DIAMOND EDUCATION
Natural vs. Lab Grown Diamonds
UNDERSTANDING YOUR OPTIONS
Natural vs. Lab-Grown Diamonds
Natural and lab-grown diamonds share the same fundamental chemical composition and crystal structure, but they have very different origins.
Natural diamonds form deep within the Earth over immense periods of time, while lab-grown diamonds are created in controlled environments using technology that recreates the conditions in which diamonds develop.
Understanding those differences can help you decide which option best fits your priorities, preferences and budget.
The Biggest Difference Is Their Origin
Natural Diamonds
Natural diamonds were formed deep within the Earth under tremendous heat and pressure. The diamonds we see today are the result of geological processes that occurred over extremely long periods of time before bringing them closer to the Earth's surface.
Lab-Grown Diamonds
Lab-grown diamonds are created using specialized technology that produces the conditions necessary for diamond crystal growth. The process takes place over a much shorter period of time within a controlled laboratory environment.
What Do They Have in Common?
Lab-grown diamonds are not diamond simulants. Although their origins differ, natural and laboratory-grown diamonds share the fundamental properties that define diamond.
Composition
Both natural and lab-grown diamonds are composed primarily of carbon arranged in the characteristic crystal structure of diamond.
Hardness
Both are diamonds and share the exceptional hardness that makes diamond particularly well suited for frequently worn jewelry.
Appearance
Both can display the brilliance, fire and sparkle associated with diamonds. Their origin generally cannot be determined simply by looking at them without specialized testing.
Quality Factors
Both can be evaluated using familiar diamond quality characteristics such as cut, color, clarity and carat weight.
HOW LAB DIAMONDS ARE CREATED
HPHT & CVD
Two primary methods are used to grow diamonds in a laboratory: High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD).
HPHT uses extremely high pressure and temperature to create conditions that encourage diamond crystal growth.
CVD typically grows diamond from carbon-containing gases inside a controlled chamber, gradually building the diamond crystal.
Once grown, a lab-created diamond is cut and polished much like a natural diamond.
Natural vs. Lab-Grown at a Glance
The physical similarities are significant, but origin, availability and market dynamics create important differences for buyers to consider.
Origin
Natural: Formed through geological processes within the Earth.
Lab-Grown: Created in a controlled laboratory environment.
Price
Natural: Generally carries a higher purchase price when comparing diamonds with similar quality characteristics.
Lab-Grown: Generally allows a larger or higher-graded diamond within the same initial budget.
Rarity
Natural: Supply depends on naturally occurring diamond deposits and geological formation.
Lab-Grown: Production can continue as manufacturing technology and capacity expand.
Long-Term Value
Diamond jewelry should primarily be purchased to wear and enjoy rather than as a guaranteed financial investment. Market pricing and resale value can change over time for both natural and lab-grown diamonds.
AN IMPORTANT DISTINCTION
Lab-Grown Diamonds Are Not Diamond Simulants
A lab-grown diamond should not be confused with a diamond simulant.
Materials such as cubic zirconia and moissanite may be used to create the appearance of a diamond, but they are different materials with their own chemical, physical and optical properties.
A laboratory-grown diamond, by contrast, has the crystal structure and fundamental material properties of diamond. Its defining difference from a natural diamond is how and where it formed.
Which Diamond Is Right for You?
You May Prefer Natural If...
The natural origin, geological history and relative rarity of the diamond are meaningful parts of the purchase for you.
You May Prefer Lab-Grown If...
Your priority is maximizing size or quality characteristics within a particular initial purchase budget while still choosing a diamond.
THERE ISN'T ONE RIGHT ANSWER
Choose What Matters to You
Choosing between a natural and lab-grown diamond is ultimately a personal decision. Both options can produce beautiful diamond jewelry that can be enjoyed for years to come.
Consider what matters most to you: origin, rarity, size, quality characteristics, budget and the story you want your jewelry to represent.