In recent years, the craze for diamonds among individuals in the market has soared. Thanks to the latest technology that has introduced the concept of lab-grown diamonds. It is an exclusively better alternative than the mined ones. Well, what’s the difference between these lab grown vs natural diamonds? You might be wondering, right? So here’s the full stop for your search cause; in this blog, I have given a detailed explanation of the difference between lab grown diamonds vs natural diamonds. Read the blog till the end to know more.
Well, the answer is as simple as the process. Natural diamonds are formed below the earth’s surface under pressure and heat over billions of years. Over time, volcanic eruptions and activity bring them closer to the surface where the diamonds are mined. These natural diamonds are shaped by geological processes, giving them an irregular pattern and shape. Natural diamonds are known for their rarity and the time they take to form.
On the other hand, the lab-grown diamonds are the ones which are produced in the laboratories using advanced technology. These diamonds are the same as natural diamonds, and the materials used while producing artificial diamonds are the same as natural diamonds. The structure and the matter used in the lab-grown diamonds are the same as those used in natural methods, which are gradually produced within a matter of a few weeks.
Despite having similar appearances, these diamonds do have or possess certain differences.
Natural diamonds have been formed deep within the earth’s surface under pressure and heat over billions of years. However, they emerge on the top surfaces because of several volcanic activities like eruptions, etc. This makes them a natural wonder of the geological process. The lab grown diamonds appeared after the laboratory setting using methods such as high pressure-high temperature (HPHT) or chemical vapour deposition (CVD). They do not require much time and can be formed within a matter of weeks.
When it comes to affordability, natural diamonds are costlier than lab-grown diamonds due to their rarity factor and also the higher demand for natural diamonds. On the contrary, these lab-grown diamonds are 30-60% more affordable than natural diamonds, and this is what attracts a majority of buyers to opt for this option. Hence, the affordability option goes well with lab grown diamonds.
The lab-grown diamonds can be easily produced within a short period, like within a few weeks or months. A big thanks to the latest technology which has made the production process easier. Natural diamonds take billions of years to form diamonds on Earth. This rarity factor is what has added to the lengthy formation and adds to their allure and rarity.
Natural diamonds are irregular and are known for their renowned imperfections, which are known as inclusions, which give them a charm and also an individuality of the gem. The lab-grown diamonds look similar to the natural diamond, but their perfection is what sets them apart. Despite this factor, they are identical and have the same physical properties, and even experts might require specialized equipment to find out if a diamond is natural or artificial.
Natural diamonds are not considered safe because the mining process causes habitat destruction, deforestation, and disruptions of the ecosystem. Mining also requires excessive energy and water use, which raises concerns about sustainability. Whereas lab-grown diamonds are a better alternative and an eco-friendly alternative. Instead, they require a higher amount of energy for the production of these diamonds under a lab-controlled environment, which might not always be available.
The resale value of natural diamonds is higher than that of artificial diamonds due to their rarity factor and the value they hold over time. But, artificial diamonds have lower resale value, are produced on a large scale, and are as rare as natural diamonds. Hence, its value depreciates over time, and the chances that people making investments in this are relatively low since they do not possess any resale value.
The lab grown diamonds are considered ethical as they do not interfere with any government regulations. And this is why most consumers turn to lab grown diamonds as a conflict-free choice. Natural diamonds are associated with a predicament, as it might evoke chaos due to the non eco-friendly activity like mining.
Another significant difference between natural and artificial diamonds is that natural diamonds have a tiny amount of nitrogen, whereas lab-grown diamonds do not have any nitrogen, and this is one of the signifiers that scientists use to differentiate between lab grown diamonds vs natural diamonds.
Yes, lab-grown diamonds are cheaper than natural diamonds.
Obviously, natural diamonds have higher resale value due to their rarity and higher demand.
No, without special instruments, even the experts might find it difficult to trace the differences between both due to their exact appearance.
To conclude, when we spot the difference between lab grown vs natural diamonds, it gives an idea of making a better choice by considering factors. However, both are the best choices, depending upon your preference over one another.
Thank you!
© 2025. All rights Reseved