larger or higher-grade stone within the same budget.
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Customization: Since labs can control the growth process, clients can request specific carat sizes, shapes, and qualities, often with shorter lead times.
How They Compare to Natural Diamonds
Visually and chemically, lab-grown diamonds are indistinguishable from natural ones. They possess the same hardness (10 on the Mohs scale), fire, and brilliance. The only key difference lies in their origin: natural diamonds are formed over billions of years underground, while lab-grown diamonds are created in a matter of weeks in a high-tech facility.
At Johnston Jewelers, we believe the choice between natural and lab-grown is personal. Some customers value the timeless history and rarity of earth-mined stones. Others appreciate the modern innovation and affordability of lab-grown options. Both are beautiful, lasting, and worthy of life’s most important moments.
Lab-Grown Diamonds at Johnston Jewelers
We offer a curated collection of lab-grown diamond jewelry, including:
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Engagement rings with lab-grown center stones
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Lab-grown diamond earrings and pendants
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Custom-designed pieces for anniversaries, milestones, or personal style
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Side-by-side comparisons of lab-grown and natural stones in store
Our knowledgeable staff will walk you through the pros and cons, answer your questions, and help you find the perfect diamond—whatever your preferences or budget.
A Diamond for the Modern Era
Lab-grown diamonds represent the intersection of science, ethics, and style. They’re not “fake” or “simulants”—they’re real diamonds, created by human ingenuity. Whether you’re drawn to their sustainability, their brilliance, or the opportunity to go bigger without breaking your budget, lab-grown diamonds offer a stunning alternative that doesn’t compromise on beauty or integrity.