Natural Diamonds vs. Lab Grown Diamonds - Which Is Best for You?

Natural Diamonds vs. Lab-Grown Diamonds - Which Is Best for You?

 When it comes to choosing a diamond, one of the biggest decisions to make is whether you opt for a natural-mined diamond or a lab-grown one.

At Diamond Collective, we totally understand that everyone has different wants and needs, which is why we focus on delivering a thorough and transparent diamond education experience to all our clients. This gives you the opportunity to make an informed decision that is best for you.

Natural diamonds have long been the traditional choice, however, in recent years lab-grown diamonds have been gaining momentum in popularity.

If you find yourself torn between the two, this guide will provide a walkthrough of the differences, benefits, and any factors to consider when choosing your diamond.

Understanding the Differences Between Natural Diamonds and Lab-grown Diamonds

Understanding the difference between natural-mined diamonds and lab-grown diamonds is crucial in making an informed decision. First, let’s debunk the common misconception that lab-grown diamonds aren’t real diamonds. Both are in fact real diamonds. Visually, chemically and physically the same, the only true difference between the two is price and origin.

In other words - how they are formed!

Natural diamonds are formed deep within the earth over millions of years, under intense heat and pressure. While lab-grown diamonds are created in a highly controlled environment using high-pressure, high-temperature (HPHT) or chemical vapour deposition (CVD)  techniques. This process mimics the exact process in which diamonds form naturally in the ground.

 

One key distinction between the two is their origin. Natural diamonds are mined from the earth, often requiring extensive labour and potentially causing environmental damage.

In contrast, lab-grown diamonds are a slightly more sustainable alternative as they are manufactured in a laboratory, reducing the environmental impact associated with mining. However it is important to also know that the process still requires a substantial amount of energy to produce.

The rarity of natural diamonds contributes to their higher price tag compared to lab-grown diamonds, which can offer a more budget-friendly option.

However, it's important to note that lab-grown diamonds are equally as beautiful and contain all the same characteristics.  

The Advantages of Natural Diamonds

While lab-grown diamonds have gained popularity in recent years, natural diamonds offer a unique set of advantages that can make them a desirable choice for many people.

First and foremost, natural diamonds hold an intrigue that stems from their formation deep within the earth. There is a certain romance attached to owning a diamond that is millions of years old and has journeyed through intense geological processes. The natural beauty and rarity of these diamonds cannot be replicated, adding to their value and desirability.

Another advantage of natural diamonds is their investment potential. Natural diamonds often appreciate in value over time, making them a long-term investment that can be passed down through generations.

Natural diamonds are graded and certified by reputable gemological laboratories, ensuring their authenticity and quality. This gives buyers confidence in the value and integrity of their purchase. 

The Advantages of Lab-grown Diamonds

Lab-grown diamonds also offer a range of advantages that make them a very appealing option as well.

Some of the benefits of lab-grown diamonds are their ethical and sustainable nature, as well as being a much more affordable option.

The production process allows for greater control and efficiency, resulting in lower costs. This means you can get more bang for your buck and often a larger-sized diamond without breaking the bank.

Lab-grown diamonds offer a range of options in terms of size, shape, and colour. The controlled process in which they are formed enables manufacturers to create diamonds in a variety of specifications, allowing buyers to find the perfect stone that suits their personal preferences.

As part of our DC diamond education experience, we will delve deeper into the world of lab-grown diamonds, addressing common misconceptions and exploring their technical and aesthetic qualities.

By the end of your DC diamond education, you'll be equipped with the knowledge to make an informed decision about whether a natural or lab-grown diamond is the best choice for you.

What to Consider When Choosing Between Natural and Lab-grown Diamonds

While both types of diamonds have their own unique benefits, certain aspects may be more important to you depending on your personal preferences and values.

Firstly, the longevity and value retention of your diamond may be something you consider super important. Natural diamonds have a longstanding reputation for their enduring value, which can be appreciated over time. On the other hand, lab-grown diamonds are a relatively new addition to the market, and their long-term value retention is still being observed. 

Secondly, the emotional and sentimental aspect of a diamond may hold significance for you. Natural diamonds have a rich history compared to lab-grown diamonds, however, both can still symbolise a personal and sentimental milestone to you, making them cherished heirlooms passed down through generations.  

Finally, your environmental and ethical concerns may shape your decision. While lab-grown diamonds are a slightly more ethical and sustainably conscious choice, natural diamonds can now be certified as conflict-free with measures taken to reduce their environmental impact. 

Making an informed decision: Which is best for you?

When it comes to making a decision between natural diamonds and lab-grown diamonds, you really want to have all the info at your fingertips.

From a technical standpoint, natural diamonds are unique, each possessing different characteristics including colour, clarity, and cut. This individuality gives natural diamonds a certain intrigue and charm. 

On the other hand, lab-grown diamonds can be created with specific specifications, ensuring consistency in colour and clarity.

Aesthetically, both types of diamonds are virtually identical to the naked eye. The brilliance, sparkle, and overall beauty of a diamond are not determined by its origin but rather by its cut and quality.

Ultimately, the decision between natural diamonds and lab-grown diamonds comes down to personal preference and values. Whether you prioritise the sentimental value of a natural diamond or if size is your vibe, determining what matters most to you will help you choose the diamond that best aligns with you.

The Future of Diamonds: Trends and Advancements in the Industry

In addition to all of the above, you may also want to look ahead at the future of the diamond industry. As technology continues to advance, new trends and developments are shaping the way diamonds are produced and consumed.

One of the most significant trends is an increased demand for lab-grown diamonds. With growing concerns about the environmental impact and ethical concerns associated with mining natural diamonds, more consumers are opting for the alternative. 

As a result, the lab-grown diamond industry is experiencing rapid growth, offering consumers a wider range of options and competitive pricing. 

Advancements in diamond technology are constantly pushing boundaries. Researchers and scientists are continuously developing new methods to enhance the quality and value of lab-grown diamonds. These advancements have already led to larger and higher-quality lab-grown diamonds, making them more desirable to consumers. 

How We Can Help 

When booking in for an appointment with one of our DC diamond experts, you can feel confident that you’ll be presented with all the info you need to make a decision. Completely unbiased and transparent!

By the end of your DC experience, you’ll be a diamond expert too - equipped with all the knowledge you need to make a decision about whether lab or natural is for you!

 Get in touch with us here.