Is it better To Buy a Lab Created or Natural Diamond?

Lab diamonds are created artificially in a laboratory instead of naturally occurring and mined from the earth. A lab diamond looks and feels exactly like a mined diamond and they are available in a variety of shapes and sizes. When comparing lab diamonds and mined diamonds, it is impossible to tell the difference. Honestly. The source is the only difference.

A lab-grown diamond is created in a laboratory and can be produced in just a few weeks. The two have almost identical chemical structures. The US Federal Trade Commission, or FTC, classifies man-made diamonds as "real" because of their carbon-based chemical makeup. One slight difference, mined diamonds often contain a small amount of nitrogen, whereas lab diamonds do not.

A natural diamond is formed throughout billions of years by intense heat and pressure. The total number of natural diamonds, which are one carat or larger, that are recovered in a year, could only fill a five gallon container? The value of natural diamonds lies in their rarity and uniqueness as a natural gem. This rarity and limited supply make natural diamonds highly valuable. In fact, over the last 35 years, the value of natural diamonds has appreciated by about 3% annually on average. They are not just valuable but can also be passed down as an heirloom.

So, how can you distinguish between a lab diamond and a mined diamond? There is no discernible difference between the two. Even a professional gemologist will need specialized equipment to tell the difference. A professional can make out small differences in inclusions between mined and lab-grown diamonds with magnification. However there is a significant price difference between the two despite their similarity.

Contrary to a common misconception, lab diamonds are not produced as “perfect” diamonds. Each lab and mined diamond are unique and with that, they have diamond qualities all their own like unique color and clarity. You, as a consumer can tell the quality and difference by checking the diamond's certification. Diamond certification is a system to evaluate the quality of a diamond based on the 4Cs—carat, color, clarity, and cut. Diamond certification is also referred to as diamond grading. Jewelers must declare whether a diamond is a lab created or mined and it will be clearly stated on the diamond certification.

Only you can determine your priorities when selecting a diamond. Here are some considerations to think about.

When it is impossible to tell the difference between a lab-grown diamond and a mined diamond, which one should you choose?

Different buyers have different priorities, so it's difficult to answer this question for everyone. In most cases, lab diamonds and mined diamonds look the same to the naked eye. In the case of a lab-created diamond ring, it is almost certain that no one will be able to tell unless you tell them. A lab diamond will be more budget-friendly without sacrificing quality.

Some buyers perceive a mined diamond as more “real”, which is very a valid perception in the traditional sense. If it's important to you, regardless of the reason, make it a priority.

Only you can determine your priorities when selecting a diamond. I am please to offer a selection of diamonds for engagement rings that include both lab diamonds and natural diamonds, online and in real life. There is no wrong choice so go with the diamond that suits your priorities and budget.