Diamond Guide

Sphere Diamond Education

Diamond Guide: Complete Lab Grown Diamond Buying Guide

A complete guide to lab grown diamonds, the 4Cs, shapes, cut, color, clarity, carat, proportions, fluorescence, IGI reports and choosing diamond jewelry in Bangkok.

Quick answer: Start with cut and face-up appearance, then compare shape, measurements, color, clarity, carat weight, proportions, fluorescence and grading documentation. The best diamond is not simply the highest grade—it is the diamond that performs beautifully in the intended setting and fits your priorities.

What Is a Diamond?

A diamond is a crystalline form of carbon whose optical beauty comes from the interaction of light with its facets. Hardness helps resist scratching, while toughness, cleavage directions and setting design affect how safely it can be worn.

MaterialCrystalline Carbon

Diamond is carbon arranged in a strong three-dimensional crystal structure.

Hardness10 on Mohs Scale

Highly resistant to scratching, but vulnerable edges can still chip.

OpticsBrilliance, Fire & Scintillation

Beauty depends on how facets reflect, refract and contrast light.

Lab Grown vs Natural Diamond

Lab grown and natural diamonds are both real diamonds. Their defining difference is origin: natural diamonds form through geological processes, while lab grown diamonds are created by HPHT or CVD technology under controlled conditions.

Feature Lab Grown Diamond Natural Diamond
Material Diamond Diamond
Origin HPHT or CVD growth Geological formation
Appearance Can be visually indistinguishable Can be visually indistinguishable
4Cs Applied Applied
Independent report Available Available
Typical price Usually lower for comparable specifications Usually higher
Rarity story Technology and production Geological origin

Read the Lab Grown Diamond vs Natural Diamond Guide for the full comparison.

The Diamond 4Cs

CutLight performance

Controls brightness, fire, scintillation and contrast.

ColorBody color

Commonly graded D to Z for colorless-to-light-yellow diamonds.

ClarityInclusions and blemishes

Evaluates internal and surface features under standardized viewing.

CaratWeight

One carat equals 0.2 grams; visible size also depends on dimensions.

Diamond Shapes

Shape Visual character Strengths Watch for
Round Classic and brilliant Strong light return and easy setting compatibility Cut precision and price premium
Oval Elongated and elegant Large face-up spread Bow-tie and outline symmetry
Cushion Soft square Romantic shape and varied facet styles Depth and facet pattern
Emerald Linear step cut Clarity and elegant flashes Inclusion visibility and windowing
Radiant Angular and brilliant Durability and sparkle Bow-tie and depth
Pear Teardrop Length and directional elegance Symmetry and point protection
Marquise Long and dramatic Maximum finger coverage Bow-tie and point protection
Princess Square brilliant Modern geometry Corner protection
Asscher Octagonal step cut Art Deco character Clarity and face-up spread
Heart Symbolic Distinctive romantic outline Symmetry and cleft definition

Explore the Diamond Shape Guide.

Diamond Cut and Light Performance

Cut quality describes how effectively the facets manage light. For round brilliant diamonds, cut grading is more standardized; for fancy shapes, buyers should rely more heavily on visual assessment, measurements, video and comparison.

Factor What it controls Buying note
Proportions Light return and spread Avoid judging one percentage in isolation
Polish Surface finish Excellent or Very Good is commonly preferred
Symmetry Facet alignment Important for balanced contrast
Contrast Pattern of light and dark Creates scintillation and visual structure
Brightness White-light return Should remain lively in normal lighting
Fire Spectral color flashes Varies with lighting and facet design

Read the Diamond Cut Guide and Hearts & Arrows Cut Mechanics.

Diamond Color

Grade range General appearance Common use
D–F Colorless Premium color-sensitive designs
G–H Near-colorless Strong balance of whiteness and value
I–J Near-colorless with more warmth Warm metals or budget optimization
K and below Increasing visible warmth Vintage, yellow-gold or intentionally warm designs

Diamond size, shape, setting style and metal color all influence how color appears. Read the Diamond Color Guide.

Diamond Clarity

Grade Meaning Practical interpretation
FL / IF Flawless or internally flawless at 10× Rare and not necessary for eye-clean beauty
VVS1 / VVS2 Very, very slightly included Minute inclusions, difficult to see under 10×
VS1 / VS2 Very slightly included Often an excellent balance for fine jewelry
SI1 / SI2 Slightly included Can offer value; inspect inclusion type and visibility
I1 and below Included Inclusions may affect beauty or durability

Read the Diamond Clarity Guide.

Carat Weight and Face-Up Size

Carat measures weight, not visible diameter. Two diamonds with the same carat can look different because of shape, depth, girdle, pavilion structure and face-up dimensions.

Buying factor Why it matters
Millimeter dimensions Directly indicate face-up scale
Depth percentage Affects spread and light performance
Shape Elongated shapes may appear larger
Setting Halo, bezel and prong styles change visual presence
Finger or body scale Changes perceived size

Read the Diamond Carat Guide.

