We get it, diamonds are expensive!
But that doesn’t mean you have to empty your pockets to find the right choice. Lab-grown diamonds offer fair-level advantages like cheaper cost and nature-friendly.
But, Natural Diamonds have their own set of pros, and in this guide, we will delve into the key differences, benefits, and considerations for each and which one should you go for!
Here’s a quick summary
| Feature | Lab-Grown Diamonds | Natural Diamonds |
| Formation | Created in a lab within weeks to months using HPHT or CVD methods | Formed over billions of years deep within the Earth’s mantle |
| Environmental Impact | Generally more environmentally friendly; smaller carbon footprint | Mining can cause soil erosion, deforestation, and ecosystem disruption |
| Ethical Considerations | Conflict-free; involve fairer labor practices | Issues with conflict diamonds and labor exploitation, despite initiatives like the Kimberley Process |
| Cost | Typically 20-40% less expensive than natural diamonds | More expensive due to rarity and mining costs |
| Resale Value | Lower resale value due to abundance and evolving market perception | Higher resale value due to rarity and established market presence |
| Visual and Physical Properties | Identical to natural diamonds in terms of hardness, refractive index, and dispersion | Identical to lab-grown diamonds; unique inclusions formed naturally |
| Investment Value | Not typically considered a good investment | Often retain higher value and can be a better investment |
| Availability | More options in size and quality, often with fewer inclusions | Limited by natural occurrence; unique characteristics due to inclusions |
| Certification | Typically certified by IGI, which provides specific grades for all 4Cs | Often certified by GIA, ensuring authenticity and quality |
Let’s have a deep dive into the comparison
Understanding the Basics
What are Natural Diamonds?
Natural diamonds are formed over billions of years under intense heat and pressure deep within the Earth’s mantle. Each natural diamond is unique, with distinct inclusions and variations formed over time. They are mined through various methods, which can have significant environmental and ethical impacts.
What are Lab-Grown Diamonds?
Lab-grown diamonds, also known as synthetic or man-made diamonds, are created in a controlled environment using advanced technology. They have the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as natural diamonds, making them virtually indistinguishable to the naked eye. Lab-grown diamonds are produced using High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) or Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) methods.
Key Differences
Origin and Formation
- Natural Diamonds: Formed naturally over billions of years within the Earth’s mantle.
- Lab-Grown Diamonds: Created in a laboratory setting within weeks to months.
Environmental Impact
- Natural Diamonds: Mining can lead to soil erosion, deforestation, and ecosystem disruption. However, some companies are improving sustainable practices.
- Lab-Grown Diamonds: Generally more environmentally friendly, with a smaller carbon footprint and less disruption to ecosystems.
Ethical Considerations
- Natural Diamonds: The diamond industry has initiatives like the Kimberley Process to prevent conflict diamonds, but concerns about ethical sourcing persist.
- Lab-Grown Diamonds: Free from concerns about conflict diamonds and often involve fairer labor practices.
Pricing
- Natural Diamonds: More expensive due to their rarity and the costs associated with mining and distribution.
- Lab-Grown Diamonds: Typically 20-40% less expensive than natural diamonds of equivalent quality.
This price difference is primarily due to the controlled production process of lab-grown diamonds, which requires significantly less time and resources than the natural formation of diamonds over millions of years.
For example, a one-carat round lab-grown diamond might be priced around €1,230, while a similar natural diamond could cost approximately €5,955
Market and Value
- Natural Diamonds: Often retain higher resale value due to their rarity and established market presence.
- Lab-Grown Diamonds: Have lower resale value due to their abundance and evolving market perception.
The grown Diamond industry is evolving at a rapid pace.
Here’s the expected market size as per Statista in 6 years
Source: Staista.com, 2024
But why does everyone keep saying that Lab Grown Diamond Rings are the future?
Visual and Physical Properties
Both lab-grown and natural diamonds share identical physical, chemical, and optical properties. They exhibit the same hardness, refractive index, and dispersion, making them equally durable and brilliant. The main difference lies in their inclusions and origin.
Why Choose Lab-Grown Diamonds?
- Budget-Friendly: You can maximize your budget and get a larger or higher-quality diamond for the same price as a smaller natural diamond.
- Ethical Choice: Lab-grown diamonds are conflict-free and involve fairer labor practices.
- Environmental Impact: They have a smaller environmental footprint compared to mined diamonds.
- Availability: Lab-grown diamonds offer a wide range of options in terms of size and quality, often with fewer inclusions.
Explore our stunning collection of lab-grown diamond earrings in Antwerp, including lab diamond earrings and lab diamond stud earrings.
Why Choose Natural Diamonds?
- Historical Significance: Natural diamonds have a rich history and are often associated with luxury and prestige.
- Investment Value: They generally retain higher resale value and can be considered a better long-term investment.
- Unique Characteristics: Each natural diamond is unique, with distinct inclusions and characteristics that add to its charm.
For more insights, check out our blog on
How Labgrown Diamonds Signify Modern Love
Your Forevery Diamond Awaits!!
Both lab-grown and natural diamonds have their own set of advantages. Your choice depends on your budget, ethical considerations, and personal preferences. Lab-grown diamonds offer a modern, ethical, and budget-friendly alternative, while natural diamonds hold historical significance and potential investment value.
At Forevery.one, we specialize in providing the finest lab-grown certified diamonds.
Explore our collection of
FAQs
Where can I find the best lab-grown diamonds in Belgium?
Forever.one offers one of the best collections of Lab Grown Diamonds.
Are there any online retailers in Belgium that sell lab-grown diamonds?
Yes! Forever.one offers one of the best collections of Lab Grown Diamonds.
Are lab-grown diamonds real diamonds?
Yes, lab-grown diamonds have the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as natural diamonds. They are real diamonds.
How can I tell the difference between a lab-grown and a natural diamond?
To the naked eye, lab-grown and natural diamonds are indistinguishable. Even gemologists require specialized equipment to tell them apart.
Are lab-grown diamonds more affordable?
Yes, lab-grown diamonds are typically 20-40% less expensive than natural diamonds of equivalent quality.
Do lab-grown diamonds have resale value?
Lab-grown diamonds generally have lower resale value compared to natural diamonds due to their abundance and evolving market perception.
What certifications should I look for when buying lab-grown diamonds in Belgium?
You should look for GIA, HRD, and IGI certifications when buying lab-grown diamonds in Belgium. Forever.one offers certified lab-grown diamonds at the most reasonable price.
