Choosing between a lab grown diamond and a natural diamond is one of the biggest decisions when purchasing an engagement ring or fine jewellery. While both are genuine diamonds, they differ in how they are formed, their value proposition, and the buying experience they offer.
At Her Crown, we believe the right diamond is the one that reflects your values, celebrates your milestones, and brings lasting joy. This guide explains the differences between lab grown and natural diamonds, helping you make an informed and confident decision.
Are Lab Grown Diamonds Real Diamonds?
Yes. Lab grown diamonds are 100% real diamonds.
They have the same:
- Chemical composition.
- Crystal structure.
- Optical properties.
- Hardness.
- Fire and brilliance.
The only difference is where they are created.
Natural diamonds form beneath the Earth’s surface over billions of years, while lab grown diamonds are created in advanced laboratories that replicate the same natural conditions in a matter of weeks.
To the naked eye, even experienced jewellers cannot distinguish a lab grown diamond from a natural diamond without specialised equipment.
Lab Grown Diamond vs Natural Diamond: Key Differences
|
Feature |
Lab Grown Diamond |
Natural Diamond |
|
Composition |
Real diamond |
Real diamond |
|
Hardness |
10 on the Mohs scale |
10 on the Mohs scale |
|
Brilliance |
Exceptional |
Exceptional |
|
Formation |
Grown in a laboratory |
Formed naturally underground |
|
Time to Form |
Several weeks |
Billions of years |
|
Certification |
IGI and other recognised laboratories |
GIA, IGI and other recognised laboratories |
|
Appearance |
Visually identical |
Visually identical |
Appearance and Sparkle
One of the most common questions is whether lab grown diamonds sparkle differently.
The answer is no.
Sparkle depends primarily on cut quality, not origin. A well-cut lab grown diamond displays the same brilliance, fire, and scintillation as a well-cut natural diamond.
At Her Crown, we select IGI-certified diamonds with excellent cut quality to maximise light performance and beauty.
Learn more about the IGI Certification
Durability
Diamonds are the hardest known natural material, rating 10 on the Mohs hardness scale.
Both lab grown and natural diamonds share this exceptional durability, making them ideal for engagement rings and jewellery worn every day.
With proper care, either option can last for generations.
Colour and Clarity
Both lab grown and natural diamonds are graded using the internationally recognised Four Cs:
- Cut
- Colour
- Clarity
- Carat
This means you can compare quality using the same grading standards regardless of a diamond’s origin.
Learn more about the 4Cs of Diamonds
Certification
Independent certification provides confidence in a diamond’s quality.
Many lab grown diamonds are graded by the International Gemological Institute (IGI), while natural diamonds are commonly certified by organisations such as GIA and IGI.
Certification records a diamond’s cut, colour, clarity, carat weight, proportions, and identifying characteristics.
Value
One of the main reasons buyers choose lab grown diamonds is value.
Because laboratory production is more efficient than mining, many customers can choose:
- A larger carat weight.
- A higher colour grade.
- Better clarity.
- More intricate ring designs.
This allows buyers to prioritise exceptional craftsmanship and beauty while staying within their preferred budget.
Sustainability and Ethics
Many buyers appreciate lab grown diamonds because they offer an alternative to traditional mining.
While both natural and lab grown diamonds have environmental impacts, laboratory-grown diamonds appeal to customers who value innovation, traceability, and modern production methods.
When choosing a diamond, it is worth considering the sourcing practices, certifications, and values of the jeweller you purchase from.
Which Diamond Should You Choose?
There is no universal answer.
A natural diamond may appeal to someone who values geological rarity and the story of a gemstone formed over billions of years.
A lab grown diamond may appeal to someone who prioritises exceptional quality, modern craftsmanship, and the ability to select a larger or higher-grade diamond within the same budget.
The right choice depends on your priorities, your style, and what your diamond represents to you.
Why Choose Her Crown?
At Her Crown, every ring is handcrafted in premium 14k or 18k gold and features carefully selected IGI-certified lab grown diamonds with exceptional cut, colour, and clarity.
Whether you choose a timeless Round Brilliant, a sophisticated Emerald Cut, or a bespoke design, our goal is to create jewellery that celebrates your unique journey with confidence and elegance.
