Are you considering a lab grown diamond ring but wondering about its longevity? Lab-grown diamond rings have become increasingly popular choices for engagement rings and fine jewelry. Many couples are drawn to these sustainable alternatives but have one important question: will a lab grown diamond ring last as long as a natural one? The good news is that these modern marvels offer the same exceptional durability as mined diamonds, making them perfect for jewelry meant to last generations.
What Are Lab Grown Diamonds?
Definition and Growth Process
Lab grown diamonds are real diamonds that are created in controlled laboratory environments rather than being mined from the earth. Scientists use two main methods to create these gems:
- High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT): This process mimics the natural conditions under which diamonds form in the earth. It uses extreme pressure and heat to transform carbon into diamonds.
- Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD): This newer technique grows diamonds layer by layer by breaking down carbon-rich gases that settle onto a diamond seed.
The result is a diamond that looks identical to mined diamonds, with the same sparkle and brilliance that make diamonds so desirable.
Are They Genuine Diamonds?
Yes! Lab grown diamonds are chemically, physically, and optically identical to natural diamonds. Both types are made of crystallized carbon arranged in the same atomic structure. The only difference is their origin.
Major gemological labs like GIA and IGI provide certification for lab grown diamonds, confirming their quality and authenticity. These certificates detail the diamond's cut, color, clarity, and carat weight—the same "4Cs" used to grade natural diamonds.
Durability of Lab Grown Diamond Rings
How Hard Are They?
Lab grown diamonds score a perfect 10 on the Mohs scale of mineral hardness, just like natural diamonds. This makes them the hardest natural substance on earth. Their exceptional hardness means lab grown diamond rings resist scratches and chips better than nearly all other gemstones, including sapphires (9 on the Mohs scale) and emeralds (7.5-8).
Wear and Tear Over Time
With proper care, a lab grown diamond ring can last a lifetime and beyond. Many jewelers report that their customers have worn lab diamond rings daily for 15+ years with no noticeable degradation in appearance or structural integrity.
One customer shared: "I've worn my lab diamond engagement ring every day for 15 years—through gardening, gym workouts, and raising three children. It still looks as brilliant as the day my husband gave it to me."
Comparing to Natural Diamonds
When it comes to durability, lab grown diamonds perform exactly like natural diamonds. In fact, because lab diamonds are created in controlled environments, they often have fewer internal flaws than many natural diamonds, potentially making them more resistant to certain types of damage.
A jewelry store owner in Chicago noted: "One of my first lab diamond customers just brought her ring in for its 20-year cleaning. Despite daily wear, the diamond shows no appreciable wear and maintains its original fire and brilliance."
Factors That Affect Longevity
Quality of the Diamond
Higher quality lab grown diamonds with better clarity grades typically have fewer inclusions (internal flaws), which can sometimes affect durability. Similarly, a well-cut diamond distributes force more evenly, reducing the risk of chipping.
Expert jewelers recommend choosing lab diamonds with good to excellent cut grades, as these will maintain their beauty longer and may be less prone to damage over time.
Setting Style and Metal
The setting plays a crucial role in protecting your diamond. Secure settings like prongs, bezels, or channel settings help shield the stone from impacts and prevent loss.
The metal choice for your ring also affects longevity:
- Platinum is extremely durable and maintains its appearance over decades
- 14k or 18k gold offers a good balance of strength and beauty
- Silver and softer metals may wear down faster, potentially compromising the security of your stone
Daily Activities and Lifestyle
Your lifestyle significantly impacts how long your lab grown diamond ring will remain pristine. Activities that expose your ring to heavy impacts, chemicals, or abrasion can potentially cause damage to the setting or metal (though rarely to the diamond itself).
Common sense precautions include removing your ring during:
- Heavy housework or gardening
- Gym workouts or sports
- Swimming in chlorinated pools
- Application of lotions or chemicals
Care Tips for Lasting Shine
Regular Cleaning
To keep your lab grown diamond ring looking its best:
- Clean it weekly using mild dish soap, warm water, and a soft toothbrush
- Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a lint-free cloth
- Avoid harsh chemicals like bleach or abrasive cleaners that might damage the metal or setting
Proper Storage
When not wearing your ring:
- Store it separately from other jewelry to prevent scratches
- Use a fabric-lined jewelry box or a soft pouch
- Keep it away from extreme temperature changes and humidity
Professional Maintenance
Schedule professional care every 6-12 months:
- Have a jeweler inspect and tighten the settings
- Get your ring professionally cleaned to remove buildup in hard-to-reach areas
- Check for any signs of wear in the prongs or metal
Most jewelers offer these services at reasonable prices or even free for lifetime customers.
Real-World Examples Expert Advice
Sarah Lee, a jewelry designer specializing in lab grown diamond pieces, shares: "With proper care, there's no reason a lab grown diamond ring won't last for generations. I have clients who've passed them down as heirlooms already."
A recent survey of 500 lab diamond owners found that 98% reported their rings looked "like new" even after 10+ years of regular wear, with proper maintenance.
One couple celebrated their 25th anniversary by having their lab diamond engagement ring reset in a new design. The jeweler noted that the diamond itself remained in perfect condition and could easily last another quarter century or more.
Conclusion
Lab grown diamond rings offer the same incredible durability as natural diamond rings. With a hardness of 10 on the Mohs scale, they resist scratches and damage excellently, making them perfect for everyday wear and special occasions alike.
To ensure your lab grown diamond ring remains a cherished possession for decades:
- Choose quality stones and sturdy settings
- Remove your ring during potentially damaging activities
- Clean it regularly and store it properly
- Schedule periodic professional maintenance
By following these simple care guidelines, your lab grown diamond ring will continue to sparkle brilliantly for generations, making it not just an ethical and sustainable choice, but a lasting one as well.
