Which is better: Lab grown or Natural Diamond?

Choosing the perfect diamond for an engagement ring is a deeply personal decision, often influenced by factors like budget, values, and the story you want your ring to tell. One of the biggest questions facing couples today is whether to choose a natural diamond or a lab-grown one. So, is a lab-grown diamond better than a natural one? The answer depends on you.

Understanding Natural Diamonds

Natural diamonds have a story that stretches back millions, sometimes billions, of years. These gems form deep within the Earth's mantle under immense pressure and heat. Over time, they make their way closer to the surface through volcanic eruptions, where they are eventually mined. The result is a gemstone that has been shaped by the forces of nature over unimaginable lengths of time.

The rarity and ancient origin of natural diamonds are part of what makes them so cherished. When you choose a natural diamond, you’re choosing a piece of history—a gem that has witnessed the passage of aeons. There’s also the fact that it retains its value much more than lab grown diamonds do. 

The Science Behind Lab-Grown Diamonds

Lab-grown diamonds, by contrast, are the product of cutting-edge technology. Using methods like High Pressure-High Temperature (HPHT) or Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD), scientists can replicate the conditions under which natural diamonds form, but in a matter of weeks instead of millennia. The result is a diamond that, at a molecular level, is almost indistinguishable from its natural counterpart.

Both natural and lab-grown diamonds share the same crystal structure. This means they have nearly identical chemical, optical, and physical properties. To the naked eye, they are virtually identical—they both shine, sparkle, and dazzle with equal brilliance.

The Key Differences: Story and Sustainability

The main difference between natural and lab-grown diamonds lies in their origin stories. Natural diamonds come with the allure of being formed under the Earth’s crust over millions of years, each one unique due to its natural imperfections and history. Lab-grown diamonds, on the other hand, have a controlled environment during their creation, which means they are often more "perfect" and can even be produced in a variety of colours, some of which are rare or nearly impossible to find in nature.

Lab-grown diamonds are also gaining popularity due to their affordability. You can often get a larger or higher-quality diamond for the same price as a smaller natural diamond. This is particularly appealing for couples who want the biggest sparkle for their budget.

Another factor to consider is sustainability. Lab-grown diamonds are often marketed as a more environmentally friendly option, as their production requires fewer resources and generally has a smaller environmental footprint compared to the mining of natural diamonds. However, it's important to do thorough research on the specific practices of the companies you are considering, as the sustainability of lab-grown diamonds can vary.

Making the Right Choice for Your Engagement Ring

When it comes to choosing between a natural and a lab-grown diamond, the decision ultimately depends on what you value most. If you’re drawn to the ancient history and unique journey of a natural diamond, that may be the right choice for you. However, if you’re looking for a more affordable option with a potentially smaller environmental impact, a lab-grown diamond might be the perfect fit.

Whichever you choose, both options can offer stunning beauty and a meaningful symbol of your love story. And at Taels, we’re here to help you find the perfect ring that reflects your values, style, and budget.

References:

GIA - Simulants, Moissanite and Lab-Grown Diamonds

ABC News - Are lab-grown diamonds as sustainable as advertised?

IGI - Is Growing Diamonds a Sustainable Alternative to Diamond Mining?