Natural diamonds and laboratory-grown diamonds are diamond. A diamond simulant, such as cubic zirconia or moissanite, is a different material that resembles diamond. Knowing the category is the starting point for a clear purchase.
The three categories
| Category | What it is | What to ask |
|---|---|---|
| Natural diamond | Diamond formed through geological processes. | Natural origin, treatment, quality and report details. |
| Laboratory-grown diamond | Diamond grown by a technological process, commonly HPHT or CVD. | Laboratory-grown disclosure, growth or treatment information and the report’s scope. |
| Simulant | Another material used for a diamond-like appearance. | The actual material name and appropriate care. |
Appearance alone is not enough
A clear-looking stone or a basic diamond tester is not sufficient to settle every identification question. Laboratory-grown diamonds can contain inclusions too. Appropriate gemological testing and specialist instruments help distinguish categories.
Clear descriptions matter
Ask for the material category in writing, then compare the particular stone’s appearance, cut, condition and documentation. Natural zircon and laboratory-made cubic zirconia are also different materials despite their similar-sounding names.
Compare current offers
Our original article discussed market prices from 2018–2019. Those figures are not current quotations and have been removed from this comparison. Compare today’s individual offers; broad claims about environmental impact or future resale value need evidence specific to the product.
Illustrations and examples
Questions buyers ask
Is laboratory-grown diamond a simulant?
No. Laboratory-grown diamond is diamond. A simulant is another material with a diamond-like appearance.
Are zircon and cubic zirconia the same?
No. Natural zircon and cubic zirconia are different materials.
Further reading
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