Choosing between lab diamonds and natural diamonds? This guide compares lab diamonds vs natural diamonds on cost, formation, and ethical impact to help you decide.


Key Takeaways

  • Lab-grown diamonds are chemically identical to natural diamonds.
  • Lab-grown diamonds are significantly cheaper than natural diamonds.
  • Lab-grown diamonds are seen as a more ethical and sustainable choice. 
  • Lab-grown diamonds account for nearly 20% of global sales, reflecting a growing acceptance of their ethical and sustainable attributes in the diamond market.


Lab Diamond vs Natural: A Comparison

When you’re picking out jewelry, getting the stone right is important. Every diamond has a story, and it will continue to grow and evolve in importance to you over time. Understanding the background and makeup of the diamond you choose can make or break your emotional attachment to the piece in question.

Natural diamonds can take up to billions of years to form under extraordinary conditions. The fact that they exist and we can create gorgeous jewelry with them is worthy of wonder and awe. 

Lab-created diamonds are a feat of human brilliance. We have harnessed everything that has made diamonds unique and stunning and recreated them on a level that can only be differentiated through microscopic means. Lab-grown diamonds find their beauty in their sustainability and ethical creation alongside the other traits that make natural diamonds beautiful. 


The Rise of Lab-Grown Diamonds

Lab Grown Diamond

The rise of lab-created diamonds has revolutionized the diamond industry, offering consumers a compelling alternative to traditionally mined diamonds. Lab-grown diamonds are not only recognized as real diamonds but also come with the same certifications and assurances as their natural counterparts.

Identical in properties and value, lab-grown diamonds have quickly gained popularity, providing an attractive option for those seeking beauty, sustainability, and affordability in their precious stones.

We have created this guide to break down the facts and myths surrounding lab-grown and natural diamonds, giving you the ability to make an informed decision.


Understanding Lab-Grown Diamonds

Lab-grown diamonds, also called synthetic or cultured diamonds, are produced in controlled laboratories that mimic natural diamond-forming conditions. They can be created in about 2 to 4 weeks. The production of lab-grown diamonds involves two primary methods: High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD). Both methods replicate the extreme conditions found deep within the Earth’s mantle, resulting in producing lab diamonds that are chemically, physically, and optically identical to natural diamonds.

One of the most compelling aspects of lab-grown diamonds is their cost-effectiveness. On average, lab-grown diamonds are priced at about 10% of the cost of their natural counterparts, making them an appealing choice for budget-conscious consumers. Despite the lower price, lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds, possessing the same brilliance and sparkle as those mined from the Earth.

Exploring the formation processes and key differences enhances understanding of why lab-grown diamonds are a fascinating alternative to natural ones.


Formation Processes

Understanding how diamonds form is crucial to appreciating the differences between the two types of diamonds. Natural diamonds are the result of complex geological processes that occur deep within the Earth’s mantle, while lab-grown diamonds are produced in laboratories using advanced technology to simulate these natural conditions.

This section will explore both the natural and synthetic formation processes, highlighting the unique characteristics of each.


How Natural Diamonds Form

Natural diamonds are primarily composed of carbon and form under extreme pressure and high temperatures around 200 kilometers below the Earth’s surface. These precious gems undergo a natural process that spans up to 3 billion years, making them some of the oldest substances on Earth. The conditions required for their formation are so specific and rare that it adds to their mystique and value.

High temperatures and pressures cause carbon atoms to bond in a crystalline structure, resulting in the formation of diamonds. This crystalline structure is what gives diamonds its hardness and brilliance. Over time, volcanic eruptions transport these diamonds closer to the Earth’s surface, where they are mined.

The journey from deep within the mantle to the surface is a testament to the incredible natural forces at play, making each natural diamond a unique piece of Earth’s history.


How Lab Grown Diamonds Are Made

Lab-grown diamonds, on the other hand, are created using methods that replicate the natural conditions of diamond formation but in a fraction of the time. The two most common methods are Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) and High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT).

