Lab-Grown Diamonds vs. Natural Diamonds: Which Should You Choose?

Natural Diamonds. When it comes to diamonds and other gemstones you might look for brilliance, beauty and timelessness but there are significant differences and these can aid your choice. In this blog, we will be comparing Lab Grown Diamonds and Natural Diamonds so as to be in a position to assist clients to make the right decisions with regard to their hearts’ desires, financial capabilities and lastly the preferences.

What Are Natural Diamonds?

Natural Diamonds are created at very high pressures and temperatures, the carbon atoms are squeezed so much that they start touching more atoms. When the pressure is about 50,000 times the pressure at the surface of the Earth and the temperature is about 1600°C, the carbon atoms bond with 4 other atoms and result in diamonds. Magma erupts from the Earth's mantle, carrying diamonds to the surface. Diamonds are the hardest natural element found on earth.


By its rarity and the geological process, during which they are formed, natural diamonds were always considered to be the product of luxury and high cost. They have these traditions associated with them and thus used in engagement rings and other types of jewelry.


Key Characteristics of Natural Diamonds:


  • Formed naturally over billions of years

  • Often considered more valuable due to rarity

  • Sought after for their unique inclusions and character

  • Traditionally viewed as the classic choice for high-end jewelry

What Are Lab Diamonds?

Lab diamonds can be referred also as synthetic or man-made diamonds and they are produced in laboratory conditions. These are Synthetic diamonds or man made diamonds which are produced in technologically created methods as HPHT or CVD.


Chemical Vapor Deposition(CVD): A small slice of diamonds is placed in a chamber and exposed to carbon-rich gas and high temperatures. The carbon gas ionizes and sticks to the diamond, eventually crystallizing into a diamond. This process is similar to 3D printing with a gas.


High Pressure High Temperature(HPHT): A diamond seed is exposed to extremely high pressures and temperatures, similar to the conditions of the Earth’s mantle. A metal catalyst helps convert pure carbon to diamond.


Even though co-cultivated in a laboratory, lab diamonds are identical to naturally cultivated diamonds regarding their chemical composition of Carbon, their crystal structure (a face-centered cubic or FCC lattice), and optical characteristics. No, they are not like Cubic Zirconia which is a diamond look-a-like and made of zirconium dioxide. Instead, they are real Diamonds, created by scientists and not nature.


Key Characteristics of Lab Diamonds:


  • Identical in appearance to natural diamonds

  • Often more affordable than natural diamonds

  • Available in a variety of shapes and sizes

  • Growing in popularity due to their ethical and sustainable production

Appearance: Can You Tell the Difference?

Even a comparison of lab diamonds and natural diamonds will show no significant differences in vision. Neither of the above types of diamonds lacks brilliance, fire, and sparkle, provided the diamond is well cut and polished. Ordinarily, someone with professional experience such as a jeweler would need other tools to tell whether a diamond is cultured or mined.


It’s also important to notice that both lab and natural diamonds can be found in the same cuts, such as round, oval, princess, or emerald, and can come with the same degrees of cut, color, and clarity.

Price Comparison: Lab Diamonds vs. Natural Diamonds

It can be said that lab created diamonds cost 30%-40% less than natural diamonds of similar cut, color and clarity. This cost difference means that lab-created diamonds are considerably cheaper than natural stones if you are planning to purchase one with a comparable cost.


However, it is good to know the fact that in the long run, Lab diamonds do not have such good market value as compared to natural diamonds which people determine as a better investment.

Durability and Longevity

As for the hardness, both lab created and natural diamonds are ranked 10 on Mohs scale of mineral hardness and this proves that both are very hard, have the ability to scratch and are ideal for daily use in engagement rings and other jewelries.


It should be noted that both the lab and the natural diamonds will have the same lifespan that is a lifetime when taken good care.

Ethical and Environmental Considerations

The two primary reasons that make people use lab diamonds include; There is a problem with mining natural diamonds due to the impact on the planet. Although most natural diamonds are now accredited as being ‘conflict-free,’ their mining is a highly damaging activity which entails deforestation, the destruction of animal habitats, and the emission of carbon.


The second type of diamonds known as lab grown is quite disadvantageous to the natural diamond in that they are environmentally friendly. It is important to note that they are artificially grown in laboratories with less resources and free from social and environmental-related vice that characterize normal diamond mining.

Resale Value and Market Perception

Natural diamonds have historically been considered valuable investments, and their rarity continues to make them desirable in the market. However, lab diamonds are gaining popularity, particularly among younger buyers who prioritize sustainability and affordability over tradition.


In terms of resale, natural diamonds generally hold their value better than lab diamonds, but the gap may narrow as lab-grown diamonds become more widely accepted in the market.

Which One Should You Choose?

When choosing between a lab diamond and a natural diamond, there are several factors to consider:


  1. Budget: If you’re looking for a more affordable option without compromising on quality, lab diamonds are a great choice.

  2. Ethical Concerns: If environmental sustainability and ethical sourcing are important to you, lab diamonds offer a clear advantage.

  3. Sentimental Value: For those who value tradition and rarity, a natural diamond may feel more meaningful.

  4. Resale Value: If you’re considering your diamond as an investment, natural diamonds typically offer better long-term value.


Ultimately, the decision comes down to your personal priorities and preferences. Both lab-grown and natural diamonds are stunning, durable, and luxurious, so there’s no wrong choice.

Conclusion

Lab diamonds and natural diamonds each offer unique advantages. Lab diamonds provide a modern, ethical, and affordable option, while natural diamonds carry a sense of tradition, rarity, and long-term value. Whether you choose a lab-grown diamond or a natural one, both will bring brilliance and beauty to any piece of jewelry you select.

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