Natural & Lab Grown Diamonds: A Guide

Explaining natural and lab grown diamonds, and helping you discover the best fit for you.
Platinum Blossom Engagement Ring by London jewellery designer, Georgina Yvonne. Nature inspired design with round brilliant cut diamond centre

Diamonds

Natural Diamonds

Natural diamonds are formed over 1–3 billion years under intense heat and pressure within the Earth’s mantle. Volcanic activity brings them closer to the surface, where they are mined.
Each natural diamond is unique, making them a prized possession.
Natural diamonds typically hold higher resale value due to their rarity and legacy.
Platinum Berry Engagement Ring with pear diamond centre and diamond accent stones, nature inspired design by London jewellery designer, Georgina Yvonne

Diamonds

Lab Grown Diamonds

Lab-grown diamonds are created using advanced technology that replicates the natural diamond formation process. There are two main methods: High Pressure-High Temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD).
Lab growns are generally considered more environmentally friendly than traditional mining.
Lab-grown diamonds are 20–40% less expensive than natural diamonds of comparable quality.
Platinum Daisy solitaire engagement ring by London jewellery designer, Georgina Yvonne. Nature inspired design with floral gallery and oval diamond centre stone

Diamonds

Are Lab Grown Diamonds Real Diamonds?

Yes! Lab-grown diamonds are chemically, physically, and optically identical to natural diamonds. Both types are made of crystallized carbon and share the same sparkle, brilliance, and hardness (10 on the Mohs scale). The key difference lies in their origin: natural diamonds are mined from the Earth, while lab-grown diamonds are made in a controlled environment.
Platinum Ivy hexagon diamond engagement ring by London jewellery designer, Georgina Yvonne. Twist band design and your choice of either lab grown or natural diamond

Diamonds

Advantages of Natural Diamonds

Natural diamonds have a rich history and are often seen as heirloom pieces.
No two natural diamonds are exactly alike, adding to their charm.
They generally hold better long-term value, making them an investment-worthy choice.

Diamonds

Advantages of Lab Grown Diamonds

Lab-grown diamonds offer the same brilliance at a fraction of the cost.
Lab diamonds can be tailored to specific shapes, sizes, and qualities.

Diamonds

Choosing Between Natural and Lab Grown Diamonds

If affordability is a priority, lab-grown diamonds offer significant savings without compromising on beauty or quality.
Lab-grown diamonds may appeal to those seeking an ethical and sustainable option.
If you prioritize rarity and potential resale value, natural diamonds may be the better choice.
Some buyers prefer natural diamonds for milestones like engagements due to their timeless legacy.