Two origins, one
A lab-grown diamond is a real diamond — identical in carbon, crystal structure, hardness and brilliance to one formed in the earth. The difference is where it grew, and that difference is worth stating plainly. DGI grades both to the same 4C standard and records the origin clearly on every report.
How they
Natural diamond
- Formed over billions of years deep within the earth.
- Finite, non-renewable supply.
- Often carries a resale and collector premium.
- Same optical and physical properties as lab-grown.
- Origin stated on the DGI report as Earth Mined.
Lab-grown diamond
- Grown in weeks by HPHT or CVD processes.
- Chemically and structurally identical to natural.
- Typically more accessible in price for the same grade.
- Graded on the very same 4C scale.
- Origin stated on the DGI report as Laboratory Grown.
How DGI tells them
The eye and a loupe cannot separate the two. Correct identification relies on calibrated gemological instruments and trained gemologists.
Growth structure
Strain and growth patterns under polarised light differ between mined and grown crystals.
Fluorescence
Reaction to ultraviolet light can reveal characteristic patterns of CVD or HPHT growth.
Spectroscopy
The absorption spectrum records trace elements and defects that betray a stone’s origin.
Inscription
On request, the girdle is laser-inscribed with the report number so stone and certificate always match.
Both natural and laboratory-grown diamonds are genuine diamonds. DGI grades each to the same international 4C standard and states the origin clearly on the report so that buyers and owners always know exactly what they hold.