Diamonds are one of the most favorite and beautiful stones in the world. People use them in rings, necklaces, earrings, and even royal crowns.
Do you know there are now two kinds of diamonds? One type is natural diamonds, which are found deep within the Earth. The other type is lab-grown diamonds, which scientists create in laboratories.
They both look the same. They both shine the same. But there are some big differences. This article will explain what they are, how they are made, and which one may be better for you.
Let’s learn about lab-grown diamonds vs natural diamonds and find out which one people love more today.
What Are Natural Diamonds?
Diamonds are naturally made of carbon and form in the ground over billions of years. You can see them on the surface when glaciers burst because heat and pressure shape them. As a sign of love and commitment, they are often used in jewelry. South Africa, Russia, Canada, and Australia are just a few of the places that dig for diamonds. People also think of them as an investment that will last forever.
What Are Lab-Grown Diamonds?
Lab-grown diamonds are made in a lab, not on Earth. Scientists use machines to copy the same heat and pressure that the Earth uses. It only takes a few weeks to make them. They look the same as natural diamonds. You can’t see a difference with your eyes. They shine just as bright. Lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds, too, just made faster. And they are cheaper than natural ones. That’s why many people buy lab-grown diamonds.
Lab Grown vs Natural Diamond – The Look
Lab-grown diamonds and natural diamonds look similar. If you keep them side by side, then you cannot tell the difference. Both of them shine the same and look equally bright. They come in many shapes, like round, heart, and oval.
You can use both in rings, bracelets, necklaces, and other jewelry. Even jewelers need special tools to tell them apart. You cannot see the difference with just your eyes.
If you want a diamond that looks nice, both are great. But lab-grown diamonds cost less. You get the same look for a lower price.
Below is a breakdown of lab-grown vs. natural diamonds.
Feature |
Lab Grown Diamond |
Natural Diamonds |
Durability |
Very hard (10 on Mohs scale) |
Very hard (10 on Mohs scale) |
Shine |
Same sparkle as natural diamonds |
Same sparkle as lab diamonds |
Color |
Mostly clear, but can have bright colors |
Mostly clear, but can have colors like pink, blue, and yellow |
Grading |
Judged by cut, color, clarity, and size |
Judged by cut, color, clarity, and size |
Certified |
Checked by trusted diamond experts |
Checked by trusted diamond experts |
How It's Made |
Made in labs |
Made deep in the Earth over billions of years |
Rarity |
Can be made more as needed using technology |
Limited amount because of how Earth makes them |
Price |
Costs less because it's easier to make |
Costs more because it’s rare and hard to find |
Difference Between Lab-Grown and Natural Diamonds – Price
When it comes to the price, there is a big difference between lab-grown and Natural Diamonds. The price of natural diamonds is high. This is because they are rare, and it takes millions of years to make. Additionally, it requires time and money to dig.
Lab-grown diamonds are cheap. They do not take millions of years. They can be quickly made in a laboratory. Therefore, the stores sell them for less money. You can save a lot by buying lab-grown diamonds. They give you the same beauty at a low price.
Lab Grown Diamonds vs Natural Diamonds – Value
Some people ask, "What is the value of the lab-grown and natural diamonds”? The answer is difficult. Natural diamonds retain their value over time. They can be even more expensive. This is why they are used in royal jewelry and coins.
Lab-grown diamonds cannot have the same price as natural diamonds. They are easy to make, so their price may be low. If you want a diamond as a gift or for beauty, the lab diamonds are great. But if you want a diamond as an investment, natural diamonds are better.
Which Diamond is Better for the Environment?
Digging for natural diamonds can hurt the Earth. It needs large machines and breaks the land. It can use too much water and energy. At the same time, Lab-grown diamonds are built inside buildings. They do not harm the land. They use less water and can use clean energy. Therefore, lab-grown diamonds are better for the environment.
Are The Lab-grown Diamonds Fake?
Many people ask, "Are the lab-grown diamonds fake?" There is no answer. They are real diamonds. They perform the same look, feel, and sparkle in the form of natural diamonds. Even the chemical parts are the same. The only difference is that a lab-grown diamond is built in a laboratory, and a natural diamond comes from the earth. Both can be used in wedding rings, necklaces, and earrings. So you don't have to worry, they are not fake.
Are Lab Diamonds Good for Gifts?
Yes, the lab-grown diamonds are great for gifts. You can buy a large, shiny ring or necklace for less money. It looks like a natural diamond. Even the person receiving it does not know the difference. So, if you want to show love or want to celebrate something special, then lab-grown diamonds are perfect. It is also easy to buy them online. You do not need to spend too much. But the gift will still look special.
What About Diamond Coins?
Some coins have natural diamonds. These are rare coins made for collectors. Because natural diamonds are rare, they make coins special. Some people collect these coins as an investment. However, lab-grown diamonds are not used in coins. This is because they are easy to make. So they do not make the coin more valuable. Another reason for this is that natural diamonds are still used in items such as coins and crown jewelry.
Should You Buy Lab-Grown or Natural?
It depends on what you want. If you want to keep something special, then natural diamonds can be a better option. If you want to give a good gift or save money, labs are great. Both are real. Both are beautiful. But the price and meaning may be different. Just think about what else does it matters to you: history or savings? In any way, diamonds are always a great option.
Conclusion
Now you know the main difference between lab-grown and natural diamonds. One is from the ground. The other is from the lab. Both are shiny and pretty. Both are real. If you want to save money, then go for lab-grown diamonds. If you want something rare, old, and full of value, choose natural diamonds. There’s no wrong choice. Just pick what makes you happy.