Lab Grown Diamond Rings vs Natural Diamond Rings
When considering an engagement ring, many couples compare natural diamond rings and laboratory grown diamond rings (also known as lab grown diamond rings or synthetic diamond rings) when creating their wishlist. What’s the difference? Lab grown diamonds are created in controlled factory environments, while natural diamonds form over the course of billions of years deep within the Earth. While lab grown diamond rings may look similar to natural diamond rings, they are not the same. Lab grown diamonds and natural diamonds differ in terms of rarity, value, and emotional significance.
Learn more about the differences between lab grown diamond rings and natural diamond rings below.
What Are Natural Diamond Rings?
A natural diamond engagement ring features a diamond that was formed deep within the Earth’s mantle over billions of years under intense heat and pressure. Natural diamonds (sometimes mislabeled mined diamonds) are incredibly rare to find in nature, and no two are exactly alike. Their value also tends to increase over time, making them a lasting investment.
Beyond being miracles of nature, natural diamonds carry deep cultural significance and have been woven into traditions around the world. From royal engagements to heirloom jewelry passed down through generations, natural diamonds have long represented everlasting love and commitment. The history of diamond rings dates back to 1477, when Archduke Maximilian of Austria presented the first recorded diamond engagement ring to Mary of Burgundy, setting a tradition that has endured for generations.
Their enduring beauty and scarcity make them a timeless choice for those seeking an engagement ring that not only sparkles today but will also stand the test of time.
What Are Lab Grown Diamond Rings?
A lab-grown diamond ring features a diamond that is created in a controlled factory setting rather than forming naturally over billions of years beneath the Earth’s surface. These diamonds are produced using advanced techniques such as High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) or Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD)—both designed to replicate the natural diamond-growing process. While lab-grown diamonds have the same chemical and physical properties as natural diamonds, they are not the same product.
Although lab-grown and natural diamonds may look alike, diamond testers and advanced detection methods can easily distinguish between them. Lab-grown diamonds also lack the rarity, history, and deep emotional significance that come with a natural diamond that has taken millions of years to form. Additionally, unlike natural diamonds, lab-grown diamonds do not retain or appreciate in value over time, making them less ideal for those seeking a lasting investment.
Environmental Impact of Natural Diamond Rings
The natural diamond industry plays a vital role in both environmental sustainability and global economic development. Unlike other forms of resource extraction, natural diamond recovery does not rely on toxic chemicals—diamonds can be easily separated from their host rock, minimizing environmental impact. Once mining operations conclude, the leftover rock is often repurposed to help restore the land to its natural state, ensuring responsible land management.
Beyond their brilliance, natural diamonds support the livelihoods of 10 million people worldwide, particularly in regions where diamond mining is a cornerstone of the economy. Through ethical sourcing initiatives, sustainable mining practices, and community development programs, the industry provides long-term benefits that extend far beyond jewelry. Many diamond mining companies actively invest in education, healthcare, and conservation efforts, helping to create lasting positive change in local communities.
Environmental Impact of Lab Grown Diamond Rings
While lab grown diamond rings are often marketed as an environmentally friendly choice, their production process still has significant ecological impacts. These diamonds are created using high-energy processes such as High-Pressure High-Temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD), both of which require substantial amounts of electricity to recreate the extreme heat and pressure found within the Earth. Both processes are often powered by fossil fuels and require large amounts of water to cool down the reactors.
In fact, around 60% of lab grown diamonds are manufactured in China and India, countries that rely heavily on fossil fuels. The carbon footprint of lab grown diamonds can be significant, depending on where and how they are produced. While some manufacturers strive to use renewable energy sources, the reality is that the environmental benefits of lab grown diamonds are not as clear-cut as often presented.
Value of Natural Diamond Rings
Natural diamond engagement rings have long been recognized as valuable assets, appreciated for their rarity and enduring worth. Unlike lab grown diamonds, natural diamonds have a history of increasing in value over time. The value of a natural diamond is deeply rooted in its rarity as a finite, naturally occurring gemstone. This exclusivity has made natural diamonds a consistently valuable asset.
Over the past 35 years, natural diamonds have appreciated in price by approximately 3% annually on average, reinforcing their long-term worth. As a result, they serve as exceptional heirlooms, preserving their inherent value for generations. In contrast, lab grown diamonds, much like other manufactured products, can be reproduced indefinitely.
Most jewelers allow trade-ins for natural diamond engagement rings, especially if the diamond was purchased from their store. Trade-in programs typically offer credit toward a new purchase, often requiring the new diamond to be of higher value than the original. However, policies vary, and factors like the diamond’s condition, certification (e.g., GIA), and market demand can affect the trade-in value. Some high-end jewelers and national retailers offer lifetime upgrade programs, while smaller or independent jewelers may have more limited options. Always check the jeweler’s specific trade-in policy before purchasing.
Value of Lab Grown Diamond Rings
Lab grown diamond engagement rings can be marketed as an affordable alternative to natural diamonds, but their long-term value is less certain. Due to their ability to be mass-produced in laboratories, lab grown diamonds lack the rarity that makes natural diamonds so desirable. The market for lab grown diamonds is rapidly evolving, and with increasing production capabilities, prices are expected to continue declining over time.
Between 2016 and 2022, the market saw a dramatic decline in lab-grown diamond prices, with values dropping by more than 70% due to increased production and technological advancements.
Most jewelers do not offer trade-in or upgrade programs for lab created diamond rings due to their declining value. However, some retailers may provide limited buyback, exchange, or upgrade options for lab grown diamonds, particularly if they were originally purchased from them. It’s always best to check with the jeweler about their specific policies before making a purchase.
Ultimately, while both natural diamonds and lab grown diamonds are options, only a natural diamond carries the rarity, history, and deep emotional significance that has made it the ultimate symbol of love for centuries. Formed over billions of years, a natural diamond engagement ring is a timeless treasure that holds its value and can be passed down for generations. Choosing a natural diamond means selecting not just a stunning gemstone, but an heirloom that represents an enduring commitment
