Natural vs Lab Grown Diamonds: Reasons One Shines Brighter Than the Other (Full Comparison Guide)
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“Natural vs Lab Grown Diamonds” is one of the most talked-about topics in modern jewelry shopping, and for good reason. Diamonds remain a symbol of love, luxury, and timeless beauty, yet shoppers today have more choices than ever. Whether you're buying an engagement ring, a meaningful gift, or a keepsake to pass down, understanding the difference between natural and lab diamonds can make all the difference.
In this post, we'll break down everything you need to know in clear, simple terms, and introduce you to BESEEN Jewelry, a trusted name in natural diamonds, birthstones, and pearls.
Understanding Natural Diamonds
Geological Formation of Natural Diamonds
Natural diamonds are formed deep beneath the Earth’s surface under extreme pressure and heat. This process takes over 1–3 billion years, making each natural diamond a true geological miracle.
Why Natural Diamonds Are Highly Desired
Natural diamonds are prized for several reasons:
- Rarity: No two stones are ever identical.
- Authenticity: Many people appreciate their connection to nature.
- Symbolism: The long formation process represents endurance and everlasting love.
They’re not just stones, they’re stories written by the Earth.
What are Lab Grown Diamonds?
Lab-grown diamonds are diamonds that are created in a laboratory using high-pressure, high-temperature (HPHT) or chemical vapor deposition (CVD) methods, which mimic the natural processes that form diamonds deep within the Earth. These diamonds are made from carbon, just like natural diamonds, and are chemically, physically, and optically identical to mined diamonds.
The key difference is that lab-grown diamonds are produced in weeks instead of millions of years, and they offer an ethical and more environmentally friendly alternative to mined diamonds.
How Lab Grown Diamonds Are Created (CVD & HPHT)
Lab diamonds are produced using advanced technologies:
- CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition) grows a diamond layer by layer.
- HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature) mimics the Earth's natural creation process.
Are Lab Diamonds “Real” Diamonds?
Yes, chemically and visually, they're identical. They have the same brilliance, fire, and durability. The difference lies mainly in origin, rarity, long-term value, and emotional significance.
Natural vs Lab Grown Diamonds: Key Differences
1. Price Differences
Lab grown diamonds generally cost 40–70% less than natural diamonds because they are produced in controlled settings.
2. Rarity & Long-Term Value
- Natural diamonds retain value due to rarity.
- Lab diamonds depreciate quickly since more can be produced anytime.
3. Environmental Impact
Natural diamond mining has an environmental footprint, although many mines follow strict ethical standards.
Lab diamonds are marketed as eco-friendly, but they still require high energy consumption.
4. Emotional & Symbolic Value
Many buyers prefer natural diamonds because they feel more organic and meaningful, especially for engagements, anniversaries, and heirlooms.
5. Physical & Visual Differences
To the naked eye, both appear the same. Only specialized equipment can identify the origin.
Natural vs Lab Grown Diamonds: Comparison Table
| Parameter | Natural Diamond | Lab-Grown Diamond |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Formed naturally deep within the Earth’s mantle over billions of years | Created in laboratories using advanced technology (HPHT or CVD) |
| Formation Time | 1 to 3 billion years | A few weeks to a few months |
| Chemical Composition | Pure carbon (C) in a crystalline structure | Pure carbon (C) in a crystalline structure |
| Physical Properties | Same as lab-grown (10 on Mohs scale, high refractive index) | Same as natural—identical hardness, brilliance, and sparkle |
| Optical Properties | Natural inclusions and growth patterns | May have metallic inclusions (HPHT) or layered growth lines (CVD) |
| Appearance | Can have unique, irregular inclusions | Generally cleaner; fewer inclusions but may have metallic traces |
| Methods of Formation | Geological pressure & heat | HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature) or CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition) |
| Certification | Certified by GIA, IGI, AGS, etc. | Certified by same labs but labeled as “Lab-Grown” or “Man-Made” |
| Price | Expensive; value influenced by rarity | 60–80% cheaper than natural diamonds of same quality |
