Compare · Diamond origin
Natural or lab-grown? Start with what matters to you.
Both can be real diamonds. The main differences are where they come from, what they cost and what their story means to you.
Are lab-grown diamonds real diamonds?
Yes. Lab-grown diamonds have essentially the same chemical make-up, crystal structure and physical properties as natural diamonds. They are different from lookalikes such as cubic zirconia and moissanite.
You usually cannot confirm the origin just by looking or with a basic diamond tester. A professional gem laboratory can identify how the diamond was formed and check for treatments.
| Question | Natural diamond | Laboratory-grown diamond |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Formed naturally in the earth. | Created in a laboratory using HPHT or CVD technology. |
| Is it a diamond? | Yes. | Yes. It is different from a diamond lookalike, although the lab-grown origin must be stated. |
| How to check | Use a grading report that confirms what the diamond is and where it came from. | Use a report that clearly says the diamond is lab-grown and notes any treatments. |
| What origin does not tell you | Whether the diamond is beautiful, well cut or right for your ring. | Whether the diamond is beautiful, well cut or right for your ring. |
| Future value | Do not buy either type as a guaranteed investment. Resale prices are uncertain and depend on the exact item and the market at the time. | |
Questions worth asking each other
- Does a diamond formed in the earth feel more meaningful to either of you?
- What would you do with the money saved on a lab-grown diamond? A larger stone, a better-made setting, the wedding or money left in the bank are all honest answers.
- Would a fall in resale price bother you? Nobody can promise what either type will be worth later.
- Does the seller put the origin in writing?
- Would you make the same choice if nobody ever saw the report? That question is surprisingly good at cutting through outside opinions.
Where these facts come from
See GIA’s guide to natural and laboratory-grown diamonds and its lab-grown diamond services. Reports and market conditions can change, so check the paperwork for the exact diamond you are considering.