Technological advances in recent years have made it possible for natural diamonds to be enhanced, which increases their beauty and affordability, or grown in a laboratory environment. It’s important to discuss with your professional jeweler if the diamond you are purchasing has been enhanced in any way. Some treatments require special care, of which you need to be aware. 

Synthetic diamonds

Synthetic Diamonds are grown in a laboratory under controlled conditions. These stones have all the same properties of a natural diamond and it is very difficult to separate them from natural diamonds without special training and equipment. Your jeweler is required to inform you if a diamond is synthetic, and the diamond must be identified with a term such as “synthetic,” “laboratory grown” or [brand name] created. While not the choice of every customer, synthetic diamonds can provide an alternative to natural diamonds for some people.

Enhanced diamonds

Diamonds can be colored, tinted, coated, irradiated or heated to improve their color and clarity. Inclusions are sometimes removed with lasers and fractures filled with a glasslike compound. Some of these procedures are not permanent. While it is not always possible to determine if a diamond has been enhanced just by looking at it, it is required that your jeweler disclose this information to you and a professional jeweler will let you know if a diamond’s natural appearance has been altered.

Qualified gem labs have very sophisticated equipment that can analyze a diamond and determine if it is synthetic or enhanced. If you are uncertain about the diamond you plan on purchasing and it does not have a certificate from a well-known laboratory, ask your professional jeweler to send it to a laboratory for analysis.

Ask an Expert

You should feel comfortable asking your jeweler about the source of the diamonds on display. Professional jewelers, like Jewelers of America Members, will explain any treatments or enhancements and should be able to clearly identify a diamond or gemstone's source. Since expertise in the grading, selection and sale of diamonds takes years of training, always purchase diamond jewelry from a professional you can trust. Choose a retailer who has demonstrated a commitment to professionalism and has an established reputation. Ask if the jeweler is a member of Jewelers of America. Our members commit annually to aCode of Professional Practices, so you can buy jewelry with confidence.  Search our “Find a JA Jeweler” directory, or look for the “J” logo on company’s door or website.