Proportions and Measurements

Term What it means Why it matters
Table % Table width relative to diamond width Influences brightness and facet balance
Depth % Total depth relative to width Affects spread and light path
Crown angle Angle of upper facets Influences fire and light entry
Pavilion angle Angle of lower facets Strongly affects light return
Girdle Outer edge thickness Affects durability and weight distribution
Culet Bottom point or facet May be visible if large

Fluorescence

Grade Typical description Buying approach
None No observable fluorescence Neutral choice
Faint Minimal reaction Usually not visually important
Medium Moderate reaction Inspect in daylight and UV-rich conditions
Strong / Very Strong Pronounced reaction Check for haziness or unusual appearance

IGI Certification and Reports

A grading report is an identification and grading document, not a guarantee that a diamond will look beautiful in every setting. Sphere Diamond offers IGI-certified lab grown diamonds for qualifying stones and selected designs.

Report field What to check
Report number Match with seller records and laser inscription
Origin Laboratory-grown identification
Measurements Length, width and depth
Carat weight Recorded weight
Color and clarity Laboratory grades
Cut, polish and symmetry Finish and performance indicators
Comments Growth process, treatment or relevant notes

Read the IGI Certificate Guide.

Settings and Metals

Setting Character Best for
Prong Open and light Maximizing diamond visibility
Bezel Smooth and protective Active wear and modern design
Halo Larger visual presence Bridal and statement looks
Hidden halo Side sparkle Modern engagement rings
Channel Clean continuous line Wedding and eternity rings
Pavé Fine surface sparkle Bands, halos and accents

Compare 18K white, yellow and rose gold with Platinum 950 in the Jewelry Material Guide.

How to Choose a Diamond

Infographic: Six-Step Diamond Buying Process

01 PurposeEngagement, wedding, gift or daily wear
02 ShapeOutline, spread and personal style
03 CutBrightness, fire and scintillation
04 GradesColor, clarity and carat
05 ReportOrigin, measurements and verification
06 SettingSecurity, metal and lifestyle
Set a total budget for diamond and setting.
Choose shape before optimizing grades.
Prioritize cut and face-up appearance.
Compare millimeter measurements, not carat alone.
Check inclusion type and placement.
Verify report details and laser inscription.
View the diamond in normal lighting.
Evaluate the finished setting and comfort.

Choosing by Jewelry Type

Jewelry type Primary diamond priorities Engineering priorities
Engagement ring Cut, shape, center size, report Setting height, prong security, ring size and wedding-band fit
Wedding ring Matching, consistency and durability Comfort, spacing and shared-prong wear
Earrings Pair matching, face-up size and total weight Backs, post strength, droop and comfort
Pendant or necklace Visible scale, movement and orientation Chain, bail, length and clasp
Bracelet or bangle Matching and continuous appearance Links, hinge, clasp, fit and setting wear

Explore Related Guides and Collections

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a diamond?

A diamond is crystalline carbon arranged in a strong three-dimensional structure that creates exceptional hardness and distinctive optical properties.

Are lab grown diamonds real diamonds?

Yes. They have the same crystal structure and essentially the same chemical, physical and optical properties as natural diamonds.

What are the 4Cs?

Cut, color, clarity and carat weight. Together they describe important characteristics of a diamond.

Which C matters most?

Cut usually has the strongest effect on visible sparkle, although the best balance depends on shape, design and budget.

What is diamond cut?

Cut describes how well a diamond’s proportions, facets, polish and symmetry work together to return light.

What is diamond color?

Color grading describes how much body color is visible, commonly using a D-to-Z scale for colorless-to-light-yellow diamonds.

What is diamond clarity?

Clarity describes internal inclusions and surface blemishes observed under standardized conditions.

What is carat weight?

Carat is a unit of weight. One carat equals 0.2 grams.

Does a higher carat always look larger?

No. Face-up size also depends on shape, proportions, depth and measurements.

What is an ideal cut?

Ideal cut is a trade term used for diamonds with proportions intended to deliver strong light performance. Standards vary by laboratory and seller.

What is Triple Excellent?

For round brilliant diamonds, it commonly refers to Excellent grades for cut, polish and symmetry.

What are Hearts & Arrows?

It is a precise optical pattern seen in some highly symmetrical round brilliant diamonds when viewed through a special scope.

Does Hearts & Arrows guarantee beauty?

No. It indicates optical symmetry, but overall proportions, contrast and light performance still matter.

What is fluorescence?

Fluorescence is visible light emitted by some diamonds under ultraviolet radiation.

Is fluorescence bad?

Not automatically. Its effect varies by strength, color and the individual diamond.

What is a diamond certificate?

A grading report records characteristics such as measurements, carat, color, clarity and origin identification.

Does IGI grade lab grown diamonds?

Yes. IGI issues grading reports for laboratory-grown diamonds.