The CVD process involves placing a diamond seed in a chamber filled with carbon-rich gas. A diamond seed is an extremely thin piece of a different diamond that has been carefully sliced to create the template for a new diamond to form. When the gas is heated, carbon atoms collect onto the seed, gradually forming a diamond layer by layer. This method can produce diamonds in various colors, including blue, yellow, and pink.

The HPHT method uses natural graphite as a base material and subjects it to extreme pressures and temperatures, similar to the conditions found 200 kilometers below the Earth’s surface. Graphite is a crystalline form of carbon, which is the basis for diamond formation. This process can reach temperatures of 3000 to 4000 degrees Celsius and is effective in producing high-quality diamonds.

Both methods significantly reduce the time needed for diamond formation, making lab-grown diamonds a practical and efficient alternative to natural diamonds. Lab grown diamonds are especially helpful to various manufacturers and scientists around the globe as they are able to be created with certain specifications in mind. 


Key Differences Between Lab Grown and Natural Diamonds

While lab-grown and natural diamonds share many similarities, there are key differences that set them apart. These differences lie in their visual and physical properties, chemical composition, and value.

Let’s explore these differences in detail.


Visual and Physical Properties

Visually, lab-grown and natural diamonds are virtually indistinguishable. Both types exhibit the same levels of sparkle and brilliance, making it impossible to tell them apart with the naked eye. They can both be colorless and share similar clarity levels, ensuring that either choice provides the stunning visual appeal that diamonds are known for.

However, there are subtle differences in their inclusions. Natural diamonds often have unique inclusions formed over millions of years, while lab-grown diamonds may have different types of inclusions resulting from the growth process. HPHT-created diamonds may have metallic remnants inside that are leftover from their creation, while CVD-grown diamonds can have visually interesting inclusions such as planar clouds or comet remnants. 

Despite these differences, the visual and physical properties of lab-grown and natural diamonds remain remarkably similar, ensuring that both types of diamonds offer the same dazzling beauty.


Chemical Composition

Chemically, both lab-grown and natural diamonds consist primarily of pure carbon. However, natural diamonds often contain tiny amounts of nitrogen, which can influence their color and properties. Lab-grown diamonds, on the other hand, typically lack these trace elements, resulting in a slightly different chemical makeup.


Value and Pricing

One of the most significant differences between lab-grown and natural diamonds is their value and pricing. Lab-grown diamonds are typically priced between 60% to 85% less than comparable natural diamonds, making them a cost-effective option. This lower cost is due to the higher production capabilities and reduced time needed to create lab diamonds.

However, the resale value of lab-grown diamonds tends to be lower than natural diamonds. Natural diamonds generally hold their value better, partly due to their rarity and the time-intensive process required for their formation.

Value is in the eye of the beholder. What may be attractive to potential future buyers may not interest you, especially if you mean for your diamond jewelry to pass down for generations to come.


Ethical and Environmental Considerations

The ethical and environmental considerations surrounding diamonds are crucial factors for many consumers. Lab-grown diamonds are often seen as a more sustainable and ethical choice due to their reduced environmental impact and the absence of mining practices.

However, understanding the full scope of these considerations requires a deeper look at both lab-grown and natural diamonds.


Sustainability of Lab Grown Diamonds

Lab-grown diamonds have a distinct advantage in terms of sustainability. The process of creating lab diamonds is energy-intensive, but is made more sustainable by using renewable energy sources. Additionally, lab-grown diamonds require significantly less water and generate far less waste when compared to mining natural diamonds. 

The potential for lab-grown diamonds to be produced sustainably makes them an attractive option for environmentally conscious consumers. With advancements in technology, the sustainability profile of lab-grown diamonds is expected to improve further.


Environmental Impact of Natural Diamonds

The environmental impact of mining natural diamonds is significant. Diamond mining can cause extensive habitat destruction, leading to biodiversity loss and other ecological consequences. However, it’s important to recognize that diamond mining also provides a primary income source for many local communities, supporting infrastructure and services.

