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Lab vs Natural Diamond

When it comes to diamonds, there are two main types to choose from — natural diamonds and lab grown diamonds. While both share the same sparkle, beauty, and composition, there are key differences in how they are formed, priced, and valued. Understanding these differences can help you choose the perfect diamond for your style and budget with confidence.

How They Are Formed

Natural diamonds were created deep within the Earth’s mantle billions of years ago. Under immense heat and pressure, pure carbon transformed into crystal structures that eventually became diamonds. Over time, volcanic eruptions carried these stones closer to the Earth’s surface through kimberlite pipes — where they are now mined from ancient volcanic rock. Because of this natural process, diamonds are found in limited quantities, and mining them requires significant effort, skill, and resources. Lab grown diamonds, on the other hand, are created in modern laboratories that replicate the same natural conditions — using either High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) or Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD) technology. Both methods use pure carbon and extreme heat and pressure to grow a diamond crystal identical to one formed in nature. Chemically, optically, and physically, lab grown diamonds are exactly the same as natural ones — the only difference is their origin.

Development

Lab-grown diamonds, on the other hand, are just that: diamonds grown in a lab. CVD (chemical vapor deposition) and HPHT (high-pressure high temperature) are the two methods used to create these types of stones; both involve using pure carbon, intense pressure, and high heat to develop the crystalline structure of the diamond. But here's the most important part: Since a diamond created in a lab isstillpure carbon, it is, chemically speaking, the exact same as a natural diamond. 

Price and Affordability

Natural diamonds tend to be more expensive due to their rarity and the extensive mining process required to extract and polish them. Their cost also reflects the large supply chains and branding associated with traditional diamond companies. Lab grown diamonds, however, don’t require mining, making them far more cost-effective and environmentally conscious. They can cost up to 50 - 70% less than a natural diamond of the same carat, clarity, colour, and cut — while offering the same brilliance and durability. This makes them an attractive choice for buyers who want a bigger or higher-quality diamond within the same budget.

Price Difference 

Alternatively, lab diamonds are going to be less expensive than natural diamonds—sometimes up to 50 percent less than a natural stone of similar grade—because they aren’t controlled by the same supply chains.

Value and Perception

The value of a diamond — whether natural or lab grown — is shaped by the market and consumer demand. A natural diamond often carries a higher resale value because of its rarity, while a lab grown diamond is typically priced lower since it’s easier to produce. However, both are genuine diamonds, and appraisers will grade them based on the 4Cs (Cut, Colour, Clarity, and Carat Weight) — not based on how they were created. When buying a diamond ring, it’s best to focus on its emotional and symbolic meaning rather than resale value. After all, a diamond is cherished for what it represents — love, commitment, and forever — not its market worth.

Looking Ahead

As technology continues to advance, lab grown diamonds may become even more accessible and affordable, potentially influencing their long-term market value. Meanwhile, natural diamonds will continue to be prized for their geological origin and timeless rarity.
Regardless of your choice, both offer enduring beauty and brilliance — and at Rings of UK, we’re proud to offer both lab grown and natural diamonds, so you can choose the one that perfectly suits your values, style, and story.

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