Lab-Grown vs. Natural Diamonds:
What’s the Difference?
If you’re shopping for a diamond, you’ve likely seen both natural and lab-grown options. But what sets them apart? And how do you choose the one that’s right for you?
What Are Lab-Grown Diamonds?
Lab-grown diamonds are chemically and visually identical to natural diamonds — but instead of forming underground over billions of years, they’re created in high-tech labs using heat, pressure, and carbon.
What Are Natural Diamonds?
Natural diamonds are mined from the earth, formed deep underground over immense geological time. Many are now certified under the Kimberley Process — a system aimed at preventing conflict diamonds from entering the global market.
Key Differences
| Feature | Lab-Grown Diamond | Natural Diamond |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Grown in a lab | Formed in the earth |
| Visuals | Identical to natural | Identical to lab-grown |
| Price | Now up to 70% less | Higher resale & rarity value |
| Environmental Impact | Low mining impact, high energy use | Higher environmental impact from mining |
| Ethical Safeguards | Varies by producer | Kimberley Process certified |
Are Lab Diamonds Ethical?
- ✔ No mining required
- ✔ No links to conflict zones
- ⚠ High energy use (unless powered by renewables)
- ⚠ Carbon source often comes from fossil fuels
- ⚠ Many labs don’t disclose full origin or power sources
Which One Is Right for You?
Choose a lab-grown diamond if you want more size for your budget and care about minimising mining impact.
Choose a natural diamond if you value geological rarity, long-term sentiment, and investment potential.
We Offer Both at Jewellery By Design NZ
We work with trusted suppliers of both natural and lab-grown diamonds, and we’re happy to guide you through the differences to help you choose what truly fits your values and story.
Let’s Talk Diamonds