What lab made diamonds actually are
Lab made diamonds are real diamonds grown in controlled environments rather than mined from the earth. They share the same chemical structure, optical properties, and hardness as mined diamonds. The difference lies in origin, not in substance.
You should think of them as manufactured crystals rather than imitations. They are not cubic zirconia. They are not moissanite. A diamond tester reads them as diamond because they are diamond.
This matters because every evaluation rule that applies to mined stones also applies here. Cut, color, clarity, and carat still define quality. Certification still matters. And grading differences still affect what you pay and what you get.
Why certification matters more than origin
When you buy a diamond you are not just buying carbon. You are buying a grading opinion. That opinion determines price, resale potential, and how honest the seller is being with you.
Certification solves three problems for you.
- It creates a shared language for quality
- It limits exaggeration by sellers
- It lets you compare stones across vendors
Without a trusted lab report you are relying on descriptions that may not be consistent or verifiable.
This is where the comparison between GIA and IGI becomes important.
GIA and IGI explained in plain terms
Gia vs igi is the Gemological Institute of America. It is a nonprofit organization that developed the modern grading system used worldwide. It is known for conservative grading and internal consistency.
IGI is the International Gemological Institute. It is a for profit lab with a strong presence in the lab grown diamond market. It grades a high volume of stones and is widely accepted in retail.
Both labs issue detailed reports. Both measure the same core characteristics. The difference lies in how strict they are and how the market interprets their results.
How grading differences affect what you pay
A small grading difference can mean a large price difference.
For example a diamond graded as F color by IGI might receive a G or H color if graded by GIA. That one grade shift changes value even if the stone itself does not change.
This does not mean IGI is inaccurate. It means its thresholds can be slightly more flexible in certain categories.
If you compare stones only by the report without understanding the lab behind it you may think you are getting a better deal than you actually are.
Color and clarity are where gaps show most
Cut grading tends to align closely between labs. Color and clarity are more subjective. This is where grading philosophy matters.
GIA tends to require stronger visual evidence before assigning higher grades. IGI may allow borderline stones into higher categories.
For you this means that an IGI report should be read with a bit more scrutiny. Look at images. Ask for videos. Do not rely on the letter grade alone.
How this impacts lab grown diamond buying
The lab grown diamond market grew fast. Retailers needed faster turnaround times and lower grading costs. IGI filled that gap and became dominant in this segment.
Many lab made diamonds on the market today carry IGI reports. This does not make them inferior. It does mean you should adjust expectations.
If you want the strictest possible assessment choose a GIA graded stone. If you are comfortable evaluating the stone visually and want broader selection IGI is workable.
The key is consistency. Compare IGI stones to other IGI stones. Compare GIA stones to other GIA stones. Do not mix assumptions.
How to read a report without being misled
A certificate is a tool not a verdict. Use it correctly.
- Focus on cut quality first
- Check measurements not just carat
- Read comments for growth remnants or treatments
For lab grown stones pay attention to growth method. CVD and HPHT have different visual traits. A report usually notes this.
Example
Two stones both weigh 1.50 carats. One has a shallow cut and large spread. The other has ideal proportions. The second will look brighter even if the report grades look similar.
Price differences you should expect
Lab made diamonds usually cost less than mined ones. Within that category GIA graded stones often carry a premium.
This premium is not about beauty. It is about confidence and resale perception.
If you are buying for long term wear and personal enjoyment you may value appearance over lab name. If you are thinking about future trade or resale the market tends to favor GIA.
There is no correct choice. There is only alignment with your priorities.
Common mistakes buyers make
Many buyers focus on the report header rather than the stone.
They assume higher grades always mean better appearance. They assume certification removes all risk. It does not.
Another mistake is ignoring return policies. A good return window lets you verify the stone in real lighting conditions.
Finally some buyers chase the lowest price without understanding why it is low. Price gaps usually have reasons.
When IGI makes practical sense
IGI graded lab made diamonds can be a good choice when you want variety and speed. Custom designs often rely on IGI stones due to availability.
If you review the stone visually and the seller provides clear media IGI can serve you well.
The key is not blind trust. It is informed evaluation.
When GIA is worth the extra cost
Choose GIA when you want maximum grading discipline. Choose it when you do not want to interpret borderline calls.
If you are less experienced and prefer conservative assessments GIA reduces decision pressure.
This is especially useful for larger stones where small grading shifts have bigger value impact.
How to decide based on your goals
Ask yourself three questions.
- Do I value strict grading or wider selection
- Am I comfortable judging visuals myself
- Is future resale important to me
Your answers point to the right lab for you. Not the internet. Not a salesperson.
FAQ
Are lab made diamonds real diamonds?
Yes. They have the same physical and chemical properties as mined diamonds. The difference is how they are formed.
Is IGI less trustworthy than GIA?
IGI is widely used and accepted. It is slightly more flexible in some grades. Trust depends on how well you understand the report.
Should I avoid IGI for larger stones?
Not necessarily. You should inspect visuals carefully and compare pricing realistically. Size alone does not make IGI unsuitable.