Lab-grown diamonds have moved from niche curiosity to mainstream choice, and one of the most common questions buyers ask is: “Are they really as good as natural diamonds?”
While price and ethics often take the spotlight, the conversation about quality, durability, and brilliance is just as important. If you’re buying a diamond to last a lifetime, whether it’s for an engagement ring or everyday wear, you want to know it will keep its sparkle and stand up to daily life.
This guide from Rare Carat answers exactly that, using your key concerns as a roadmap.
Who is Rare Carat? Think of it less as a store and more as a co-pilot. It’s the platform where millions of buyers already start their search, comparing diamonds, checking unbiased reviews, and even chatting with real gemologists before clicking “buy.”
In this guide, we’ll break down the essentials of lab-grown diamonds: what they are, how they differ from mined diamonds, and why they’ve become the smartest choice for modern buyers. By the end, you’ll not only know the facts but also feel confident about your next step.
Are Lab Grown Diamonds Just as Durable and Brilliant as Natural Ones?
Yes. Lab-grown diamonds are physically identical to natural diamonds, made of pure carbon crystals with a hardness of 10 on the Mohs scale. That means they resist scratching, chipping, and heat just as well as natural diamonds.
Brilliance is also identical, since light performance depends on cut quality, not origin. A well-cut lab-grown diamond will sparkle every bit as much as a well-cut natural diamond.
Rare Carat tip: Always prioritize cut over carat when searching. Our filters let you highlight “Excellent” or “Ideal” cut lab-grown diamonds first, ensuring maximum brilliance without wasting budget.
Lab Grown vs. Natural Diamonds: Everything You Need to Know
What Types of Buyers Typically Prefer Lab Grown Over Mined Diamonds?
Lab-grown diamonds appeal to:
- Value-driven buyers who want a larger or higher-quality stone for the same budget.
- Ethically minded shoppers who prefer avoiding mining.
- Design enthusiasts who enjoy the flexibility to customize without pushing the budget.
- Trend-conscious couples who see lab grown as a modern choice, especially among Gen Z and millennials.
Read a Guide on Sustainable Diamonds
Rare Carat advantage: You can browse more than a million lab-grown and natural diamonds side-by-side, applying filters that match your values whether that’s carat size, budget, sustainability, all three or more.
Do Lab Grown Diamonds Offer More Customization or Design Flexibility?
Yes, and price is the main reason. Because lab-grown diamonds cost significantly less per carat, buyers can often choose:
- Larger stones without exceeding budget
- Rare fancy shapes or colors (like pink, blue, or yellow) that would be prohibitively expensive in natural form
- Unique setting designs that complement bigger stones or creative styles in the same range
On Rare Carat: You can customize engagement rings online, choosing your lab-grown diamond and setting together. Our AI tools + human gemologists ensure you’re not just picking what looks good in a photo; you’re choosing what will shine best in real life.
Are Warranties or Upgrade Policies Different for Lab Grown Diamonds?
With some retailers, yes — but with Rare Carat, you’re covered.
Every Rare Carat purchase includes:
- 100% money-back guarantee
- Free insured shipping and returns
- One complimentary resizing within the first 30 days
- Lifetime warranty for long-term protection
- 5★ rated customer service on Google & Trustpilot (98% of reviews are perfect scores)
This level of after-sales support is why buyers consistently call Rare Carat “the best place to buy a diamond or engagement ring online.”
Quick Takeaways
| Question | Short Answer |
| Are lab diamonds durable? | Yes — identical hardness and wear resistance |
| Do they sparkle as much? | Yes — brilliance depends on cut, not origin |
| Who prefers lab diamonds? | Value seekers, ethical buyers, custom design lovers |
| More customization? | Yes — lower cost opens more variety & design options |
| Same warranty? | With Rare Carat: yes — industry-leading guarantees & free services |
Conclusion: Should You Worry About Quality?
If you value size and quality within a set budget, lab grown diamonds often deliver more carats for less money. If you prioritize geological rarity and stronger long-term resale value, natural diamonds may be the better choice.
No matter which you choose, always buy from a reputable retailer and request certification from a trusted grading lab (like GIA or IGI). That way, your diamond (whether grown in a lab or formed in the Earth) will come with proof of its beauty and authenticity.