Last updated September 24, 2026

Diamond FAQ

A few clear answers about lab-grown diamonds, the standards behind our curated collection, and what happens before an order is finalized.

What are CVD and HPHT lab-grown diamonds?

CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition) grows a diamond from a diamond seed in a controlled chamber using carbon-rich gas. HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature) uses pressure and heat to recreate the conditions in which diamonds form deep within the earth. Both methods can produce real diamonds with the same essential carbon crystal structure and optical, physical, and chemical properties as mined diamonds. The difference is the diamond's origin and growth history, which should be considered together with its grading report and any treatment disclosure.

Does River Stone currently list HPHT and fancy-color diamonds?

Yes. Our collection includes selected CVD and HPHT lab-grown diamonds, along with selected fancy-color stones. Every listed stone must meet the same requirements for current grading information, treatment disclosure, complete media, availability, and pricing. The growth method and any available fancy-color details appear with the individual listing. Fancy-color stones may be offered at VS2 clarity or better, while colorless selections use a stricter clarity screen. This is a catalog and verification choice, not a statement that either growth method is inherently inferior.

Are lab-grown diamonds real diamonds?

Yes. A lab-grown diamond is diamond material grown by people rather than formed in the earth and mined. The issuing laboratory's report, the stone's growth method, and any treatment disclosure provide the specific details for the individual diamond.

Why might a diamond disappear from the collection?

Availability can change. We do not publish a stone when its current price is unavailable, its required media or report link is incomplete, or it no longer passes our screening rules. A listed stone is still confirmed again before an order is finalized.

How are price and availability confirmed?

The website shows a current River Stone price based on the listing record and our pricing rules. At checkout, we recheck the exact stone and its current availability. Payment is authorized first and captured only after we confirm the stone's availability.

Why doesn't River Stone use temporary sale prices?

We price each diamond clearly from the start. The price shown is our current price for that specific stone, not an inflated "regular" price created to manufacture a markdown. We do not use artificial markdowns or countdowns to create urgency. Prices may change when costs or availability change. Applicable taxes and shipping are shown at checkout.

How is delivery charged?

Checkout shows one flat $50 insured-delivery charge per order at every order value, whether the order contains one diamond or several. The charge is added once and includes tracking plus insurance purchased for the shipment's declared value, subject to carrier limits. Stripe calculates any applicable sales tax from the shipping address entered at checkout. Delivery for loose stones is estimated at 3–10 business days. We confirm current availability and final details before payment capture. Custom jewelry follows its written project terms.

Have another question?

Send it through our private consultation and we will help you compare the details that matter for your piece.

Ready to browse? Explore our loose IGI-certified diamonds, look up an IGI certificate, or compare our fancy-color diamonds. See how we approach colored-diamond pricing.