Natural vs Lab Grown Diamonds: What to Know Before You Buy

Choosing between natural and lab-grown diamonds is no longer just about price, it’s about values, sustainability, and personal style. If you’re wondering which sparkles brighter for your story, this guide will help you compare both options from quality to cost and beyond.

Although they are both shiny and have the same ingredients, their stories are nothing alike. The process of creating natural diamonds started deep underground, over a period of many years. Rather, lab-grown diamonds take only a few weeks to create in high-tech laboratories. 

Seeing the difference between lab-grown and natural diamonds helps you select the right one for you and your budget.

How Natural Diamonds Form 

Natural diamonds are created under the Earth’s surface. It takes billions of years. High temperatures and pressure change carbon into the structure of a gemstone. They are mined, cut, and given a polish before you receive them.

Because they are not very common, this makes them both attractive and expensive.

Each natural diamond can be recognised by its special fingerprint. Tiny inclusions, specific to their formation, make each one different. That’s why many still prefer them for engagement rings and heirloom jewellery.

At Eardecor, you will find stunning natural diamond studs that have timeless value. They’re perfect for those who appreciate nature’s slow, majestic artistry.

What Are Lab Grown Diamonds?

High-tech labs are where lab-grown diamonds are produced. Two techniques are used by scientists to mimic the conditions of the Earth: HPHT (High Pressure, High Temperature) and CVD (Chemical Vapour Deposition). In just weeks, they create a real diamond.

Yes, real. Chemically, optically, and physically, lab diamonds are identical to natural ones. But they’re far more accessible.

Lab-grown diamonds are about 30-50% cheaper than natural ones, which raises a common question, are lab-grown diamonds worth it? The answer lies in value, sustainability, and style. They are appreciated by people who care about sustainability. Since they use Lab Diamonds, brands such as Ears Decor make Halo Studs and Cluster Earrings that are just as beautiful and clear, and they are eco-friendly because the process does not require mining.

A great example is their Brilliant Cut Round Lab Diamond Halo Studs, retailing at £92.00, which are perfect for a modern and stylish look.

How to Tell the Difference 

Without equipment, it’s nearly impossible.

Even gemologists need specialised tools to spot the origin. Lab diamonds can show growth patterns under a microscope. But to the naked eye, they’re identical. That’s both their strength and challenge.

Buyers should always ask for certification. At Ears Decor, each lab-grown or natural diamond earring comes with trusted authentication. So, you never have to guess.

Quick Comparison: Natural vs Lab Grown Diamonds

Price Differences 

This is where the difference becomes crystal clear, literally and financially. Natural diamonds are rare and take billions of years to form deep beneath the Earth. Their mining, processing, and distribution involve many middlemen, which adds to the cost. That’s why a natural diamond can cost thousands.

Lab-grown diamonds, in contrast, are produced in controlled environments using advanced technology. They take only a few weeks to create and bypass many of the expensive steps involved with mined stones. The result? A similar-looking diamond at nearly half the price.

For example, at Ears Decor, the Round Cut Lab Grown Diamond Dainty Stud Earrings are available for just £88.00. The same look in a natural diamond could easily double your cost. You’re getting the same sparkle, same structure, and same fineness, just at a smarter price. Choosing lab-grown means more value without compromising on the dazzle. 

Sustainability Matters

Mining affects the environment. Land is disturbed. Water resources get used up. Sometimes, local communities are impacted.

Lab diamonds skip all that.

They use less energy and water. These eco-friendly diamonds skip digging, blasting, or relocating ecosystems. If you care about ethical sourcing and a lower carbon footprint, lab diamonds win.

That’s why collections like Ears Decor’s Lab Diamond Studs and Men’s Lab Diamond Hoops are in demand. The 3.80 MM Men's Solitaire Studs, priced at £48.00, are a stylish nod to eco-friendly luxury.

Durability & Quality

Both naturally occurring and lab-grown diamonds are extremely strong. They are regarded as very tough because they score 10 on the Mohs scale, which is the highest rank. Thus, they resist scratches, hot temperatures, and pressure, so they are a popular choice for everyday use.

