Natural Diamonds vs. Lab-Grown Diamonds: Understanding the Difference

At Glamina Gemstones & Diamonds, we believe that both natural and lab-grown diamonds carry their own brilliance, beauty, and purpose. The choice between the two ultimately depends on your values, preferences, and what story you want your diamond to tell.

Some are drawn to the rare, geological wonder of natural diamonds, each one a product of millions of years beneath the Earth’s surface. Others prefer the innovative, sustainable, and more affordable nature of lab-grown diamonds, reflecting a forward-thinking and conscious lifestyle.

Here’s what you should know when deciding which diamond best suits you or your business:

Formation & Origin

Natural Diamonds:

Natural diamonds are formed deep within the Earth’s mantle over billions of years, under extreme heat and pressure. They are later brought to the surface through volcanic activity, a process that makes each natural diamond a truly ancient masterpiece. Their natural origin and rarity give them unmatched prestige and emotional depth.

Lab-Grown Diamonds:

Lab-grown diamonds are created in advanced laboratories using cutting-edge technology such as High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) or Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD). These methods replicate the same natural process, but within weeks instead of millennia.

Crucially, lab-grown diamonds are chemically, physically, and optically identical to natural diamonds , even experts require specialized instruments to distinguish between them.

At Glamina, we can source lab-grown diamonds upon request, offering full flexibility for your bespoke orders.

Ethical & Environmental Factors

Ethics and sustainability play a significant role in modern diamond sourcing.

Natural Diamonds:

While the diamond industry has made strides toward responsible mining through initiatives like the Kimberley Process, which aims to eliminate conflict diamonds, some clients remain cautious about the ecological and humanitarian impact of traditional mining. At Glamina, we only work with trusted suppliers who adhere to ethical sourcing standards, ensuring transparency and traceability at every stage.

Lab-Grown Diamonds:

Lab diamonds are often seen as the more sustainable choice, as they avoid large-scale mining operations. However, it’s worth noting that producing them still requires substantial energy depending on the country and methods used. The environmental footprint can vary widely between producers, which is why at Glamina, we work only with certified, responsible lab diamond suppliers committed to clean energy and fair labour practices.

 

Emotional & Symbolic Value

Natural Diamonds:

The magic of a natural diamond lies in its history, a rare creation formed over eons, symbolizing eternity, endurance, and deep connection to the Earth. Many clients treasure natural diamonds for their timelessness and intrinsic value, often choosing them for heirloom or engagement pieces.

Lab-Grown Diamonds:

Lab-grown diamonds, while newer to the market, represent innovation, progress, and conscious luxury. They appeal to those who appreciate modernity, sustainability, and transparency, qualities that are increasingly valued in today’s world.

At Glamina, we see both as meaningful choices,  one steeped in heritage, the other in evolution.

Physical & Chemical Properties:

Whether mined or man-made, a diamond’s essence remains unchanged. Both varieties share the same:

Crystal structure: Pure carbon arranged in a cubic lattice.

Hardness: 10 on the Mohs scale, the hardest natural material known.

Brilliance: Identical refractive index and dispersion.

In short, a lab diamond is a real diamond, not a substitute or imitation.

Price & Value:

Natural Diamonds:

Their rarity directly affects their price. Exceptional size, colour, and clarity can significantly elevate their value, making them sought-after investments and status symbols.

 
Lab-Grown Diamonds:

Lab diamonds are typically 30–50% more affordable than their natural equivalents. This allows buyers to opt for larger or higher-grade stones within the same budget. However, because they are more easily reproducible, lab-grown diamonds don’t appreciate in value the way natural diamonds can.

 

Our Promise at Glamina

Whether you prefer the timeless allure of natural diamonds or the modern brilliance of lab-grown alternatives, Glamina Gemstones & Diamonds ensures expert guidance, transparency, and top-tier quality in every purchase.

We are proud to offer both , empowering our clients to choose consciously, without compromise on beauty or authenticity. 

Every diamond has a story — we help you choose the one that reflects yours.

 

Interested in Lab-Grown Diamonds?

Take a look at our webshop for diamonds in stock or contact us for a custom order.