CARATLab-grown
The same diamond, without the markup.
Lab-grown and mined diamonds are gemologically identical. The only material difference is origin — and the price that follows from it.
| Property | Lab-grown | Mined |
|---|---|---|
| Crystal structure | Identical | Identical |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 10 | 10 |
| Optical behaviour | Identical | Identical |
| Certificate (IGI / GIA) | Yes | Yes |
| Typical price (1.5ct, F, VS1, Ideal) | $3,180 | $10,800 |
| Origin | Lab (CVD or HPHT) | Mined |
Prices are typical recent figures from the Carat feed; mined comparison reflects published wholesale benchmarks. Individual stones vary.
Answers in plain English.
Is a lab-grown diamond a real diamond?
Yes. Lab-grown and mined diamonds share the same crystal structure, hardness, and optical behaviour. The only difference is origin.
How does the 100-day return work?
We email a prepaid, fully insured FedEx label. Drop the package at any FedEx location within 100 days, in original unworn condition. Refund issues within 3 business days of receipt.
What does “verified in-house” mean?
Every stone is independently re-graded against its IGI or GIA report by our gemologists before it joins the feed. If a stone falls short of its certificate, it does not list.
How does the lifetime upgrade work?
At any point, return your Carat diamond and apply 100% of what you paid toward a new diamond of equal or greater value. No 2x rule. No expiration.
Are mined diamonds available?
Yes, on request. Lab-grown is where our pricing is most competitive, but mined inventory can be sourced when origin is the priority.
Does the price include the setting?
The diamond price is the loose stone. Each listing shows a “Ring from” price that bundles a basic solitaire. Final order itemizes stone, setting, and free insured shipping.