Trade FAQ
Lab-grown diamond questions from the trade
Straight answers for jewellers, manufacturers and traders.
Questions buyers ask
Are INTI diamonds real diamonds?
Yes. A laboratory-grown diamond is crystalline carbon with the same physical, chemical and optical properties as a mined diamond. It is sold, invoiced and graded as a laboratory-grown diamond.
What is the difference between CVD and HPHT diamonds?
Both make real diamond. CVD grows diamond from a carbon-rich plasma onto flat seed plates; HPHT grows it in molten metal under very high pressure and temperature. Polished stones from either method are graded on the same scales, and the grading report states which method was used.
Do you disclose post-growth treatment?
Yes. Some CVD diamonds are treated after growth to improve colour. We tell you which stones are as-grown and which are treated, and independent grading reports note it.
Which grading laboratories do you work with?
We can supply stones with reports from IGI, GIA or another laboratory you prefer, or as ungraded parcels for melee and calibrated goods. Tell us your requirement when you enquire.
How do I check a grading report?
Use our certificate checker, which opens the laboratory's own report-check page for the number you enter. Compare the measurements, carat weight and laser inscription with the stone you receive.
Do you sell to consumers?
No. We sell only to businesses: retail jewellers, jewellery manufacturers, diamond traders, wholesalers and brands.
How do I pay?
After you confirm an order we issue a proforma invoice. Payment is by international bank wire transfer.
Do lab-grown diamonds need a Kimberley Process certificate?
No. The Kimberley Process covers rough natural diamonds. Laboratory-grown diamonds are declared under HS heading 7104 (7104.21 for unworked and 7104.91 for polished diamonds) and our invoices describe them as laboratory-grown.
How must lab-grown diamonds be labelled when I resell them?
Rules differ by market. In the United States the FTC Jewelry Guides require a clear qualifier such as 'laboratory-grown' or 'laboratory-created'. In India the BIS standard IS 19469 uses 'laboratory-grown diamond'. In Europe, ISO 18323 and the CIBJO Diamond Book allow 'synthetic diamond', 'laboratory-grown' or 'laboratory-created'. Terms such as 'cultured' or 'real' on their own should not be used.
Can I see your production before I buy?
Yes. Book a live video walk-through of our growing and cutting floors, or visit by appointment. Email us to arrange a time.
Can you make matched pairs and calibrated parcels?
Yes. Tell us the shape, size tolerance and quantity, and we will quote from stock or plan a production run.
Do you supply fancy colours?
Yes, we work in fancy colours including pink, blue and yellow. Ask us what is available now and what we can grow to order.