Can a Jeweler Tell The Difference Between Lab Grown Diamonds

You walk into a jewelry store, look at two sparkling diamonds side by side — one mined, one lab grown. Could you tell them apart? The truth is, you can’t. Neither can most jewelers at a glance. Lab grown diamonds look identical to natural diamonds, sharing the same sparkle, clarity, and brilliance.

So how do jewelers tell the difference? Let’s start with what the eye sees — and what only advanced tools can uncover.

To the Naked Eye: No Visible Difference

When it comes to appearance, lab grown and natural diamonds are indistinguishable.

• Sparkle and fire: Both dazzle with the same brilliance, fire, and scintillation.

• Clarity and color: Graded on the same scale (D–Z for color, Flawless–Included for clarity).

• Cuts and styles: From round brilliants to fancy shapes, both can be cut and polished in the same way.

That’s why when you’re shopping, you won’t “see” which is which. Both are real diamonds.

Subtle Visual Clues (for Experts)

Though invisible to most, trained eyes sometimes notice patterns hinting at lab creation.

• Inclusions: Lab grown diamonds may contain tiny metallic inclusions from their growth process, while natural diamonds often have mineral or crystal inclusions.

• Growth patterns: Under magnification, lab diamonds can show striations or patterns that differ from natural diamonds’ crystal growth.

• Fluorescence: Some lab grown stones display unusual fluorescence under UV light.

• Microscopic growth lines: Viewed under a microscope, these lines can appear straighter or more structured in lab diamonds than in natural stones.

• Girdle inscriptions: Many lab grown diamonds are laser-inscribed on the girdle with an identifying mark or certificate number.

These aren’t things you’d see in casual inspection — they’re details gemologists are trained to identify.

The Technical Side: Tools That Reveal the Truth

Even for seasoned jewelers, specialized equipment is required to confirm if a diamond is lab grown.

Diamond Testers

Standard testers confirm a diamond is real, but can’t separate lab from natural.

Spectroscopic Analysis

Reveals unique absorption patterns from lab growth methods (HPHT or CVD).

Advanced Microscopy

High-powered microscopes highlight growth lines and metallic inclusions not found in mined stones.

Certification

Leading labs like GIA or IGI provide certificates clearly stating whether a diamond is natural or lab grown.

Why This Matters for Buyers

For you, the shopper, the takeaway is simple: both are genuine diamonds, and you can choose confidently based on your priorities.

• If you want rarity and tradition, natural diamonds may appeal most.

• If you want more carat weight or quality for your budget, lab grown diamonds are an excellent choice.

Either way, a grading report from a trusted source ensures you know exactly what you’re buying.

FAQs About Identifying Lab Grown Diamonds

Do lab grown diamonds look different over time?

No. Lab grown diamonds age the same as natural ones — they don’t fade, cloud, or change color with time.

Can lab grown diamonds be insured the same way as natural ones?

Yes. Most insurers treat them the same, though you’ll need to specify “lab grown” on your policy.

What’s the most reliable way to know?

Certification from a gemological lab like GIA or IGI.

Conclusion: Sparkle Beyond Origin

So, can a jeweler tell the difference between lab grown diamonds? Not just by looking. Both shine with the same brilliance and beauty. Only advanced tools and gemological reports can separate one origin from the other.

At Worthmore Jewelers, we embrace both. Whether you’re drawn to natural diamonds or love the value and innovation of lab grown, our team is here to help you find the diamond that fits your story.

Discover our unique collections today. Visit us in Midtown Atlanta or Decatur, GA.