What’s New in Lab-Grown Certification? AI, Standards & Future Regulation
Lab-grown diamonds have moved from fringe to front-row in the jewellery industry and with that shift comes the urgent need for clear, consistent, and transparent certification standards. Unlike natural diamonds, lab-grown stones pose unique challenges in grading, authentication, and disclosure.
So what’s new in the world of lab-grown certification? Let’s break it down.
AI is Taking Over Diamond Grading For Real
Gone are the days when grading was left entirely to human eyes. In 2025, AI-powered grading systems are helping labs evaluate lab-grown diamonds with more precision and consistency than ever before.
Why AI makes sense for certification:
- It minimises human bias
- Offers repeatable, accurate assessments
- Analyses microscopic patterns in structure and growth that humans can miss
Companies like Sarine Technologies and OGI Systems are pioneering AI-based solutions that can grade diamonds for cut, clarity, and even internal strain, giving buyers and sellers greater confidence in lab-grown stones.
Updated International Standards for Lab-Grown Diamonds
GIA has officially phased out the traditional 4Cs (Cut, Color, Clarity, Carat) for lab-grown diamonds. Instead, they now classify stones into “Premium” or “Standard” tiers, based on visual and structural quality. This eliminates confusion and simplifies buyer decision-making.
🧬 Growth Method & Origin Labeling
Every certified lab-grown diamond report must now clearly indicate whether the stone was created via CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition) or HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature) — an essential factor for buyers seeking transparency.
🌱 Sustainability Reporting
Select labs, including IGI and independent eco-certifiers, now offer optional carbon footprint and energy consumption disclosures for each diamond — giving environmentally-conscious consumers greater insights into their purchase.
🚫 Outdated Terminology Rejected
The term “synthetic” has been widely retired. Reports now exclusively use “lab-grown” or “laboratory-created” to describe origin — aligning with new FTC and global disclosure guidelines.
📄 Visually Distinct Reports
GIA and IGI have both redesigned their grading reports for lab-grown stones to be visually distinct from natural diamond reports — reducing the risk of misrepresentation and protecting both retailers and consumers.
Better Traceability Through Blockchain
Another exciting trend? Blockchain-based certification. Startups and labs are partnering to create tamper-proof digital records that follow each lab-grown diamond from creation to sale. This boosts:
- Transparency in the supply chain
- Security against fraud or fake certificates
- Consumer trust, especially in online purchases
This is especially critical as lab-grown stones become indistinguishable from naturals to the naked eye.
New Regulations Are Coming — Are You Ready?
Governments and trade bodies are starting to implement legal guidelines around disclosure and marketing of lab-grown diamonds. The U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and India’s Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC) are both laying the groundwork for stricter controls.
Key upcoming regulatory moves include:
- Mandatory labelling of all lab-grown products at retail level
- Separate invoicing codes for lab-grown vs. natural stones
- Penalties for misrepresentation or omission in product listings
In short, the wild west era of lab-grown is ending. A more regulated, transparent market is on the horizon.
What This Means for Traders and Retailers
If you're in the diamond business, here’s how to stay ahead:
- Update your inventory systems to track certification type
- Train your sales teams to explain AI grading and lab distinctions
- Work only with credible labs that use standardised formats
- Embrace digital certifications with QR codes and blockchain links
And most importantly — disclose everything clearly. Today’s buyer is informed, tech-savvy, and looking for brands that operate with honesty.
Final Thoughts: Certification Is the New Currency of Trust
As lab-grown diamonds continue to sparkle in the spotlight, the backbone of their market success will be strong, reliable certification. With AI, blockchain, and evolving standards, the future of grading is faster, smarter, and more transparent than ever.