Whether you choose a natural 2.10 MM Solitaire Stud or go for the sleek princess-cut lab-grown diamond Hoop Earrings, you’re investing in quality that stands the test of time. The sparkle doesn’t fade, and the surface stays intact even with everyday use.

At Ears Decor, each design is more than just beautiful, it’s made to last. Built with great skill, our earrings bring together high-quality stones and strong settings, which ensure they stay in top condition for many years. The pieces we make range from cute studs to attention-grabbing hoops, just ready for real life, style them with confidence, and they’ll stick with you for many years.

Resale & Investment

This is where natural diamonds take the lead.

Because of their rarity and perception, they often hold more resale value. Lab-grown diamonds are still catching up in the resale market.

However, not all jewellery is bought for investment. Sometimes, it’s about love, fashion, or self-expression. And for that, lab diamonds offer freedom to buy more styles, more often.

For instance, Ears Decor’s Black Enamel Round Cut Lab Solitaire Studs at £88.00 make a bold statement at a great price. So you can build a versatile collection without breaking the bank.

So Which One Should You Choose?

The answer lies in your values.

Want something rare and natural? Go for a natural diamond. Looking for affordability and sustainability? Try a lab-grown diamond.

If you're gift shopping, Ears Decor offers both. Our Gemstone Cluster Studs, Butterfly Lab Diamond Studs, and even Mini Marvel kid's earrings are lab-grown with care and creativity.

In short, natural diamonds are traditional. Lab-grown diamonds are forward-thinking. And both are beautiful.

Conclusion 

The choice between natural and lab-grown diamonds isn’t about right or wrong. It’s about what fits your story, budget, and beliefs.

Both offer brilliance, luxury, and strength. But one speaks of Earth’s slow magic. The other of human innovation.

No matter your choice, Ears Decor offers both natural and lab-grown diamond earrings crafted for beauty, value, and authenticity. Explore our full diamond earring collection now.

FAQs  

1. Which is better - lab grown or natural diamonds?

Both lab grown and natural diamonds are excellent choices, offering brilliance, strength, and beauty. Natural diamonds are rare and often hold long-term value, while lab grown diamonds are more affordable and eco-friendly. The best option depends on your style, values, and budget.

2. Are lab grown diamonds real?

Yes. Lab grown diamonds are real diamonds with the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as natural diamonds, just made in a lab instead of the Earth.

3. Do lab grown diamonds retain their sparkle over time?

Yes. Lab grown diamonds are just as durable as mined diamonds and maintain their shine, brilliance, and clarity for a lifetime with proper care.

4. Can you tell if a diamond is natural or lab-created?

To the naked eye, lab grown and natural diamonds look identical. Only advanced gemological equipment can distinguish between them by detecting internal growth patterns.

5. Are lab grown diamonds more affordable?

Yes. Lab grown diamonds typically cost 30-50% less than natural diamonds while offering the same look, structure, and brilliance.

6. Are lab grown diamonds eco-friendly?

Yes. Lab grown diamonds are considered eco-friendly diamonds because they require no mining, use less water and energy, and have a lower environmental impact.

7. What is the resale value of lab grown diamonds?

Lab diamond resale value is growing but still developing. While natural diamonds usually hold higher long-term resale value, lab grown diamonds are more cost-effective upfront and ideal for fashion-forward buyers.

8. Where can I buy lab-created diamond earrings?

You can shop certified lab-created diamond earrings at Ears Decor. Explore sparkling studs, hoops, and halo styles that combine sustainable sourcing with modern design.

9. Can lab grown diamonds come in different colours?

Yes. Lab grown diamonds are available in colours like pink, yellow, and blue. Their shades are created by introducing gases during the growth process, offering a wider variety than rare natural coloured diamonds.

10. Does Ears Decor offer insurance on diamond earrings?

Yes. Every diamond earring from Ears Decor comes with complimentary insurance coverage, free of charge. It protects your purchase against damage, loss, or theft, giving you peace of mind along with lasting shine.

11. Are lab grown diamonds suitable for engagement rings?

Yes. Lab grown diamonds are an excellent choice for engagement rings. They offer the same beauty and durability at a lower cost, allowing couples to choose larger stones or custom designs within budget.