Our Topics
Subscribe Us
Subscribe to our newsletter and receive a selection of cool articles every weeks
Lab Grown vs Natural Diamonds: What’s the Difference? | Vulcan Jewellery
Lab grown vs natural diamonds - what’s the difference, and which should you choose? This guide explains how they compare on price, quality, and ethics, and why Vulcan Jewellery exclusively showcases lab grown stones in their engagement rings online.
Lab Grown Diamonds vs Natural Diamonds: What’s the Difference?
Choosing between a lab grown diamond and a natural diamond is one of the most common decisions our clients face — and one of the easiest to demystify. Both are real diamonds, but there are some key differences in origin, price, and perception. This guide breaks it down clearly so you can decide what’s right for you.
What Are Lab Grown Diamonds?
Lab grown diamonds are created in advanced laboratories that replicate the natural conditions under which diamonds form in the earth. The result is a diamond with the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as a mined diamond — it’s simply grown in a lab rather than pulled from the ground.
Why choose lab grown?
-
Up to 50% more affordable
-
Environmentally conscious with less ecological disruption
-
Conflict-free and ethically sourced
-
Visually identical to natural diamonds
What Are Natural Diamonds?
Natural diamonds are formed deep within the earth over billions of years, brought to the surface through volcanic activity and mined across the globe. They’re prized for their natural rarity and long-standing value.
Why choose natural?
-
Valued for their tradition and history
-
Seen by some as having higher long-term prestige
-
Ideal for those who want a gemstone with ancient origins
Lab Grown
2ct Emerald Cut Diamond
Natural
Emerald Cut Diamond
Lab Grown vs Natural Diamonds: At a Glance, What’s the Best Diamond for You?
| Feature | Lab Grown Diamonds | Natural Mined diamonds |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Grown in a lab | Mined from the earth |
| Visual Appearance | Identical to natural | Identical to lab grown |
| Price | 30-50% more affordable | More expensive |
| Environmental Impact | Lower | Higher |
| Ethical Sourcing | Always conflict-free | Depends on mining source |
| Rarity | Less rare | Naturally rare |
Can You Tell the Difference?
No - not without specialist equipment. Even professional jewellers cannot distinguish between a lab diamond and a natural diamond by eye. Both can be certified by GIA, IGI, or other grading labs, and both can be cut into any shape or size you like. We primarily sell our lab grown diamonds with an IGI certificate showing full traceability. Our natural diamonds are sold with either a GIA or IGI certificate.
Which Should You Choose?
There’s no right or wrong choice - only what’s right for you. If sustainability and value matter most, lab grown diamonds are without a doubt the best option. If you're drawn to tradition and rarity, natural diamonds may be your preference.
💡 At Vulcan, we offer both.
Our online store exclusively showcases lab grown diamonds, reflecting our commitment to sustainability and value. But if you're after a natural diamond, just get in touch - we’ll source the perfect stone for you through our bespoke design service.
Not sure where to start? Read our guide to choosing the perfect diamond for your engagement ring.
Why Vulcan?
We’re not here to push one or the other. We’re here to help you choose confidently, with no pressure. Every ring we make is handcrafted to order with your values, style, and budget at the centre.
✨ Whether lab or natural, every Vulcan diamond ring is made to be worn, loved, and passed down.
You can also design your own engagement ring by filling out the form on our bespoke page.
Let’s Find Your Perfect Diamond
Browse our lab grown collection or speak to our team for natural diamond options. We’ll guide you through every step of the journey.
Written by Ethan Tate, founder of Vulcan Jewellery.
Comments
No comments
Leave a comment
Your Email Address Will Not Be Published. Required Fields Are Marked *
0 comments