Understanding both the environmental and socio-economic impacts of natural diamond mining is essential for evaluating the true cost of these gems. While mining can have adverse effects, it can also bring substantial benefits to communities, making the ethical considerations more complex than they might initially appear.


Ethical Sourcing

Ethical sourcing is a critical aspect of the diamond industry. Lab-grown diamonds are often marketed as more ethical because they do not involve mining, reducing environmental and social concerns. However, the ethical implications of lab-grown diamonds depend on production practices and transparency.

For natural diamonds, blockchain technology has been suggested as a method to ensure an ethical supply chain, addressing issues such as exploitative labor practices. The ethical implications of natural diamonds has long been pulled into question, so the ability to verify the history of your diamond is a step towards creating a better future for those involved in mining.

Personal values and preferences play a significant role in choosing between lab-grown and natural diamonds, with ethical considerations being a major factor.


Grading and Certification

natural vs lab grown diamonds

Grading and certification are crucial for assessing the quality and value of both lab-grown and natural diamonds. Both types of diamonds are graded using the same standards, primarily focusing on the Four Cs: Carat, Cut, Color, and Clarity.

Understanding the grading process can help consumers make informed decisions and ensure they are getting a high-quality diamond.


How Lab Grown Diamonds Are Graded

Lab-grown diamonds are graded much the same as naturally formed diamonds. Reputable organizations such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and the International Gemological Institute (IGI) have been ensuring the quality of diamonds for decades. These certification bodies follow stringent standards to assess the quality of lab grown diamonds. The GIA has been grading lab-grown diamonds since 2007 and IGI since 2005, employing a detailed process that includes an examination by expert gemologists and a thorough assessment of physical attributes.

Grading reports for lab-grown diamonds provide consumers with essential information on the stone’s grading details, helping them make informed purchasing decisions. These reports ensure transparency and trust, allowing buyers to understand the quality and value of the diamonds they are considering.


How Natural Diamonds Are Graded

Natural diamonds, like lab grown diamonds, are graded by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and the International Gemological Institute (IGI). Both the GIA and IGI use a D-Z color scale and a FL-I3 clarity scale to grade natural diamonds, ensuring a standardized assessment of each diamond’s quality. To maintain accuracy and reliability, GIA grades each diamond by two different gemologists. IGI utilizes a strict anonymity protocol and utilizes multiple gemologists to independently grade the diamond.

The purpose of these grading reports is to provide an accurate representation of a diamond’s attributes, helping consumers make informed decisions. With detailed information on the Four Cs, buyers can confidently evaluate the quality and value of natural diamonds.


Durability and Quality

Durability and quality are vital considerations when comparing lab-grown and natural diamonds. While they are considered chemically and physically identical, certain attributes work against their durability and quality.


Durability of Lab Grown Diamonds

Lab-grown diamonds exhibit the same hardness and durability as natural diamonds, both scoring a perfect 10 on the Mohs scale. This means they are equally resistant to scratching and damage under normal wear conditions. Their hardness doesn’t make them completely immune to damage, but with regular care diamonds can outlast their owner indefinitely.


Quality Factors

Lab-grown diamonds can exhibit inclusions that are different from those found in natural diamonds, such as metallic or flux-like inclusions. These inclusions are a result of the specific growth methods used, like HPHT and CVD.

Additionally, CVD diamonds can be affected by issues such as crystal strain, tinge problems, and other unique issues. Getting your diamond appraised and graded can help ensure that the diamond you’re purchasing is free from any flaws that might risk its integrity down the line.


Market Trends and Future Outlook

The diamond market is evolving, with lab-grown diamonds gaining significant traction. This doesn’t mean that the demand for natural diamonds is waning, but having an alternative definitely puts pressure on them.


Current Market Trends

Lab-grown diamonds have seen a remarkable rise in popularity, now accounting for nearly 20% of all global diamond jewelry sales. More couples continue to choose lab-grown diamonds for their engagement and wedding rings. This growth is reflected in the market value, which surged from less than $1 billion in 2016 to nearly $12 billion by 2022, making up over 17% of the overall diamond market. Popular retailers have reported significant sales increases, highlighting the consumer interest in lab-grown diamonds.

