Lab-Created Diamonds vs. Natural Diamonds: What's the Difference?
By: AD&G Editorial Team Reading time : 8 min
If you're looking for the perfect diamond for an engagement ring or custom jewelry, you might be wondering: is a natural diamond better than a lab-created one? Both look like real diamonds, but there are important differences to know before purchasing. In this article, we'll guide you through the process, providing all the technical, ethical, and value information you need.
What is a Lab-Created Diamond?
Lab-created diamonds , also known as lab-grown or synthetic diamonds, are chemically, physically, and optically identical to natural diamonds. They are produced in laboratories using advanced technologies such as:
- HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature)
- CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition)
The result is a real diamond, indistinguishable from a natural one except through specialized gemological analysis .
What is a Natural Diamond?
A natural diamond is formed in nature, underground, in a geological process that lasts billions of years . Every natural diamond is unique and unrepeatable , with imperfections or inclusions that testify to its history.
Differences between Natural and Lab-Created Diamonds
| Characteristic | Natural Diamond | Lab Created Diamond |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Natural formation | Growth in the laboratory |
| Training time | Billions of years | 6-12 weeks |
| Price | Higher | Up to 40% less |
| Visual appearance | Identical to lab-grown | Identical to natural |
| Environmental impact | Greater | Reduced (more sustainable) |
| Value over time | Traditionally stable | Still uncertain about the long term |
Price vs. Value: Which Is the Better Investment?
Natural diamonds tend to have a more stable market value over time and are often chosen for their rarity and heritage . Lab-created diamonds, on the other hand, offer a more affordable alternative without compromising visual quality.
If you're looking for an ethical, sustainable, and affordable diamond , lab-grown is a great option.
Sustainability and Ethics
Many choose lab-created diamonds for ethical reasons: no social impact related to mining, fewer emissions, and a controlled production cycle.
However, even natural diamonds can be certified as ethical , if they come from controlled mines and comply with standards such as the Kimberley Process .
Natural Diamonds: Why Choose Them?
Natural diamonds are still highly valued for the following reasons:
- Tradition and Prestige: Natural diamonds are associated with timeless elegance and enduring value.
- Unique Formation: The natural formation process gives each diamond its unique characteristics.
- Market Perception: Despite the increasing popularity of lab-created diamonds, natural diamonds continue to be considered the most prestigious choice, especially for special occasions such as wedding rings.
How to Choose with Atelier Diamanti in Rome
At Atelier Diamanti e Gioielli , we offer both GIA certified natural diamonds and IGI certified lab-created diamonds , guaranteeing:
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Personalized consultations with expert gemologists
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Custom design for rings, wedding bands and jewelry
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Ethics and transparency in every proposal
📍 Come visit us in Rome to choose the diamond that best suits your style, values, and budget.
If you need help choosing between lab-grown and natural diamonds, we're here for you! Give us a call, and our gemologists will be happy to assist you. You can contact us by phone at 331-3365979 or by email at laterierroma@gmail.com . Our live chat is available during business hours, Monday through Friday , 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.