Lab-Grown vs Natural Diamonds: What’s the Difference and Which Should You Choose?
Proposal season brings excitement, anticipation, and one big question: Should you choose a lab-grown or natural diamond? Both are real diamonds, both offer incredible beauty, and both sparkle with the brilliance engagement rings are known for. But their origins, rarity, long-term value, and emotional meaning differ in meaningful ways.
This guide breaks down everything U.S. luxury shoppers need to know so you can purchase with confidence, whether your priority is price, sustainability, symbolism, or future value. At By Bonnie, we help clients compare both options side-by-side so they can make an informed, intentional choice.
How Lab-Grown and Natural Diamonds Are Formed
Both lab-grown and natural diamonds share the same chemical composition (pure carbon) and the same crystal structure. The difference lies in their origin.
Natural Diamonds
Formed 1–3 billion years ago under intense heat and pressure deep within the earth’s mantle. Their rarity and ancient origin contribute to their emotional significance and long-term value.
Lab-Grown Diamonds
Created using advanced technology, either HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature) or CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition). These methods replicate natural growth conditions, producing real diamonds in controlled environments in weeks rather than millennia.
Both types are tested, graded, and certified just like any diamond. The key distinction is rarity versus accessibility.
For science-focused shoppers, GIA provides additional educational insight:Appearance & Durability: Do They Look the Same?
Yes. To the naked eye, lab-grown and natural diamonds look identical. Both share:
- The same brilliance
- The same hardness (10 on the Mohs scale)
- The same durability for lifelong wear
Cut quality, not origin, determines sparkle. This is why By Bonnie selects diamonds, both lab-grown and natural, using strict standards for fire, brightness, and proportionality.
Where they differ is in formation patterns sometimes observed under advanced grading tools, but this has no effect on beauty or performance.
Value, Rarity & Price Differences
Natural Diamonds
Because they are rare, finite, and billions of years old, natural diamonds hold stronger long-term market value. Their scarcity is what drives pricing and emotional significance.
Lab-Grown Diamonds
Lab-grown diamonds typically cost 50-70% less than natural diamonds of the same carat weight and clarity. This allows buyers to maximize size or quality at a more accessible price point. However, their resale value is significantly lower because they are not rare and production continues to improve, increasing supply.
Choosing between the two comes down to your priorities: emotional symbolism versus budget efficiency.
Emotional Significance: A Personal Decision
Some clients love natural diamonds for their ancient story and rarity. Others choose lab-grown diamonds because they appreciate the modern technology, sustainability narratives, or ability to purchase a larger stone at a lower price.
Neither choice is “better.” The best diamond is the one that aligns with your values, the moment you’re celebrating, and how you imagine wearing your ring every day.
At By Bonnie, we help you explore both options through curated selections
By Bonnie’s Diamond Selection Standards
No matter the diamond’s origin, we evaluate based on:
- Precision cut and light performance
- Absence of tint or undesirable fluorescence
- Symmetry and polish
- Architectural setting compatibility
- Overall beauty and emotional resonance
Whether lab-grown or natural, every BBJ diamond is chosen for brilliance, elegance, and heirloom potential.
Which One Should You Choose?
Here’s a quick guide based on priorities:
Choose a Lab-Grown Diamond if:
- You want a larger carat size for your budget
- You like the idea of modern technology and accessibility
- Resale value is not a major concern
Choose a Natural Diamond if:
- You value rarity, symbolism, and long-term significance
- You prefer stronger resale value
- You want a timeless heirloom with geological history
Both choices can be exceptional when sourced thoughtfully. Our consultations help you compare sparkle, proportions, and beauty side-by-side to find your perfect match.
Book a Consultation to Compare Diamonds in Person
Seeing diamonds in person, lab-grown or natural, provides clarity no article can match. Our one-on-one consultations walk you through beauty, value, and long-term considerations customized to your priorities.
Explore ready-to-ship rings or book your consultation here
Frequently Asked Questions
Both natural and lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds, but the right choice depends on your priorities. Natural diamonds offer rarity and long-term value, while lab-grown diamonds provide larger sizes at more accessible prices. Each has its own benefits—your lifestyle, symbolism preferences, and budget will guide the decision.
Yes. Both share the same brilliance, hardness, and durability. Differences can only be detected with advanced laboratory equipment. Cut quality affects sparkle far more than origin, which is why both types can be stunning when thoughtfully curated.
Natural diamonds generally hold stronger resale value due to their rarity and finite supply. Lab-grown diamonds are more affordable upfront but depreciate more because their supply continues to increase. The right choice depends on your long-term goals and emotional priorities.
Many lab-grown diamonds have a lower environmental impact than traditional mining, though energy usage varies by manufacturer. Clients who value innovation or ethically influenced options often appreciate lab-grown stones.
We apply the same strict standards to both: exceptional cut quality, balanced proportions, minimal tint, and overall beauty. Whether natural or lab-grown, our curation process ensures diamonds that maximize brilliance and elegance.