Lab-Grown Vs Natural Diamonds: What's the Difference?

In recent years, lab-grown diamonds have become a more popular alternative to natural diamonds when it comes to creating an engagement ring. While lab-grown diamonds are becoming more normalized, one of the most common questions we hear is:

"What's the difference between a lab-grown diamond and a natural diamond - and which one should I choose?"

Are Lab-Grown Diamonds and Natural Diamonds the Same?

Technically, yes. Lab-grown diamonds have the same chemical, physical and visual properties as natural diamonds; the only difference is their origin.

• Natural Diamond: mined from the earth
• Lab Grown Diamonds: created in a lab

To the naked eye, they look identical, and if people tell you otherwise, they're lying. Even professional gemologists are unable to tell the difference without specialized equipment.

However, there are still a few key differences to consider before deciding which diamond is right for you. 

What is a Lab-Grown Diamond?

A lab-grown diamond (also known as lab-created, or man-made) is a real carbon crystalized under high temperature and pressure, similarly to how a natural diamond forms in nature. Lab diamonds are graded by the same 4 Cs: cut, colour, clarity and carat weight, and often come from the same reliable grading labs like GIA or IGI.

Learn More About the 4 Cs of Diamonds to understand how diamonds are evaluated.

While they are chemically identical to natural diamonds, here are a few differences to pay attention to:

Lab-Grown Diamonds:

• Man-made in a lab using advanced technology
• Contain no nitrogen (a natural inclusion found in mined diamonds)
• Can be produced in multiples - meaning no one diamond is unique
• Typically have little to no resale value compared to natural diamonds
• Cost 40-70% less than natural diamonds of the same qualities

Why Some People Still Choose Natural Diamonds

If lab-created diamonds look identical and cost less, you might wonder, why do people still buy natural diamonds?

For many, it comes down to sentiment, symbolism and rarity.

Natural Diamonds

• Are unique - no two are ever the same
• Hold long-term value and rarity due to their limited natural supply
• Often retains some resale value
• Carry a sense of heritage, timelessness and prestige

What makes a natural diamond special is in its story. It's one of a kind, just like your relationship.

So, Which Diamond Should You Choose?

There's no right or wrong choice when it comes to choosing your diamond. It all depends on your values, lifestyle and budget. 

• If you value sustainability, affordability, and size for budget, a lab-grown diamond is an incredible option.

• If you prefer natural rarity, heritage, and long-term value, a natural diamond might feel more meaningful to you.

Whichever you choose, your engagement ring should make you smile every time you look at it.

If you’re still deciding, read our guide on 7 Things You Should Know Before Buying an Engagement Ring — it’ll help you understand budgeting, styles, and design options before you shop.

Create Your Dream Diamond Ring

At Dainty Diamond, our family has been creating and customizing engagement rings for over 30 years. We work with trusted, ethical diamond suppliers to bring you both natural and lab-grown diamonds of exceptional quality.

Whether you’re ready to design your dream ring or just starting to explore, we’ll guide you through every step of the process.

Book a Free Consultation to get started today.