Lab-Grown vs. Natural Diamonds: What Today’s Couples Need to Know

Diamonds are the crown jewel of the engagement ring industry, but lab-grown diamonds are giving couples the chance to buy a diamond engagement ring without the environmental impact. An engagement ring is one of the biggest purchases you’ll ever make, and there’s more to consider than just aesthetics. Ethics, traceability, and environmental impact are becoming central to the conversation around sustainable engagement rings, with couples wanting to buy a ring that reflects their values.

‘Conscious luxury’ is more than just a trend, but a movement that is changing how brands and couples approach engagement rings. Lab-grown diamonds are chemically and visually the same as natural diamonds, but more affordable, ethical, and eco-friendly. In this article, we’re spotlighting what you need to know about lab-grown vs. natural diamonds.

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

Lab-grown diamonds are chemically, physically, and optically identical to natural diamonds. It’s a common myth that lab-created diamonds are not “real” diamonds.

In reality, these diamonds are created within a lab setting using carbon high-pressure high-temperature (HPHT) and chemical vapor deposition (CVD), which recreates the process of crystallizing pure carbon within a controlled setting. This process allows a diamond to be created within just weeks or months, instead of the billions of years it takes for natural diamonds to form in the Earth’s mantle. 

The only differences between lab-grown vs. natural diamonds are their origins and their environmental impact. Diamond mining can result in deforestation, habitat destruction, water pollution, and excess waste, while there remain serious ethical concerns about labor exploitation within local communities.

Read more: Demystifying Lab vs. Natural Diamonds

Diamond Quality: How Lab-Grown and Natural Diamonds Compare

The 4Cs of diamond grading are some of the most important aspects to consider when buying a diamond, whether it’s lab-created or natural. Both types of diamonds are judged exactly the same for their cut, clarity, color, and carat. 

However, as creating lab-grown diamonds is easier than mining natural diamonds, they are usually more affordable, and the process results in diamonds that have better color consistency and clarity.

Ethics and Sustainability: Why Many Couples Are Choosing Lab-Grown

An engagement ring signifies the next chapter in your relationship, and modern couples want to choose a ring that reflects their values, as well as their personality. Research shows that half of Millennial and Gen Z couples are now choosing to buy lab-grown diamonds to ensure the traceability of their ring, while also being able to take advantage of a better per-carat value. 

Lab-grown diamonds are a great choice for a custom engagement ring, and any of our alternative engagement rings can be fitted with your choice of lab-created diamond and fairmined gold. 

Read more: Ethical Jewelry is More Than Just a Fashion Trend

Choose a Lab-Grown Diamond Engagement Ring With

FAQs About Lab-Grown vs Natural Diamonds

Are lab-grown diamonds ethical?

Lab-grown diamonds are an ethical alternative to natural diamonds as they’re created within a controlled environment with minimal environmental impact.

Do lab-grown diamonds sparkle the same?

Lab diamonds are chemically and visually identical to natural diamonds, meaning they have the same sparkle.

Which diamond is better for a custom engagement ring?

Most couples opt to use lab-grown diamonds for their custom engagement rings at Valley Rose.

How do I choose between lab-grown and natural diamonds?

If you’re on a budget or want to invest in a sustainable engagement ring, then a lab-grown diamond is your perfect option.

Propose with an Ethical Lab-Grown Diamond Engagement Ring

Every couple will have a different type of engagement ring in mind – and the same is true for diamonds. No two diamonds are the same, whether they occur naturally in the Earth’s core or if they’re made in a lab. An ethical lab-grown diamond will give you the same look and quality as a natural diamond without the environmental impact, making it the perfect way to honor your love and help play a role in protecting our planet. 

Every Valley Rose ring is made-to-order by our team of talented artisans, allowing you to select everything from your choice of gemstone to your preferred type of fairmined gold. Our rings are designed to be worn today and cherished forever as heirlooms that will stand the test of time. Get started by exploring lab-grown diamond engagement rings or by booking a virtual consultation to begin designing your modern heirloom.