Lab Grown Diamonds vs. Natural Diamonds: Differences Explained
When you hear the term “lab-grown diamonds,” you might wonder if they are real diamonds. The answer is yes, lab-grown diamonds are real. They are genuine diamonds, chemically and visually the same. However, the difference comes down to where they are from and how they are made.
So, should you choose a lab-grown or a natural diamond? It’s essential to look at the main differences between the two to determine which may align with your priorities. You can make an informed choice by considering what matters to you, whether that be cost, the effect on the environment, or long-term investment.
The Main Differences Between Lab-Grown and Natural Diamonds
As the name suggests, lab-grown diamonds are created artificially in a laboratory rather than extracted from the earth like natural diamonds. Although lab-grown diamonds have technically been around since the 1980s, more recent technological advancements have made it possible to produce them at a reasonable cost in gem quality.
There are a few things to be aware of before you decide whether to purchase a lab-grown diamond. These diamonds are virtually indistinguishable from natural diamonds and have become increasingly popular for their ethical and environmental benefits. While lab-grown and natural diamonds share the same chemical properties, they are not the same.
Their Creation
One of the main differences between lab-grown diamonds and natural ones is how they are formed.
Natural Diamonds
The majority of natural diamonds that we see today are formed beneath the earth’s surface in the mantle layer. The solid form of a diamond is the result of the element carbon undergoing atomic-level rearrangement for billions of years under extreme heat and pressure.
Deep volcanic eruptions bring precious rocks to the Earth’s surface through kimberlite pipes in areas under the right conditions and temperatures. Due to the extreme conditions and non-carbon material, some naturally occurring diamonds develop inclusions. These inclusions, which can include tiny black spots, feathers, or pinpoints, are considered when determining a diamond’s clarity grade.
Lab-Grown Diamonds
On the other hand, lab-grown diamonds are precisely that: diamonds made in a laboratory. The most common approach is going through a procedure known as chemical vapor deposition.
It begins with a very thin slice of diamond where the crystalline structure has already taken shape. This is referred to as the diamond ‘seed.’ It is made entirely of carbon and can be either a naturally occurring diamond or one produced in a lab.
This seed is then placed into a vacuum, where the diamond seed binds to the carbon molecules, almost resembling a 3D-printed diamond. The lab-made diamond is then ready to be cut and polished, just like a natural diamond. A lab-made diamond is chemically identical to a natural diamond because it is still pure carbon.
Price Differences
Considering natural diamonds take billions of years to create, their limited supply drives up costs. The great demand, labor, and materials needed for their extraction and refinement also significantly impact their price.
On the other hand, because lab diamonds are not subject to the same supply chains as natural diamonds, they typically cost less than natural diamonds – up to 50% less than a natural stone of the same grade.
Future Value
Natural diamonds have a higher resale value than lab-grown diamonds and often keep roughly half their initial value. Lab-created diamonds are significantly harder to resell and lose a significant portion of their value after your purchase.
It’s also essential to consider how natural diamond prices vary over time compared to lab-grown diamond prices. With lab-created diamonds becoming less expensive and natural diamonds historically increasing in value, your lab-grown diamond will be less valuable than a natural diamond of comparable grade, even before factoring in the difference in resale value.
Lab-Grown Diamonds vs. Natural Diamonds FAQs
How long do lab-grown diamonds last?
Both natural diamonds and lab-grown diamonds have identical lifespans. Since they are chemically the same, they are a timeless choice for jewelry because they can keep their strength and beauty for many lifetimes with the proper maintenance.
Is a diamond grown in a lab considered a “synthetic” diamond?
No, it is not. The Federal Trade Commission updated its jewelry marketing guidelines and eliminated the term “natural” from the diamond’s description. The term “synthetic” is inaccurate because lab-grown diamonds, just like natural diamonds, are formed entirely of carbon. Since lab-grown and naturally occurring diamonds have the same chemical makeup, they are both considered real diamonds.
Is there a visual difference between a lab-grown diamond and a natural diamond?
Most people cannot tell the difference between lab-grown and natural diamonds. Even experienced jewelers cannot distinguish the two without using a diamond loupe and looking for a tiny laser inscription indicating the diamond is lab-created.
Which Diamond Should You Buy? The Team at Anye Designs is Here to Help
When choosing between a natural diamond and a lab-grown one, it all comes down to what is most important to you. Lab-created diamonds provide an inexpensive alternative with the same brightness and appearance as a natural diamond if cost and beauty are your top priorities. A natural diamond might be a better option for those in search of a more unique piece with long-term value because of its history of being naturally produced.
If ethical and environmental concerns affect your decision, a lab-grown diamond provides a more transparent supply chain. However, its production still uses a lot of energy. Ultimately, the decision that matches your priorities and values is the right one, and there is no right or wrong answer.
At Anye Designs, we specialize in creating timeless diamond wedding and engagement rings. Our made-to-order unique designs are crafted from the best raw materials, showcasing our commitment to detail and quality craftsmanship. We are here to help you find the perfect piece to represent your commitment and lasting love.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment or visit our showroom in Los Angeles.