Big News from GIA: What It Means for Lab Grown Diamonds

The Gemological Institute of America (GIA), the world’s leading authority on diamonds, has announced a big change. From late 2025, they’ll stop using their famous 4Cs grading system for lab-grown diamonds.

This move marks a definitive moment in the ongoing separation of natural diamonds from lab-grown diamonds. It confirms what many in the industry have long known: lab-grown diamonds are not the same as natural diamonds and should not be treated as such.

So, why does this matter and what does it mean if you’re choosing between natural and lab-grown diamonds?

Natural vs Lab-Grown: What’s the Difference?

To understand why this change to lab-grown diamond grading matters, it’s essential to examine what drives the value of natural diamonds: rarity and identity. Each natural diamond is finite, with unique growth patterns, internal inclusions, and color subtleties shaped by millions or even billions of years underground. No two are exactly the same, that’s why GIA’s 4Cs - cut, colour, clarity and carat, are so important as they help show what makes each stone unique.

Lab-grown diamonds, on the other hand, are made in a matter of weeks using machines. They can be produced in huge numbers, and most of them end up looking very similar and fall into a narrow range of colour and clarity. Because of that, GIA has decided it doesn’t make sense to grade them in the same way as natural stones.

What’s Changing?

Instead of a detailed grading report, lab-grown diamonds will now be given one of three options:

• Premium

• Standard

• No grade (if the quality isn’t high enough)

Why We Support the Change

At Galio Jewellers, we believe in honesty and clarity. Lab-grown diamonds certainly have their place, and they can be a great option, giving you a lot of bang for your buck! But they’re not rare, and they don’t hold the same long-term value as natural diamonds.

The new grading system isn’t about saying one type of diamond is “better” than the other. It’s about recognising that they are different, so customers can choose knowingly and confidently. It brings more transparency to the jewellery world, and we think that’s a good thing.

If you're thinking of popping the question, we can help you find the perfect diamond, whether lab or natural. We can talk you through all the options available and source a selection of stones for you to choose from.

Take a look at our 'Rings for Relationships' guide to get you started or Visit Galio Jewellers in St Albans, we’re always happy to talk diamonds.