Lab-Grown Diamonds vs. Natural Diamonds

Shopping for an engagement ring is exhilarating, and between the variety of stones, shapes, and styles, you have many choices to make. For those interested in a stunning diamond ring, you now have more options than ever with the growing popularity of lab-grown diamonds. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) states that “laboratory-grown diamonds have the same crystal structure [as mined diamonds], consisting of tightly bonded carbon atoms.” The difference between mined and lab-grown diamonds isn’t in how they look but in their source. 

In this article, we’ll compare and contrast lab-grown and natural diamonds to help you decide and get you one step closer to getting engaged. 

Beyond the Sparkle: The Symbolism of Diamonds

Our ancestors spent millennia learning the fine art of jewelry making. In the 16th century, they refined diamond faceting techniques and mastered crafting diamond engagement rings shortly after. Over time, diamond jewelry became a meaningful investment and a representation of commitment for partners worldwide. 

A diamond engagement ring doesn’t just symbolize your love; it connects you to a long history of beautiful love stories. Just as diamonds are known for their strength and durability, your love becomes part of a timeless tradition of devotion. 

The Diamond Debate: Lab-Grown vs. Natural

Choosing between lab-grown or natural diamonds comes down to your and your partner's preference. Before we start, it's important to know that both lab-grown and natural diamonds are real diamonds. Phrases like diamond simulants and synthetic diamonds refer to stones like cubic zirconia and other diamond look-alikes. Lab-made and natural diamonds are actual diamonds comprising the same materials and evaluated using the same diamond grading system. Whether you choose lab-grown or natural, both offer the brilliance and beauty diamond lovers seek, giving you two equally stunning options based on your preferences and values.

Now, let’s explore the key differences and similarities in depth to help inform your decision.  

How They're Formed

Natural diamonds begin forming deep within the Earth’s crust, where intense heat and pressure grow diamond crystals. The diamonds we see at the Earth’s surface were brought up by powerful, deep-seated volcanic eruptions called Kimberlite eruptions. The long process of deep-seated formation followed by the rapid rise via eruption locks the carbon atoms into place, leaving us with beautiful diamonds. This extensive process imbues natural diamonds with a sense of tradition. They’re a beautiful way to represent your love story.

In contrast, lab-grown diamonds are created in a controlled setting, using either Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) or High-Pressure High-Temperature (HPHT) processes. In the CVD method, a diamond seed is placed in a vacuum chamber with gases and high temperatures, where carbon molecules bond and grow the diamond layer by layer. The HPHT process mimics natural conditions by using intense pressure and heat to form the diamond. Both lab-grown and natural diamonds are chemically identical, consisting of pure carbon, and require cutting and refining.

How They’re Priced

Natural diamonds are a little rarer, both physically and perceptually. There are only so many mined diamonds in existence; knowing this, people may place a higher emotional value on them. This means that natural diamonds are priced higher in the market. Remember, no stone has inherent value on its own. You purchase your diamond ring because it’s a symbol of your love, not because of resale value. 

Lab-grown diamonds are almost always more affordable than natural diamonds. The process of making them is efficient, and new lab-grown diamonds are in near-constant production. This allows couples of all budgets to enjoy a beautiful diamond.

How They’re Graded

Prestigious grading institutions such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and the International Gemological Institute (IGI) evaluate natural and lab-grown diamonds using the same exacting standards. Both types of diamonds are assessed using the exact same criteria for the 4Cs—cut, clarity, color, and carat weight—ensuring no difference in their grading. You can trust that all diamonds are assessed the same, allowing you to shop with confidence. 

What They’re Made Of

We’ve covered the identical carbon chemical composition of natural and lab-grown diamonds. This carbon makeup means that both types of diamonds are a 10 on the Mohs hardness scale. They can both be cut and polished to the same standards, meaning there’s no difference in appearance or quality between the two. Without specialized equipment, you won’t be able to tell the difference between a lab-grown and a natural diamond. As lab-grown technology improves, some of these tests are having a harder and harder time differentiating diamond types. 

Ethical Considerations: A Conscious Choice

One of the compelling reasons to choose lab-grown diamonds is the ethical considerations surrounding diamond mining. While lab-grown diamonds require significant energy to produce, they offer a more transparent and traceable supply chain, with production methods continuously improving. 

At Olive Ave Jewelry, we believe you deserve to know the origins of your diamond. That's why we are committed to offering only conflict-free diamonds. Whether you choose a natural or lab-grown stone, you can trust that it’s been sourced ethically and responsibly with Olive Ave Jewelry.

The Beauty of Choice: Your Personal Preference

Choosing a diamond is a highly personal and exciting decision. If you’re seeking an option that gets you more value for your budget, then a lab-grown diamond may be perfect for you. On the other hand, if you’re drawn to a stone with a rich, traditional history, a natural diamond may be the right choice. 

Whether you go with a natural or lab-created diamond, the expert designers at Olive Ave Jewelry are just a message or online consultation away. Every stone is one of a kind and can help you find the perfect diamond to represent your unique love story. At Olive Ave, we’re committed to empowering our customers to choose what is best for them. 

A Diamond for Every Love Story

Both lab-grown and natural diamonds share the same dazzling beauty, durability, and chemical composition, making them equally stunning options. The key distinction lies in their origin, and it's up to you to decide which stone calls you more: the traditional natural diamonds or the beautiful lab-grown diamonds. 

At Olive Ave Jewelry, we invite you to explore our exquisite collection of lab-grown and natural diamond engagement rings and wedding bands. Our commitment to providing a diverse selection ensures that every love story can find its perfect match, whether you seek a piece rich in tradition or one that reflects contemporary elegance. Olive Ave Jewelry is here to help you find a diamond as unique as your journey.