Diamond guide
Natural vs lab-grown
They're both real diamonds. Here's how they're the same, how they differ, and what that means for price and value.
The same
What's identical
- Material
- Pure carbon in the same crystal structure
- Hardness
- Both are 10 on the Mohs scale, the hardest gem material
- Sparkle
- The same brilliance and fire when they're cut equally well
- Grading
- Graded on the same 4Cs
Different
What's different
- Origin
- Natural diamonds formed one to three billion years ago. Lab-grown diamonds grow in weeks
- Price
- Lab-grown diamonds usually cost far less for the same size and grade
- Value later
- Natural diamonds keep more of their value. Lab-grown resale value is low
- Identification
- Lab-grown stones are inscribed and reported as lab-grown
Choosing
How to choose
If rarity and long-term value matter most, choose natural. If you'd like a larger or finer stone for your budget, lab-grown makes sense. Both are set in the same rings, made in the same workshop.
Will a lab-grown diamond look fake?
No. It's a real diamond, and it looks exactly like a natural one of the same grade.
Can I see diamonds before I decide?
Yes. Book a time and our GIA Graduate Gemologist will set out stones in your shape, size, and budget so you can compare them under the loupe.
Do you check the stone against its report?
Every time. We check the measurements, the inclusions, and the laser inscription if there is one against the report before we show you a diamond.