We have to be honest, shopping for diamonds can be overwhelming. Especially with lab-grown diamonds recently becoming very popular, there is a lot of information to consider. What is the actual difference between naturally formed diamonds and lab-grown diamonds? Are they the same thing? Which one should you buy?
We will simplify this!
What Is The Difference Between Lab-Grown And Natural Diamonds
First, we need to be clear - lab-grown diamonds and natural diamonds are both diamonds. They share the same physical and chemical properties. The only actual difference? Lab-grown diamonds are created in a lab through high-tech processes, and natural diamonds are generated deep within the earth over billions of years.
So that's lab vs nature, or as you will find online, lab-grown vs natural diamond.
Lab-Grown Diamonds Vs Natural Diamonds: The Visual Difference
Here’s the real scoop: Even Experts can’t tell you the difference with the naked eye. That’s right! Lab diamonds vs natural diamonds look the same. They sparkle the same. They refract light the same. They are all graded the same under the 4Cs: Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat.
You would need to have special equipment to be able to detect a difference. So if your concern is how it will look, it will look good either way!
The Price and Value: What are you paying for?
So let’s talk about price. This is where lab-grown diamonds differ clearly from real diamonds.
Lab-grown diamonds are generally 30% - 50% less expensive than mined diamonds. Why is that? Because they are not mining it, and they can better control the supply.
This means you could get a bigger or better-quality diamond for the same price you would expect to pay for a mined diamond. But conversely, natural diamonds tend to hold more resale value over time. So to sum up, it depends on what is more important to you: the affordability now or the resale value later.
Sustainability: The Eco-Friendly Option
Let’s get real: we have to consider our planet. And this is where the lab-grown vs real diamond argument is a game-changer. Lab-grown diamonds have a significantly lower impact on the environment. No large mining, no displacement of ecosystems, and generally reduced energy used.
If you are big on ethics, sustainability, and environmental conscientiousness, lab-grown diamonds win this round.
The Summary: Which should you pick?
At the end of the day, it comes down to your values. If you want something more affordable, ethical, and as stunningly beautiful, lab-grown is an incredible option. If you want rarity, tradition, and long-term resale value, maybe natural is for you.
No matter what you choose, remember, both are real. Both are beautiful. And both will shine as bright as your moment.
Add Sparkle to Your Everyday Style
If you're looking at lab-grown options, don't just stop at rings - lab-grown diamond earrings provide everyday sparkle for all occasions, while lab-made diamond bangles can elevate your wrist stack. These items can complete a look with both natural and lab-grown rings and footwear, ensuring a stylish and conscious jewellery wardrobe.
Final Thoughts
Understanding lab-grown vs natural can be a lot. But, whether you prefer lab-grown diamonds for their ethics and price point, or you want natural for the history and value, one thing is certain: love and luxury come in both forms.
FAQs: Lab-Created vs Natural Diamonds
1. Are lab-created diamonds real diamonds?
Yes, lab-created diamonds are chemically and physically the same as natural diamonds. They are real diamonds; they just come from a place other than nature.
2. Can I tell the difference between lab-created diamonds and natural diamonds?
No! Not from looking! The only way to know what made the diamond is with specialized equipment, as they both look and sparkle the same.
3. Are lab-created diamonds cheaper?
Yes, on average lab lab-created diamonds are 30–50% less than a natural diamond of the same size and quality.
4. Do lab-created diamonds retain resale value?
Natural diamonds will generally retain more resale value, as lab-created diamonds will have better resale value upfront.
5. Which is more environmentally sustainable lab lab-created diamonds or natural diamonds?
Lab-created diamonds have a far better sustainability, or eco-ethics at hand, as they require significantly less environmental impact, including mining.