Natural vs Lab-Grown Diamonds – Everything You Need To Know

Diamonds have always been the go-to symbol of love and luxury. As technology improves, so do the possibilities for those in pursuit of the perfect sparkle. Because of these innovative developments, you now have the option to select either natural or lab-grown diamonds.

In this article, you’ll discover everything you need to know about lab-grown and mined diamonds, from their different origins to what makes them shine. With our help, you’ll be able to choose the perfect stone to fit your style and values.

How are lab diamonds made?

Lab diamonds are created in controlled environments using advanced technology. There are currently two processes used to create them. 

One is known as HPHT (high pressure, high temperature), which replicates the way natural diamonds form. A very tiny diamond, known as a diamond seed, is placed in carbon, the element natural diamonds come from. It is then exposed to extreme pressure and heat, just as natural diamonds are underground. The carbon melts and forms around the seed, and the resulting product is cooled to form the finished diamond.

The second, more recent process is known as CVD (chemical vapour deposition), which uses less pressure and smaller machines than the HPHT process. CVD involves putting the diamond seed into a vacuum changer which is filled with carbon-rich gasses and heated. The high temperatures cause the gas to turn to plasma, which then releases carbon pieces. These pieces settle on the seed and layer, which forms the diamond. 

Can you tell the difference between natural and lab-grown diamonds?

The conditions lab-grown stones are grown in replicate how diamonds are formed naturally. This creates lab diamonds that are identical to natural stones, both chemically, physically and visually.

Spotting the difference between lab-grown and natural diamonds can be a bit like finding a needle in a haystack. They look so similar to the naked eye, sharing the same toughness, shine and overall dazzling appearance. The only way to tell the difference is via testing. 

Are lab diamonds as good as real diamonds?

The answer is yes, lab-grown diamonds are just as good as diamonds mined from the earth. They are identical in every way, except for their origins and price.

Lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds. The only difference is they are formed in a controlled lab environment instead of underground.

Lab diamonds are becoming increasingly popular due to their lower price and identical qualities to mined diamonds, along with their ethical creation. Buying a lab diamond engagement ring means more money to spend on the wedding and no guilt when it comes to the stone’s origin.

Lab-grown diamond benefits

Let’s summarise the benefits of a lab-grown diamond.

-Lower price point than mined diamonds.

-Zero ethical concerns.

-Eco-friendly and sustainable.

-Visually, chemically and physically identical to mined diamonds.

Reduced environmental impact

Lab-grown diamonds require less land disruption and energy compared to traditionally mined diamonds. They offer a sustainable alternative for eco-conscious consumers looking for a sustainable product. 

Diamonds grown in a lab are free from ethical concerns. These concerns occur because of the muddied supply chain in the natural diamond industry, which is difficult to track from mining to arriving in a shop. There is a demand for low-cost diamonds, which leads to unethical practices such as forced labour. With a lab-grown stone, you can be sure that your diamond doesn’t come from a questionably ethical source.

Much more affordable

Lab-grown diamonds cost less because their production process is more controlled and predictable. Compare that to natural diamonds, whose prices often soar due to their rarity and the hefty costs associated with mining and distribution.

If you want to save money to go towards an engagement party, your wedding, or even your honeymoon, consider a lab-grown diamond engagement ring. 

Always available

There’s no need to cross your fingers for geological miracles. Lab-grown diamonds offer a consistent supply, perfect for those on the hunt for specific characteristics without depending on the unpredictability of nature.

The sustainable aspect of lab diamonds is one of the reasons they are so popular. The demand will always be met, and you can rest easy knowing that no forced labour has gone into its creation to have it constantly available.

Should I Get a Lab-Grown Diamond Engagement Ring?

Yes! Lab grown diamonds are certainly a great engagement ring option. It will be just as beautiful and around two-thirds of the cost. They are physically and chemically identical to mined diamonds so will last just as long, and require the exact same care. 

If you’re still unsure about how a lab-grown diamond can be just as stunning as a natural diamond, come and visit us in our Norwich store. A member of our friendly expert team will walk you through our collections of both mined and lab stones. You’ll be amazed at what you discover.