【USA】Lab-Grown Diamonds Gain Market Dominance as Authenticity and Accessibility Drive Consumer Shift

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Editor’s Note

This article examines the evolving status of lab-grown diamonds, highlighting the Gemological Institute of America’s updated terminology, which reflects their authentic chemical composition.

Lab-Grown Diamonds Gain Market Dominance as Authenticity and Accessibility Drive Consumer Shift
Authenticity and Production Methods

The authenticity of lab-grown diamonds has been a subject of rigorous evaluation. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has been grading these stones for over a decade, and notably, since 2019, its Laboratory-Grown Diamond Reports and identification reports no longer employ the term “synthetic” to describe them. This change underscores the scientific recognition of their genuine diamond composition.
The creation of these gems involves sophisticated technological processes. Ulrika F.S. D’Haenens-Johansson, manager of diamond research at the GIA, explained the primary methods:

“Gem-quality laboratory-grown diamonds are produced by either the high pressure, high temperature (HPHT) or chemical vapor deposition (CVD) methods.”

She further detailed the initial requirement for both processes, adding:

“Each process requires a diamond seed to act as the crystal template, with growth generally taking weeks to months depending on the quality and size.”
Navigating Quality and Consumer Choices

While lab-grown diamonds share the same fundamental properties as natural diamonds, experts advise consumers to remain discerning about their purchases. Jean Dousset, a prominent lab-grown diamond designer and founder of his eponymous jewelry brand, cautioned:

“Just like natural diamonds, it’s important to remind everyone that not all lab-grown diamonds are created equal.”

He emphasized the variability in production, noting:

“There is a wide range of growth processes that yield a very different quality diamond, and lab-grown takes as much care and consideration as mined diamonds in terms of the artistry of cutting.”

Dousset also pointed out a key advantage for cutters:

“The main advantage to diamond cutters is a more predictable amount of rough to cut, whereas mined diamonds come in all different sizes and shapes, which limits the number of diamonds you can cut each time and therefore drives up the price since there is less freedom in what you can create from it.”

Consumers are encouraged to inquire about the specific source, including the country of production and energy used, to ensure alignment with their personal values and objectives.

Driving Factors Behind Rising Popularity

The increasing appeal of lab-grown diamonds, particularly among millennials and Gen-Z, can be attributed to several factors. Their consistent availability in popular sizes and color ranges has played a crucial role in their market penetration over the past decade. D’Haenens-Johansson affirmed this trend, stating:

“Their increased availability, combined with transparency, and retailer and consumer education have now largely dispelled the notion that they are a ‘fake’ product that is not a ‘real’ diamond.”

Furthermore, these diamonds resonate with the eco-conscious values prevalent among younger generations. Dousset highlighted this alignment, remarking:

“Buyers are now able to own diamonds created by these standards.”

This confluence of authenticity, affordability, and ethical appeal positions lab-grown diamonds as a compelling choice for a growing segment of the jewelry market.

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⏰ Published on: February 20, 2026