What’s The Difference Between Lab-Grown Diamonds and Natural Diamonds?

We know that diamonds are definitely a girl’s best friend - but do lab-grown diamonds have the same appeal? To the naked eye, it is nearly impossible to tell the difference between the two. Natural diamonds have a history of being rare, strong, and valuable, but lab-grown diamonds are taking the jewelry industry by storm by providing a more affordable alternative. Are you curious as to which route to take? Let’s dive into the main characteristics of natural and lab-grown diamonds.

14K Yellow Gold French-Set Full Eternity 2mm in Natural ($1,749) or Lab-Grown ($1,149)

Natural Diamonds

We all want to sparkle on our special day and diamonds are the number one option when it comes to achieving that look. Natural diamonds are prized for their rarity and take billions of years to be created. Diamonds are formed about 100 miles beneath the earth’s surface under high temperature and pressure. They are then mined from the earth and placed into fine jewelry, such as engagement rings and wedding bands. Natural diamonds are finite and hold their value over time, making the resale value quite high. Natural diamonds are 100% organic and are chemically made up of single element carbon which makes them very strong and hard. 

Lab-Grown Diamonds

Lab-grown diamonds are cultured, also known as man made. These diamonds are made in a laboratory by replicating the environment in which natural diamonds develop. They are then pressed into a diamond shape and hold the same chemical makeup of a natural diamond. Lab-grown diamonds are significantly less expensive than a natural diamond, making lab-grown a great option if you are working under a tight budget but still want some bling. You can also buy a larger stone for the price you might pay for a smaller natural diamond. Lab-grown and natural diamonds have the same physical and chemical properties, resulting in a nearly identical look for a fraction of the price!

Which diamond is right for me?

There is no right or wrong option when selecting a diamond. Both Natural and Lab-Grown Diamonds offer great value and are graded using the same 4 Cs: Color, Cut, Clarity and Carat.

If you are looking for a diamond as rare as your love and that has high resale value, a natural diamond might be the right choice for you. If you’re looking for a larger stone for a fraction of the price, a lab grown diamond might be the way to go. Either way, you’re sure to have a solid, gorgeous piece that will last a lifetime.
 

14K White Gold French-Set Rounded Contour in Natural ($1,399) or Lab-Grown ($1,049)
 14K Yellow Gold French-Set Pointed Contour in Natural ($1,899) or Lab-Grown ($1,299)

The Hitched Diamond Collection

At Hitched, we offer a streamlined collection of diamond options. For each diamond style, you can select from either natural or lab grown diamonds and each ring is made to order. Now that you’ve learned all about the difference between natural and lab-grown diamonds, you’re sure to find the perfect item for your special day. No matter what you choose, you can purchase confidently knowing all of Hitched’s diamonds are ethically and sustainably sourced. Additionally, each diamond ring is made using 100% recycled precious metals!

Still Torn On Natural or Lab-Grown Diamonds?

Are you local to Chicago, Philadelphia, or Washington DC? Come visit a showroom and see our entire collection in person and talk to a ring specialist all about our metals, diamonds and more! 

Not local to our showroom? No problem! You can now try on our women’s collection at home with our brand new home try-on kit for women. Consisting of both plain metal rings and diamond bands, you’re sure to find a wedding band that suits you perfectly. Try them on at home for 5 days - and you only pay for shipping! Order your Women’s Home Try-On Kit here.