Should you buy a natural or lab-grown diamond?
Neither is universally “better.”
Natural and lab-grown diamonds are both diamonds. The better choice depends on what you value most: natural rarity and geological origin, or the ability to maximize size and specifications for your budget.
At Lola Ade, we offer both because we don’t believe a jeweler should make that decision for you.
Are lab-grown diamonds real diamonds?
Yes.
Lab-grown diamonds have essentially the same chemical composition and crystal structure as natural diamonds. They are not the same material as cubic zirconia or moissanite.
The primary difference is origin.
Natural diamonds formed deep within the Earth over immense geological periods. Lab-grown diamonds are created in controlled laboratory environments using technology that recreates conditions necessary for diamond crystal growth.
Why choose a natural diamond?
A natural diamond may appeal to someone who values:
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Geological rarity
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Natural origin
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The story of a stone formed within the Earth
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A traditionally scarce luxury material
For some clients, knowing that their diamond is a natural object formed long before any of us existed is part of its emotional significance.
Why choose a lab-grown diamond?
A lab-grown diamond may appeal to someone who prioritizes:
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A larger diamond within a particular budget
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Higher color or clarity specifications for the same budget
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A diamond created using modern technology
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Flexibility to spend more of the budget on the setting, wedding or other financial priorities
Lab-grown diamonds have fundamentally changed what many couples can achieve within their engagement-ring budgets.
Can you tell the difference by looking?
In most cases, you should not expect to identify origin simply by looking at a diamond with the naked eye.
Professional gemological testing and documentation are used to distinguish laboratory-grown from natural diamonds.
Which holds value better?
Natural and laboratory-grown diamonds should not be purchased with an expectation of guaranteed financial appreciation.
However, natural diamonds and lab-grown diamonds have different supply dynamics and secondary-market characteristics. Lab-grown diamond prices have changed substantially as production has expanded.
An engagement ring should primarily be selected because you love it and intend to wear it—not because someone promises it will function like a traditional financial investment.
So which should you buy?
Ask yourself:
Does natural origin and rarity matter deeply to me?
Consider natural.
Do I primarily want to maximize size or specifications within my budget?
Consider lab-grown.
Still unsure?
Compare both.
That’s exactly what we do during Lola Ade engagement-ring consultations. We believe an informed client makes the best decision.
Compare your options
Lola Ade offers responsibly sourced natural diamonds and lab-grown diamonds for custom engagement rings. Book a complimentary virtual consultation to compare options based on your design, priorities and budget.