Do all Sphere Diamond pieces include IGI reports?

IGI-certified lab grown diamonds are available for qualifying stones and selected designs. Confirm documentation for the exact piece.

How can I verify an IGI report?

Match the report number and grading details with the diamond and verify the report through IGI’s official system.

What is laser inscription?

A microscopic inscription on the girdle that may include the report number or other identification.

What is diamond depth percentage?

Depth percentage compares total depth with average width and affects face-up spread and light performance.

What is table percentage?

Table percentage compares the table facet width with the diamond’s width.

What is a girdle?

The girdle is the outer edge separating the crown from the pavilion.

What is a culet?

The culet is the small facet or point at the bottom of the pavilion.

Which diamond shape sparkles most?

Round brilliant is engineered for strong brilliance, but every shape can be attractive when well cut.

Which shape looks largest?

Oval, marquise and pear shapes often provide generous face-up coverage for their weight.

What is a bow-tie effect?

A dark bow-shaped contrast pattern that can appear across elongated fancy shapes such as oval, pear and marquise.

Which clarity is best value?

Eye-clean VS2 or SI1 diamonds can offer value, but the best grade depends on size, shape and inclusion placement.

Which color is best value?

Near-colorless grades such as G to H often balance appearance and budget, depending on metal color and diamond size.

Is D color always necessary?

No. Many near-colorless diamonds appear very white in jewelry.

Can lab grown diamonds have inclusions?

Yes. They can show growth-related inclusions and features.

Can diamonds chip?

Yes. Diamond is extremely hard but can chip if struck at a vulnerable edge or point.

How should I clean a diamond?

Use warm water, mild soap and a soft brush, rinse carefully and dry with a lint-free cloth.

How often should diamond jewelry be inspected?

Frequently worn pieces should be checked periodically and whenever a prong, clasp or stone feels different.

Which setting is safest?

Prong, bezel, channel and other settings can all be secure when properly engineered and maintained.

What is a bezel setting?

A metal rim surrounds all or part of the diamond’s edge.

What is a halo setting?

A halo uses smaller diamonds around a center stone to increase visual presence and sparkle.

What is a hidden halo?

A row of small diamonds placed below the center stone, usually visible from the side.

Which metal is best for diamonds?

18K white, yellow and rose gold and Platinum 950 are all suitable depending on design, color preference, weight and care.

How do I choose a diamond for an engagement ring?

Balance cut, shape, measurements, color, clarity, carat, report, setting and budget.

How do I choose diamonds for earrings?

Focus on pair matching, face-up size, total weight, backs and comfort.

How do I choose diamonds for a necklace?

Consider pendant size, chain length, setting, movement and how the diamond sits on the body.

How do I choose diamonds for a bracelet?

Check matching, flexibility, clasp security, setting wear and fit.

Where can I compare diamonds in Bangkok?

Visit Sphere Diamond at CentralWorld Bangkok to compare shapes, sizes, grades, settings and IGI reports.

Does Sphere Diamond make custom jewelry?

Yes. Custom projects may include diamond selection, metal, setting, proportions and personal design details.

Are lab grown diamonds cheaper?

They generally cost less than natural diamonds with comparable specifications, although prices change over time.

Do lab grown diamonds have resale value?

Secondary-market behavior is variable and not guaranteed. Buy primarily for wear, design and meaning.

Are natural diamonds always an investment?

No. Future resale depends on rarity, demand, documentation, condition and selling channel.

What should I prioritize on a limited budget?

Prioritize cut, an attractive face-up appearance, an eye-clean clarity level and a setting that protects the stone.

Should I buy online or in person?

Online research is useful, but in-person comparison helps evaluate scale, sparkle, color, comfort and craftsmanship.

Compare Lab Grown Diamonds at CentralWorld Bangkok

View diamond shapes, cut quality, color, clarity, carat, IGI reports and finished jewelry with guidance from Sphere Diamond specialists.

Conclusion

A strong diamond purchase starts with cut, face-up appearance and a clear understanding of how shape, measurements, color, clarity, carat, proportions and setting work together. Use grading reports as a technical reference, then confirm beauty and suitability by viewing the actual diamond and finished jewelry.

Sphere Diamond at CentralWorld Bangkok specializes in lab grown diamond engagement rings, wedding rings, earrings, necklaces, pendants, bracelets and custom fine jewelry. IGI-certified lab grown diamonds are available for qualifying stones and selected designs.

About This Guide

This pillar guide was prepared to help customers understand diamond quality, grading and jewelry design without relying on a single grade or marketing claim.

Reviewed by
Sphere Diamond Jewelry and The GIA Graduate Gemologist
Showroom
CentralWorld Bangkok
Specialty
lab grown diamond fine jewelry

Reviewed by Sphere Diamond Jewelry and The GIA Graduate Gemologist, Showroom: CentralWorld Bangkok, Specialty: lab grown diamond fine jewelry