Natural vs. Lab-Grown Diamonds: What’s the Difference?

When it comes to buying a diamond, there are two main options: natural and lab-grown. While both types of diamonds have their own unique advantages and characteristics, there are some key differences that you should be aware of when making your purchase.

Natural Diamonds:

Natural diamonds are formed deep within the earth's mantle over billions of years. They are created when carbon is subjected to extreme heat and pressure, and they are then brought to the earth's surface through volcanic activity. Because they are created by nature, natural diamonds are incredibly rare and valuable. They also have unique characteristics, including inclusions, blemishes, and natural colors, that make each diamond one-of-a-kind.

Lab-Grown Diamonds:

Lab-grown diamonds, also known as synthetic or cultured diamonds, are created in a laboratory setting using advanced technology that mimics the natural diamond-growing process. They are made from a tiny diamond seed, which is placed in a machine that simulates the intense heat and pressure of the earth's mantle. Over time, the seed grows into a diamond that is chemically and physically identical to a natural diamond. The main difference is that lab-grown diamonds can be produced in a matter of weeks, while natural diamonds take billions of years to form.

How Are They Different?

The main difference between natural and lab-grown diamonds is their origin. Natural diamonds are formed in the earth over billions of years, while lab-grown diamonds are created in a matter of weeks in a laboratory. As a result, natural diamonds are incredibly rare and valuable, while lab-grown diamonds are more accessible and affordable.

Another difference between natural and lab-grown diamonds is their unique characteristics. Natural diamonds can have inclusions, blemishes, and natural colors that make each diamond one-of-a-kind. Lab-grown diamonds, on the other hand, are created in a controlled environment and are typically more consistent in terms of their appearance and quality.

Why Choose Natural Diamonds?

Natural diamonds have been coveted for their rarity and beauty for centuries. They are a symbol of love and commitment, and they hold a special place in our culture and history. Natural diamonds also have a unique and varied range of colors, including pink, yellow, blue, and green, that are incredibly rare and valuable.

Why Choose Lab-Grown Diamonds?

Lab-grown diamonds offer several advantages over natural diamonds. Because they are created in a laboratory, they are more accessible and affordable than natural diamonds. They are also more environmentally friendly, as they require less energy and resources to produce. Lab-grown diamonds are also free from the ethical concerns that can be associated with natural diamonds, such as conflict diamonds.

At Barnard Fine Jewellery, we understand the value in both natural and lab-grown diamonds. While we have a deep appreciation for the rarity and unique characteristics of natural diamonds, we also recognize the accessibility and affordability of lab-grown diamonds. That's why we have access to a wide selection of both natural and lab-grown diamonds to choose from, so that our customers can find the perfect diamond for their needs and budget. While our preference is to work with natural diamonds, we believe that it's important to provide options to our customers and to support the growth and development of the lab-grown diamond industry. We are committed to providing transparent and ethical sourcing for all of our diamonds, and we believe that both natural and lab-grown diamonds can be beautiful and meaningful choices for any occasion.