Natural vs. Lab-Grown Diamonds — Craig Husar Fine Diamonds

04 Feb.,2024

 

FAQ:

Which type of diamond is more valuable?

Natural diamonds are rare, often two to three times the price of a lab-grown version, and rarity is why people choose natural diamonds. Why would there be a price difference if both types of diamonds are the same? The price difference results from the fact that much more resources are required to get natural diamonds to the market than lab-grown diamonds. No new significant diamond mines have been discovered or opened in the past 30 years.

The existing natural diamond mines will eventually close and cause severe shortages, causing many to speculate that diamond prices will soar.

What quality factors describe and classify diamonds?

The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) lists some of the factors that determine the quality and value:

Color: Colorless diamonds are the hardest to find and are therefore the most expensive.

Clarity: The clearer a diamond is, with fewer “inclusions", the more value it has. 

Cut: A well-cut diamond will be more valuable than one that is poorly cut or uncut. Expert diamond cutters know how to play around with angles and light to create a dazzling spectacle. 

Carat weight: Diamonds are weighed per carat. However, the same number of carats in a large diamond will be more valuable than the same number of carats divided into several smaller diamonds.

 Of course, there are many other factors that determine value, so consult with one of our trusted jewelry advisors to learn more.

What are alternatives to diamonds?

There are several alternatives to natural diamonds and lab-grown diamonds:

Moissanite: This is a gemstone made from silicon carbide. Even though moissanite looks like a diamond, it has a very different structure compared to the real diamond. It is also manufactured in a scientific laboratory.

Cubic zirconia: Can also be made in the lab to look precisely like a diamond. However, it doesn't have the strength of diamond. Over time, it will become prone to scratches and easily breakable. 

Quartz: This is one of the most common natural materials used to make diamond alternatives. Even though quartz will never have the sparkle and fire of diamond, a great artisan can make a diamond engagement ring with this stone that can look better than one made from low-quality diamond. However, over time, jewelry made from this type of stone will also lose its shine due to scratching.

Several other diamond alternatives like emerald, ruby, aquamarine, white zircon, and white sapphire are available.

Should I buy a lab-grown or earth-grown natural diamond for an engagement ring?

An engagement ring is a highly personal possession. It's important to remember that both lab-grown and mined diamonds are both diamonds. For this reason, it’s hard to say whether you should go with the mined or lab-grown diamond when buying one.

There are a few factors that can help you make the decision:

Price: Lab-created diamonds cost less than natural diamonds because they come through a shorter supply chain.

Resale value: Mined diamonds have a long history and because no new mines have been discovered in the past 30 years, are becoming more and more rare. Lab-grown diamonds are too new to have established a resale market but the increased demand will only help strengthen their resale value. 

Want to learn more? Connect with one of Craig Husar’s Trusted Jewelry Advisors today.

For more information Lab Grown Diamond, trapezoid diamond, please get in touch with us!