Lab-grown diamonds are one of the most talked-about changes in jewellery. Here are clear answers to the questions we hear most often.
Are lab-grown diamonds real?
Yes. A lab-grown diamond is made of carbon arranged in the same crystal structure as a mined diamond. It has the same hardness, the same brilliance and the same chemistry. The difference is where it formed: in a controlled environment rather than deep underground.
Can you tell them apart?
Not by eye, and not with a standard jeweller's loupe. Specialist laboratory equipment is needed to identify where a diamond was formed. That is why certification matters.
How are they graded?
The same way as mined diamonds, using the 4Cs: carat, colour, clarity and cut. Shimora uses colourless EF colour grades and VVS to VS clarity. Each product page lists the stone count, total carat weight and quality.
What about certification?
Certified Shimora pieces come with an IGI certificate that records the stone's details. When a piece is certified, the certificate number is shown on the product page so you can look it up.
Why choose lab-grown?
- The same diamond, without mining.
- More stone for the same budget.
- Easier to buy for everyday pieces like studs and tennis bracelets.
When might mined make sense?
If you want a natural stone for sentimental reasons, or you are buying specifically as a store of value, a mined diamond may be the right choice. It is a personal decision, and both are real diamonds.
See our lab-grown diamond pieces, each with its price breakup showing the stone value on its own line.