Lab Grown Vs Natural Diamond

Q: Do lab grown diamonds look fake?

No, lab grown diamonds look just like natural diamonds. They are chemically, physically, and optically identical to natural diamonds. Their brilliance, sparkle, and clarity are just the same as mined diamonds, so they look just as beautiful.

Q: Do lab grown diamonds get cloudy?

Lab grown diamonds do not get cloudy over time. They are made of pure carbon, just like natural diamonds, and their clarity remains excellent with proper care. They can be cleaned and maintained in the same way as natural diamonds.

When it comes to buying diamonds, you have two main options: lab grown diamonds and natural diamonds. Both have their own unique qualities, so it's important to understand the differences before making a decision. In this blog, we’ll compare the two to help you decide which one is best for you.

What Are Lab Grown Diamonds?

Lab grown diamonds, also called synthetic or man-made diamonds, are created in a laboratory using advanced technology. These diamonds are made to mimic the natural process of diamond formation, so they are identical in every way to diamonds found in the Earth.

What Are Natural Diamonds?

Natural diamonds are formed naturally under extreme heat and pressure deep inside the Earth over billions of years. They are mined from the Earth and have long been considered rare and precious.

Key Differences Between Lab Grown and Natural Diamonds

Origin

Lab Grown Diamonds: Created in a lab using methods like High-Pressure High-Temperature (HPHT) or Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD).

Natural Diamonds: Formed naturally deep inside the Earth.

Appearance

Lab Grown Diamonds: Look exactly the same as natural diamonds, with the same brilliance and sparkle.

Natural Diamonds: Each diamond has unique features or inclusions, which can make them special in their own way.

Cost

Lab Grown Diamonds: Are typically 20-40% less expensive than natural diamonds, so you get more value for your money.

Natural Diamonds: Are generally more expensive because they are rare and the mining process is costly.

Environmental Impact

Lab Grown Diamonds: More eco-friendly since they don’t require mining and have a smaller carbon footprint.

Natural Diamonds: Mining can cause environmental damage, including habitat destruction and high energy use.

Value and Resale

Lab Grown Diamonds: May have a lower resale value since they are not as rare.

Natural Diamonds: Often hold their value better due to their natural rarity.

Ethics

Lab Grown Diamonds: They are always conflict-free, which means no harm is done to communities during production.

Natural Diamonds: Some diamonds may come from conflict zones, though many jewelers now sell conflict-free diamonds.

Why Choose Lab Grown Diamonds?

Affordable: Lab grown diamonds are a cost-effective way to buy a high-quality diamond.

Eco-Friendly: They have a smaller environmental impact compared to mined diamonds.

Ethical: They are guaranteed to be conflict-free, giving you peace of mind.

Customizable: Lab grown diamonds can be made to your exact specifications in size and shape.

Why Choose Natural Diamonds?

Timeless Value: Natural diamonds are rare and have been treasured for centuries.

Emotional Significance: Many people value the story and tradition behind natural diamonds.

Resale Value: Natural diamonds tend to retain their value better over time.

Unique Charm: Each natural diamond has its own unique characteristics.

Which One Should You Choose?

Go for Lab Grown Diamonds If:

You want a more affordable option.
You care about sustainability and ethics.
You want a beautiful diamond without the high price tag.

Go for Natural Diamonds If:

You prefer something rare and traditional.

You’re looking for a diamond that holds its value.
You want a piece with a natural, one-of-a-kind story.

Quick Comparison Chart

Feature	Lab Grown Diamonds	Natural Diamonds
Origin	Created in labs	Mined from the Earth
Cost	More affordable	Expensive
Appearance	Identical to natural diamonds	Unique imperfections
Environmental Impact	Eco-friendly	Environmental concerns from mining
Resale Value	Lower resale value	Higher resale value
Ethical	Always conflict-free	May require certification

Choosing between lab grown and natural diamonds depends on your budget, values, and personal preferences. Lab grown diamonds are a great option for those who want a more affordable, sustainable, and ethical choice, while natural diamonds are ideal for those who prefer something rare and timeless.

Both types of diamonds are beautiful and will last a lifetime, so it’s all about what matters most to you.

FAQs

Is there any reason not to buy a lab diamond?

If you're eco-friendly and care about ethics, lab diamonds are a great choice. They’re created in controlled environments, without harming the planet or involving unfair labor. Lab-grown diamonds are just as beautiful as mined ones, but with a smaller environmental footprint.

Which is better, lab-grown diamond or natural?

Lab-grown diamonds are often considered better for those who care about the environment and ethical sourcing. They have a smaller carbon footprint, are conflict-free, and are usually more affordable than natural diamonds.

Natural diamonds, on the other hand, are formed over millions of years in the Earth’s crust, which can make them more valuable to some people for their rarity and natural origin. However, they may come with concerns about mining practices and environmental impact

Can a jeweler tell if a diamond is lab grown?

Yes, a skilled jeweler or gemologist can often tell if a diamond is lab-grown using specialized tools. Lab-grown diamonds can have slight differences in their growth patterns or inclusions compared to natural diamonds. However, to the naked eye, they look nearly identical.

Do rich people buy lab diamonds?

Yes, some wealthy people do buy lab-grown diamonds, particularly those who are focused on sustainability, ethics, and value. Lab-grown diamonds are often priced lower than natural diamonds, so even wealthy buyers may choose them to get a larger, higher-quality stone for the same price.

Do lab-grown diamonds look fake?

No, lab-grown diamonds look just like natural diamonds. They are chemically, physically, and optically identical to natural diamonds. Their brilliance, sparkle, and clarity are just the same as mined diamonds, so they look just as beautiful.

How to tell if a diamond is real?

You can try a few tests:

Fog test: Breathe on it—real diamonds won’t fog up easily.

Water test: Drop it in water—real diamonds sink.

Sparkle test: Real diamonds shine brightly and reflect light in a special way.

Since you would need specialised tools for this and any skilled jeweler can help you identity if the diamond is natural or lab grown

Do lab-grown diamonds get cloudy?

Lab-grown diamonds do not get cloudy over time. They are made of pure carbon, just like natural diamonds, and their clarity remains excellent with proper care. They can be cleaned and maintained in the same way as natural diamonds.

Do lab diamonds have resale value?

Lab-grown diamonds generally do not have the same resale value as natural diamonds. The market for used lab diamonds is still developing, and they typically do not appreciate in value over time the way natural diamonds might. However, their lower initial cost means they offer better value for money upfront.

Also read:

Lab Grown Diamonds vs. Real Diamonds: A Comparative Insight

Lab Grown vs. Natural Diamonds: Decoding the Dazzling Debate

Surprising Facts About Diamonds You Never Knew