Lab-Grown vs. Natural Diamonds: What You Really Need to Know
Here’s the simple, unbiased comparison.
Both lab-grown and natural diamonds are real. They look the same, test the same, and sparkle the same. The difference is how they form and how they’re priced.
Natural diamonds and precious stones are mined in several locations and are done so in an ethical manner. We utilize global partnerships to assure traceability and sustainability to the land from which they are mined. We appreciate that for many of these regions, they are the primary industry that provides the means for living, housing, food and education for their communities.
Lab diamonds and lab precious stone variants are also produced in several locations and it is equally important to assure ethical sourcing. We assure global partners uphold safe work environments and sustainability to the local environment in which the large energy sources required to make these stones are utilized. It is as important to assure these are “green” as are natural diamonds.
1. What Are Natural Diamonds, Rubies, Emeralds and Sapphires?
- Formed over billions of years
- Mined from the earth
- More rare
- Have traditionally held long-term value well, but there is uncertainty in future valuation
- Traditional choice
- Luxury item
- Exclusivity remains
- Not affordable for a large portion of the population
2. What Are Lab-Grown Diamonds, Rubies, Emeralds and Sapphires?
- Created using heat + pressure technology
- Identical physical and optical structure
- Sustainable option
- Larger size for the budget
- Poor valuation and resale is difficult
- Luxurious, but lacks exclusivity
- Affordable for a large portion of the population
3. Cost Difference
Lab-grown diamonds typically cost much less than natural diamonds of the same size and quality.
4. Appearance
They look identical. You cannot tell them apart without specialized equipment. The primary way to identify a large lab stone is a piece that is out of context. 5 carat yellow diamonds with high grade and deep yellow hue are extremely rare worldwide and would reach over one million dollars in a finished piece. This is not a diamond I would tie around my scrubs string on the daily. If you love the look of large, high grade jewelry without the stress and cost of identical piece in natural, then lab is a great option. If you are investing in heirloom pieces and you seek high end luxury, natural is unquestionably the best choice for you.
5. Long-Term Considerations
Choose lab-grown if:
✔ you want a larger stone
✔ you want maximum sparkle for your budget
Choose natural if:
✔ you want rarity
✔ you want long-term value stability
✔ you love the geological history
6. Which Should You Choose?
Most clients choose based on:
- size preference
- symbolism
- budget range
- long-term goals
We present both options side-by-side so your decision feels clear and comfortable. We protect client privacy in purchasing and will not disclose lab or natural identification information without your consent. This is not only to allow for discretion in your decision, but to assure the safety of our clients and gems!