Lab Diamond - Making the Cut: What Type of Diamond Is Right for You?

The saying is true... Diamonds are a girl's best friend! In today’s world, the diamond market has become more diverse than ever. So, if you are looking to purchase the best diamond ring for you or your loved one, it can seem a little daunting to choose the right diamond.

Diamonds essentially can be split into two categories, natural or lab-made. In today’s day and age of the trends involving all-natural food, all-natural drinks, and products; the assumption you might make is that all-natural diamonds are inherently “better”. Though, this isn’t true! There are pros and cons on each side and lab-made diamonds have some great benefits that should not be overlooked! Keep reading below to figure out which diamond is right for you.

 Quality

Essentially the only difference between a natural diamond and a synthetic diamond is where they originate. In nature, diamonds are created as a result of billions of years of pressure and heat. These diamonds are unearthed and cut carefully into different shapes to make beautiful jewelry. 

With the advent of modern technology came lab-made diamonds. Essentially, labs that make diamonds were able to take those billion years of pressurization and heat, and using technology, simulate that same environment that creates diamonds - in much less time. Often, lab diamonds can be produced in just a matter of weeks! 

Since the process of creating the diamond is very similar in the lab as it is in nature, lab diamonds have virtually no different than natural diamonds. The FTC (Federal Trade Commission) even classifies lab diamonds as ‘real’ diamonds due to the similarity in mineral make-up between the two.

With this in mind, there is virtually no difference in quality. Lab diamonds and natural diamonds look identical - so much so, that only a professional with specialized tools would be able to tell the difference. Lab diamonds simulate natural diamonds so closely, that there is no difference in look or quality. Lab diamonds offer the same clarity, shine, and hardness as natural diamonds.

 Price

Price is always important - but especially when making a decision as big as buying a diamond ring! 

Today, lab-made diamonds are significantly less costly than natural diamonds. This is because natural diamonds take eons to be ready for harvesting, and eventually a ring, while diamonds made in a lab can be ready in just a matter of weeks. These diamonds have a much larger supply and therefore are less costly.

Given natural and synthetic diamonds mimic each other so closely in look and quality, there’s an obvious advantage in choosing lab-made just for the price alone! When the diamond is less costly, you may be able to splurge on other features of your ring, such as opting for a super unique nesting ring set or more intricate details on your band.

 Maybe, but most likely not. Lab diamonds and natural diamonds are so incredibly similar that some jewelers will classify a lab diamond as a real diamond. With professional and specialized equipment, a gemologist may be able to pick out small details within the diamond to tell if it was made in a lab. If you’re curious if your friends or family will point out your diamond is natural or not - the likelihood of that is virtually impossible!

 Yes! Lab diamonds are in essence the same exact thing as a natural diamond - so you can pick from the same variety of cuts and shapes. 

 A diamond ring, whether natural or not, is a priceless item that you will cherish for years to come. Most people would never imagine selling their precious diamond ring! However, if you do want to sell your ring for any reason, you absolutely can.

 As far as a return on investment, natural diamonds tend to hold their worth much longer than lab diamonds, just because there are fewer natural diamonds available. With a lab-made diamond, you can expect the same longevity and beauty, but not as high of a return on investment. 

On the other hand, lab-made diamonds may be perfect for someone who will put a lot of wear and tear on their ring, like a busy mom or someone who works often with their hands. They will be less expensive to fix or replace, should that need arrive.

 In conclusion, whether you will choose a lab-made VS a natural diamond is a very personal choice. Both diamond types offer the same beauty, hardness, sparkle, and longevity as a naturally made diamond. Lab-made diamonds also come at a fraction of the cost of a natural-made diamond, which may open up your budget more.

 Natural-made diamonds tend to have a better resale value as they are scarcer overall. Between the two, there are virtually no physical differences. To the naked eye, they are identical in clarity and shine. Both options offer decades of beauty and elegance - so the choice is all yours!