Natural diamonds, lab-grown diamonds and simulants: what is the difference?

The word “real” does not answer every question about a diamond. Natural and laboratory-grown diamonds are both diamond, but their origins differ. Moissanite and cubic zirconia (CZ) are different materials used to resemble diamond.

Understand the three groups

Natural diamonds form in nature. Lab-grown diamonds are created in a laboratory and have essentially the same chemical, physical and optical properties. HPHT and CVD describe growth methods, not quality grades. Simulants resemble diamond but are not diamond.

Can a simple tester tell the difference?

A basic screening device does not necessarily separate natural from lab-grown diamonds. Neither appearance nor a photograph is sufficient. Appropriate laboratory testing and a report matching the actual stone provide more useful evidence. Do not burn, scratch or break a stone to test it.

Choose according to your needs

Compare origin, weight, quality, condition, evidence and total price—not just sparkle or size. Purchase price, resale price and pawn amount are different. No category guarantees a profit or an unchanged future value.

Ask Money OK about an actual piece

Send item details and any available report information, without personal documents. Acceptance and an amount require inspection. For a lab-grown diamond or simulant, ask the branch whether it can be considered before bringing it in. Read about reports · Ask a branch.