Lab-grown diamonds have revolutionized the diamond industry, offering an eco-friendly and ethical alternative without compromising on brilliance or affordability.

These scientifically crafted gems are more than just visually stunning—they possess the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as natural diamonds formed over billions of years.

But the critical question remains: Can lab-grown diamonds pass a diamond tester? Let’s explore the answer.

Understanding Lab-Grown Diamonds

Lab-grown diamonds, also referred to as lab-created or man-made diamonds, are genuine diamonds produced using advanced technological methods.

The two primary techniques—High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD)—mimic the natural conditions under which diamonds develop in the Earth’s mantle.

The outcome is a gemstone that matches mined diamonds in hardness, thermal conductivity, and refractive index.

How Diamond Testers Work

Diamond testers are portable devices used by jewelers to verify whether a gemstone is a real diamond.

These testers differentiate diamonds from other gemstones and simulants, such as cubic zirconia and sapphire, which have distinct physical and chemical properties.

The tester works by transmitting a small amount of heat or an electric current into the stone and measuring its conduction speed.

Due to their superior thermal and electrical conductivity, diamonds conduct heat and electricity faster than other stones. If the tester detects high conductivity, it confirms the stone is a diamond.

There are two main types of diamond testers:

• Thermal conductivity testers: Measure heat conduction.

• Electrical conductivity testers: Measure electrical conduction.

Some advanced models combine both methods for greater accuracy.

Lab-Grown Diamonds vs. Natural Diamonds

Lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds, not imitations like cubic zirconia.

Both lab-created and natural diamonds consist of pure carbon atoms arranged in a crystal structure, giving them identical hardness, brilliance, and conductivity.

As a result, lab-grown diamonds conduct heat and electricity at the same rate as natural diamonds, making them indistinguishable to diamond testers.

Testing Lab-Grown Diamonds

The testing process is simple:

1. Calibrate the tester as per the manufacturer’s guidelines.

2. Place the probe on the diamond’s surface (avoiding any metal setting).

3. The device measures conduction speed and provides an instant result.

For accurate readings, ensure the stone is clean and the test is conducted in a moderate-temperature environment.

Can Lab-Grown Diamonds Pass the Test?

Yes. Since lab-grown diamonds share identical properties with natural diamonds, they will pass both thermal and electrical conductivity tests. The tester will confirm the stone is a diamond.

Limitations of Diamond Testers

While highly reliable, diamond testers are not flawless. For instance, moissanite—a diamond simulant—has similar thermal conductivity and may occasionally yield a false positive.

Diamond testers can verify authenticity but cannot assess quality or origin. For detailed information, a certified diamond grading report is essential. Reputable grading labs often inscribe microscopic details on the diamond’s girdle to indicate its origin and certification number.

The Value of Certification

Opting for a certified diamond ensures authenticity, quality, and ethical sourcing. A grading report provides comprehensive details about the diamond’s characteristics, offering confidence in its journey from carbon to a cherished symbol of love.

Final Thoughts

Lab-grown diamonds will pass a diamond tester because they are chemically and physically identical to natural diamonds. Their rising popularity underscores their legitimacy in the jewelry market.

However, while diamond testers are effective, they are not foolproof—simulants like moissanite can sometimes deceive them. Certification remains the most reliable method for verifying a diamond’s authenticity and quality.

Whether choosing a lab-grown diamond for an engagement ring or other jewelry, rest assured these gems are genuine diamonds that will withstand testing.