Lab-grown diamonds are used heavily in various industries as their ability to reflect light, withstand pressure, and high thermal conductivity make them endlessly attractive. With the ability to create a diamond and then have it cut and tailored to fit specific roles, it’s no wonder that they have surpassed naturally formed diamonds in the industrial sector.

Advancements in technology have dispelled the misconception that only small lab-grown diamonds can be produced, showcasing the potential for larger and higher-quality diamonds. Factors such as affordability and improved quality have contributed to the commercialization of lab-grown diamonds, positively influencing market dynamics.

Future Prospects

The future of lab-grown diamonds looks promising, with the market expected to continue expanding at a double-digit percentage rate annually. Growing consumer acceptance of lab-grown diamonds as ethical and sustainable alternatives will likely enhance demand in the coming years.

Collaboration among companies is anticipated to increase, focusing on innovative product development to strengthen market positions.


Choosing Between Lab Grown and Natural Diamonds

Choosing between lab-grown and natural diamonds involves considering various factors such as budget, ethical concerns, and personal preferences.

This section will offer guidance on making an informed decision based on these considerations.


Factors to Consider

When choosing between lab-grown and natural diamonds, budget is often a primary consideration. Lab-grown diamonds offer significant cost savings, allowing consumers to purchase larger or higher-quality diamonds for a lower price. Additionally, lab-grown diamonds are seen as more ethical and environmentally friendly due to the absence of mining practices. 

On the other hand, natural diamonds may hold better resale value due to their rarity and the extensive time required for their formation. The idea of owning something millions, if not billions of years old, that has withstood immense pressure and has undergone an unbelievable journey makes diamonds a perfect allegory for how relationships (romantic, familial, or otherwise) should stand the ultimate test of time. 


Personal Preferences

Personal preferences play a significant role in the decision-making process for diamonds. Some individuals prioritize sustainability and ethical sourcing, making lab-grown diamonds an attractive option. Others may value the authenticity and traditional symbolism associated with natural diamonds.

Reflecting on your values and preferences will help you choose the diamond that best aligns with your beliefs and lifestyle.


Wrapping Up

Both lab-grown and natural diamonds offer unique advantages and considerations. Lab-grown diamonds are an affordable, sustainable, and ethical alternative to natural diamonds without compromising beauty or quality. They are chemically and physically identical to natural diamonds, making them a compelling choice for many consumers.

Natural diamonds, on the other hand, hold a timeless appeal due to their geological origins and rarity. They often have better resale value and are deeply rooted in tradition and symbolism. 

Ultimately, the choice between lab-grown and natural diamonds is solely up to you.


Frequently Asked Questions


Are lab-grown diamonds real diamonds?

Yes, lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds, as they possess the same chemical, physical, and optical properties as natural diamonds. You can confidently consider them equivalent in quality and appearance.


How long does it take to create a lab-grown diamond?

Lab-grown diamonds can be created in approximately 2 to 4 weeks, offering a quick alternative to the natural diamond formation process that takes billions of years. This efficiency makes them an attractive choice.


What are the environmental benefits of lab-grown diamonds?

Lab-grown diamonds are created in a lab with a much smaller ecological footprint and offer substantial environmental benefits by using significantly less water and generating less waste than mined diamonds. By skipping the mines, they avoid damaging delicate ecostructures and habitat loss. Furthermore, their production can leverage renewable energy sources, making them a more sustainable choice.


How are lab-grown diamonds graded?

Lab-grown diamonds are graded by certification bodies such as GIA and IGI, using the same criteria as natural diamonds, namely the Four Cs: Carat, Cut, Color, and Clarity. This ensures that their quality is assessed consistently and transparently.


Do lab-grown diamonds have resale value?

Lab-grown diamonds typically have lower resale value than natural diamonds, primarily because they are more widely available and less expensive. Consequently, if you're considering a purchase with resale in mind, it's important to factor this into your decision.