| Resale Value | High and stable; appreciates in premium stones | Lower resale value; depreciation common |
| Environmental Impact | Large carbon footprint; mining impacts ecosystems | Lower environmental impact; more sustainable |
| Ethical Concerns | Potential links to conflict mining (but regulated now) | Usually conflict-free and ethically sourced |
| Carbon Footprint | High (mining, transport, processing) | Lower, though depends on energy source used in production |
| Availability | Limited by nature | Unlimited; can be mass produced |
| Rarity | Extremely rare | Not rare; can be replicated anytime |
| Durability | Very durable; lasts forever | Same durability and lifespan as natural diamonds |
| Detectability | Requires advanced equipment for verification | Can be identified using spectroscopy or lab instruments |
| Market Perception | Considered traditional, luxury, and prestigious | Modern, budget-friendly, and eco-conscious option |
| Investment Value | Good investment especially for rare stones | Poor investment; value decreases over time |
| Color Range | Natural fancy colors are extremely rare and expensive | Fancy colors are easily created and affordable |
| Clarity | Unique natural inclusions; more variability | Consistently high clarity due to controlled environment |
| Use in Jewelry | Widely used in luxury & high-end jewelry | Increasingly used in budget-friendly to mid-range jewelry |
| Uniqueness | One-of-a-kind due to natural formation | Can be replicated; less uniqueness |
| Lifetime Guarantee | Naturally stable forever | same as natural; no difference |
| Magnetic Properties | Non-magnetic | HPHT diamonds may show slight magnetism due to metallic inclusions |
| Cost of Production | Very high (mining, labor, energy) | Lower (lab setup and controlled growth) |
| Transparency | May not always be traceable to origin | Fully traceable as production is known |
Why Many Buyers Still Choose Natural Diamonds
Legacy Jewelry & Investment Value
Natural diamonds are perfect for:
- Engagement rings
- Family heirlooms
- Special milestone gifts
Because they hold sentimental and market value, natural diamonds become treasured keepsakes passed through generations.
BESEEN Jewelry: A Trusted Source for Natural Diamonds, Birthstones & Pearls
If you value elegance, craftsmanship, and authenticity, BESEEN Jewelry offers a stunning selection of premium pieces designed to shine across generations.
Why BESEEN Natural Diamond Jewelry Stands Out
- Curated premium natural diamonds
- Exceptional brilliance and clarity
- Expert craftsmanship in every setting
- Modern and classic designs for every style
BESEEN Birthstone Collection
Birthstones make deeply personal, meaningful gifts. BESEEN offers:
- Customizable birthstone rings
- Birthstone pendants
- Elegant earrings for all twelve stones
These pieces celebrate identity, personality, and life's special moments.
BESEEN Pearl Masterpieces
Pearls are the epitome of timeless elegance. BESEEN’s pearl jewelry includes:
- Classic pearl necklaces
- Modern pearl earrings
- Luxe bridal pearl pieces
Crafted with meticulous attention, perfect for everyday sophistication or grand occasions.
How to Choose Between Natural and Lab Grown Diamonds
Factors to Consider
- Budget: Lab diamonds offer affordability.
- Symbolism: Natural diamonds hold deeper emotional value.
- Purpose: For investment or heirlooms, choose natural.
- Ethics: Both options have responsible sources available.
- Design preference: BESEEN offers stunning designs across categories.
Conclusion
Understanding Natural vs Lab Grown Diamonds helps you make the best choice for your style, budget, and values. If you’re looking for timeless beauty, heirloom-quality craftsmanship, and jewelry that carries deep meaning, BESEEN Jewelry offers unmatched natural diamonds, vibrant birthstones, and elegant pearls designed to shine for a lifetime.
FAQs
1. Are lab grown diamonds real or fake?
They are real diamonds with the same chemical composition as natural ones.
2. Do lab diamonds test as real on a diamond tester?
Yes, they pass standard diamond testers.
3. Which is better for investment, natural or lab grown?
Natural diamonds retain value; lab grown diamonds typically do not.
4. Can you tell the difference with the naked eye?
No, only advanced lab equipment can distinguish origin.
5. Are natural diamonds worth the price?
Yes, due to rarity, value retention, and emotional significance.
6. Is BESEEN Jewelry trustworthy for natural diamonds?
Absolutely. BESEEN is known for premium natural diamonds, high craftsmanship standards, and unique gemstone collections.