What Is a Synthetic Diamond? A Complete Guide for Modern Jewellery Buyers
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Diamonds have always had a reputation for being rare, romantic, and let’s be honest expensive. Enter the synthetic diamond, the modern marvel that proves you can have all the sparkle without waiting a billion years or emptying your entire savings account.
At Aiva Jewellery, we believe knowledge is just as important as beauty. So let’s break down what synthetic diamonds really are, how they’re made, and why they’re shining brighter than ever in fine jewellery.

What Is a Synthetic Diamond?
A synthetic diamond is a real diamond created in a laboratory using advanced technology that replicates the natural conditions under which diamonds form in the earth. Chemically, physically, and optically, a synthetic diamond is identical to a natural diamond.
In simpler terms:
Same sparkle. Same hardness. Same brilliance. Different origin story.
No magic tricks, no “fake” crystals just science doing what science does best.
How Are Synthetic Diamonds Made?
Synthetic diamonds are grown using two main methods:
1. High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT)
This method recreates the intense heat and pressure found deep inside the earth. Carbon is subjected to these conditions, and voilà a diamond is born (much faster than nature ever intended).
2. Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD)
In this process, carbon-rich gases are broken down in a vacuum chamber. Carbon atoms slowly build up layer by layer on a diamond seed, forming a beautiful synthetic diamond crystal.
Both methods produce diamonds that look stunning, perform brilliantly, and won’t complain about being rushed.
Are Synthetic Diamonds Real Diamonds?
Yes.
Yes again.
And just to be extra clear, yes.
Synthetic diamonds are not simulants like cubic zirconia or moissanite. They are real diamonds with the same crystal structure, hardness (10 on the Mohs scale), and optical performance as natural diamonds.
Even professional gemologists need advanced equipment to tell the difference.

Synthetic Diamond vs Natural Diamond: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | Synthetic Diamond | Natural Diamond |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Grown in a lab | Formed in the earth |
| Time to Form | Weeks | Billions of years |
| Chemical Properties | Identical | Identical |
| Appearance | Identical | Identical |
| Price | More accessible | Higher cost |
The key difference isn’t beauty it’s how and where they’re created.
Why Choose Synthetic Diamond Jewellery?
Synthetic diamonds have quickly become a favourite for modern jewellery lovers, and here’s why:
- Exceptional Value: Get a larger or higher-quality diamond at a more accessible price
- Ethical & Transparent: No mining concerns, shorter supply chain
- Consistent Quality: Excellent colour and clarity options
- Certified & Authentic: Available with reputable grading reports
At Aiva Jewellery, all our synthetic diamonds are carefully selected to meet our standards of brilliance, beauty, and craftsmanship.
Certification: Yes, Synthetic Diamonds Are Certified
Synthetic diamonds are graded by respected gemological laboratories using the same 4Cs cut, colour, clarity, and carat.
You’ll often see IGI or GIA Laboratory-Grown Diamond Reports, clearly identifying the diamond as lab-grown while maintaining full transparency.
Think of it as a diamond with excellent paperwork and nothing to hide.

Do Synthetic Diamonds Look Different?
To the naked eye? Absolutely not.
Synthetic diamonds offer the same fire, brilliance, and sparkle you expect from fine jewellery. In fact, many synthetic diamonds display exceptional clarity and colour because their growth environment is carefully controlled.
The only thing missing is the million-year backstory—and most people are perfectly fine with that.
Is a Synthetic Diamond Right for You?
Choosing between a natural and a synthetic diamond is a personal decision. Some people love the romance of earth-grown stones, while others appreciate innovation, value, and modern ethics.
At Aiva Jewellery, we celebrate choice. Whether your diamond was formed deep underground or perfected in a lab, what truly matters is how it makes you feel when you wear it.
Final Thoughts
A synthetic diamond is not a compromise, it’s an evolution. It represents the perfect blend of science, sustainability, and stunning design.
Because at the end of the day, diamonds don’t need to be old to be beautiful. They just need to shine
Explore synthetic diamond jewellery at Aiva Jewellery—where modern brilliance meets timeless elegance.
FAQs: Synthetic Diamond
1. What is a synthetic diamond?
A synthetic diamond is a real diamond created in a laboratory using advanced technology. It has the same chemical, physical, and optical properties as a natural diamond the only difference is where it was grown.
2. Are synthetic diamonds real or fake?
Synthetic diamonds are 100% real diamonds. They are not fake, simulated, or imitation stones like cubic zirconia or moissanite.
3. Do synthetic diamonds sparkle like natural diamonds?
Absolutely. Synthetic diamonds offer the same brilliance, fire, and sparkle as natural diamonds. Even experts need specialised equipment to tell them apart.
4. How are synthetic diamonds made?
Synthetic diamonds are grown using two main processes:
- HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature)
-
CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition)
Both methods recreate the conditions needed to form real diamonds—just much faster.
5. Are synthetic diamonds durable?
Yes. Synthetic diamonds rank 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making them just as durable and suitable for everyday wear as natural diamonds.
6. Are synthetic diamonds certified?
Yes. Synthetic diamonds can be certified by reputable gemological laboratories such as IGI and GIA (Laboratory-Grown Diamond Reports), grading them on cut, colour, clarity, and carat.
7. Why are synthetic diamonds more affordable?
Synthetic diamonds have a shorter supply chain and do not require mining, which significantly reduces costs allowing you to enjoy larger or higher-quality diamonds at a more accessible price.
8. Is buying a synthetic diamond ethical?
Synthetic diamonds offer a more transparent and controlled production process, making them a popular choice for those seeking ethical and environmentally conscious jewellery options.
9. Can synthetic diamonds be used in fine jewellery?
Yes. Synthetic diamonds are widely used in fine jewellery, including engagement rings, earrings, bracelets, and pendants, and are set in precious metals just like natural diamonds.
10. Should I choose a synthetic or natural diamond?
There’s no right or wrong choice it comes down to personal preference. Whether you value tradition or modern innovation, both options offer timeless beauty and brilliance.