The discussion about natural diamonds versus laboratory grown diamonds can be a very contentious one - especially among jewellers! But there are a few key points that are important for you to know when you are deciding between natural or man-made diamonds when buying or commissioning a bespoke engagement ring.
Are natural diamonds and lab-grown diamonds the same?
They may look the same, but they are not the same. Natural diamonds are mined from the earth, they have been created by mother nature over millions of years. Laboratory diamonds are 'grown' in a lab or factory by humans, so they don't have the same history behind them but this process is a pretty incredible feat of technology.
Can you tell the difference between mined diamonds and man-made diamonds?
With the naked eye, no, you cannot tell the difference. There is a machine which can tell the difference though. If you go for a particularly large lab-grown diamond people are unlikely to assume it is natural though.
What is the price difference between natural diamonds and lab-grown diamonds?
Lab grown diamonds are far cheaper than mined diamonds, although the price of natural diamonds has been coming down recently too. If you want a large showstopper of a diamond and don't resonate with the origin story of a natural diamond then go with a lab.
Which is a better investment a natural diamond or a lab-grown diamond?
It may sound odd but diamonds in general are not a good investment. Often the metal in your jewellery is more valuable and holds it's value much longer than diamonds. The resale value of labs is lower, you will get more of your money back on a natural diamond but you will have spent more on it in the first place, so the loss could end up being more. No diamond should be bought as an investment unless it is incredibly rare - but who buys a sentimental engagement ring thinking about resale value anyway!
Why should I choose a natural diamond engagement ring?
If you think you or the person you are buying for will connect with the story behind the diamond then mined is a great choice. The beauty that mother nature has given to us really is incredible. And with transparency and certification you can be sure your mined diamond has not come from a conflict zone or been mined under unsafe conditions.
Why should I choose a lab-grown diamond?
If you want to buy or create a very large chunky diamond design, or if you are working to a tight budget then a made-made diamond is probably your best bet. You can get a lot of sparkle for your buck choosing lab-grown and although the creation of them can use a lot of our natural resources like water, you can be sure that the stone has not be created in unsafe conditions and has not left a scar on the landscape the way a mine can.
If you still have questions or want to chat about buying or commissioning a piece of jewellery please get in touch or fill our our bespoke form.
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