Demystifying Lab vs. Natural Diamonds

Buying an engagement ring is one of the biggest purchases you’re likely to ever make. As lab-grown diamond engagement rings become more mainstream, there are lots of misconceptions about lab vs. natural diamonds, including what counts as a “real” diamond.  

At Valley Rose, we’re committed to creating ethical and sustainable engagement rings, which is why we use lab-grown diamonds, as they’re chemically, visually, and physically identical to natural diamonds and are made without the same environmental consequences. In this article, we’re decoding everything you need to know about lab vs. natural diamonds to help you choose your perfect engagement ring.

What’s the Real Difference Between Lab vs. Natural Diamonds?

Lab and natural diamonds are both considered to be real diamonds as they’re the same structurally, chemically, and optically. You can only tell the difference between a lab vs. natural diamond by testing it. The main difference between the two is how they’re created.  

Natural diamonds are formed over billions of years deep within the Earth, while lab-grown diamonds are created in controlled environments, replicating the conditions that create natural ones. Both types of diamonds are made of carbon, but lab diamonds are fully traceable, sustainable, and usually 20% more affordable.

The Environmental and Ethical Impact of Natural Diamonds

If you’re reading this article, you’re likely aware of the ethical and environmental concerns of buying natural diamonds. Traditional mining has contributed to climate change through air pollution, deforestation, soil erosion, and land degradation. Most diamond mining occurs in third-world countries, where individuals are subjected to poor working conditions and inadequate pay, often with children being forced to work from an early age. 

While most diamonds are now considered to be ‘conflict-free’, traceability and transparency can be a problem. By comparison, lab diamonds don’t have any of these ethical or environmental problems as they’re made without any human exploitation and produce lower carbon emissions. Our carbon capture lab diamonds even help to combat climate change by turning greenhouse gases into gemstones.

Conscious Luxury: Why Lab Diamonds Are Redefining Luxury

While lab diamonds might seem like a trend that’s popped out of the blue, they’ve been around for longer than you think. The recent popularity of lab diamonds can be traced back to the growth of conscious luxury, with Gen Z and Millennials increasingly choosing to buy products from eco-conscious brands.

Lab diamonds are also helping to redefine luxury as their more attainable price point makes it easier for couples to invest in a custom engagement ring or a larger stone. The beauty of ethical luxury is that you’ll feel more emotionally and financially happy with your choice.

Make a Conscious Choice with a Lab Diamond Engagement Ring by Valley Rose

Your engagement ring is a part of your love story and a reflection of who you are. If you care about the environment and want to invest in conscious luxury for your modern heirloom, there’s no better choice than a lab diamond. Explore our collection of lab-grown diamond engagement rings or book a virtual consultation to learn more about our available gemstones.