Natural vs Lab-Grown Diamonds

Let’s get one thing clear: this isn’t a competition. Natural diamonds aren’t inherently better than lab-grown diamonds, and vice versa. There are plenty of misconceptions floating around about both. In this post, I’m breaking down the key facts so you can make an informed decision—whether you’re looking to buy a diamond or simply want to learn more.

What Are Natural Diamonds?

How They Form

Natural diamonds are formed deep within the earth over millions of years. They’re created under extreme pressure and heat, and then mined from the earth through various extraction processes. The journey of a natural diamond is slow, but that rarity is part of what makes them so valuable.

Ethics & Sourcing

Not all natural diamonds are “blood diamonds” (diamonds mined in war zones, often under inhumane conditions). There are strict international regulations in place to ensure that conflict diamonds don’t enter the market, such as the Kimberley Process, which was established to prevent the trade of these unethical diamonds.

Supply & Availability

Natural diamonds are limited. Since the earth’s supply is finite and mining is a labor-intensive process, natural diamonds are not easily replenished. This limited availability contributes to their higher price and overall value.

How They’re Cut

Natural diamonds are cut with efficiency in mind. The goal is to maximize the yield from the rough stone while maintaining the diamond’s beauty. This means that natural diamonds may have slight imperfections, or inclusions, and small variations in their cut grades.

What Are Lab-Grown Diamonds?

How They're Created

Lab-grown diamonds are created using high-tech methods that replicate the conditions needed to form diamonds naturally. Two common techniques are Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) and High-Pressure High Temperature (HPHT). These methods create diamonds in a matter of days or weeks, rather than millions of years.

Energy & Environmental Impact

While some lab-grown diamond manufacturers use renewable energy sources for their operations, most are still tied to the power grid. So, while there’s potential for lab-grown diamonds to be more eco-friendly in the future, right now, they’re not entirely “green.” However, the creation of lab-grown diamonds generally has less of an environmental impact than mining natural diamonds.

Supply & Availability

Unlike natural diamonds, lab-grown diamonds can be produced on-demand in large quantities. There is no supply ceiling, meaning they are much more abundant. This availability is part of the reason lab-grown diamonds are less expensive than their natural counterparts.

How They’re Cut

Lab-grown diamonds are cut with less concern for maximizing yield. Since they can be made in bulk, manufacturers can afford to be more precise with cuts, often resulting in diamonds that are cut with fewer imperfections. This makes lab-grown diamonds more consistent in their quality and typically results in higher cut grades.

The Value Factor Price & Long-Term Investment

Natural diamonds have a more stable value, typically retaining or even increasing in value over time due to their rarity, even though their price can fluctuate based on demand and availability. Many people buy natural diamonds not only for their beauty but also as an investment. In contrast, lab-grown diamonds are more affordable because they can be produced in large quantities, and their price is likely to continue dropping as technology advances, making them an accessible option for many buyers. However, unlike natural diamonds, lab-grown diamonds don’t appreciate in value and are better viewed as a purchase for their beauty rather than a long-term investment.

Choosing the Right Diamond for You

At Víya, we craft beautiful rings with both natural and lab-grown diamonds. We always ensure our clients are fully informed about their options, and we believe the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference. We’re not here to “sell” you anything—we’re here to help bring your vision to life.

If you prefer natural diamonds, we’ll craft your piece with the finest stones. But if you choose lab-grown, we’ll source that for you with the same care and attention to detail. We’re here to create something beautiful that reflects your unique style.

As the world of diamonds continues to evolve, I believe clients will end up owning both types of jewelry. You might wear a family heirloom—such as a natural diamond piece—on special occasions and choose more affordable lab-grown pieces for everyday wear. It’s about being conscious and resourceful in your purchases.

One thing I’m sure of is how lab-grown diamonds are opening up new creative possibilities. At Víya, we’ve already started using lab-grown diamonds to experiment with new designs that we might not have explored otherwise. These diamonds allow us to push the boundaries of creativity without the constraints of natural diamonds’ higher cost or rarity. Check out our Barter Exchange to see some of these innovative creations in action.

Ultimately, the choice between natural and lab-grown diamonds comes down to personal preference, ethical considerations, and what you're looking for in terms of price, value, and design. Whether you’re after the rarity and investment potential of natural diamonds or the affordability and creative possibilities of lab-grown diamonds, both options have their place in the world of jewelry.

No matter what you choose, we can all agree on one thing: Do Diamonds Differently.
- Manav Vaghashiya

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