Choosing between a natural and a lab-grown diamond comes down to how the stone came into being. Natural diamonds formed deep underground over billions of years; lab-grown diamonds are created in high-tech chambers in a matter of weeks. Chemically and physically, both are diamond—pure carbon with the same hardness and sparkle—so they look the same to the eye. Where they differ is origin, availability, traceability and, for most buyers, price and likely resale.

This guide sets out the facts so you can buy with confidence. We’ll compare similarities and differences at a glance, explain how diamonds are made (CVD vs HPHT), show how professionals tell them apart, and break down UK pricing today and what drives it. You’ll find clear advice on quality (the 4Cs), certification (GIA vs IGI), ethics and sustainability, durability and care, and how lab diamonds differ from simulants like moissanite or cubic zirconia. We’ll cover coloured options, how to maximise your budget and finger coverage, and finish with a practical decision guide and UK checklist to help you choose the right stone for your ring.

Key similarities and differences at a glance

At heart, natural vs lab grown diamonds are the same gemstone: real diamond with identical sparkle, hardness and day‑to‑day wear. The key splits are how they’re created, what they cost, how traceable they are and what you can expect for resale.

• What’s the same

  • Real diamond: Same chemical, physical and optical properties; both test as diamond.
  • Look & durability: Indistinguishable to the eye; 10 on the Mohs scale.
  • Grading: Assessed by the 4Cs; GIA and IGI certify both, with laser inscriptions.
  • Detection: Only specialist lab equipment can separate origin.

• What differs

  • Origin: Earth‑formed over billions of years vs grown in weeks (CVD/HPHT).
  • Price today: Lab grown typically 50–80% less for like‑for‑like quality.
  • Resale: Natural tends to hold value better; lab grown resale is uncertain and often lower.
  • Ethics & impact: Labs use less land; energy use varies. Mined supply has safeguards (e.g., Kimberley Process) and can support communities.
  • Choice per budget: Labs often mean larger carat/colour/clarity for the same spend; coloured options differ by origin.

What natural and lab grown diamonds are made of

At their core, natural vs lab grown diamonds are the same material: pure carbon bonded in a diamond crystal structure. That shared chemistry gives both the same optical beauty and durability, including a hardness of 10 on the Mohs scale. The key difference isn’t what they’re made of, but tiny trace elements and growth features picked up during formation—over billions of years in the Earth for natural diamonds, or in weeks inside high‑tech chambers for lab‑grown stones.

• Natural diamonds: Often contain minute traces (commonly nitrogen) acquired in nature; such elements can influence colour.
• Lab‑grown diamonds: Typically contain little to no nitrogen; makers can introduce elements (e.g., boron or nitrogen) to create blue or yellow hues.
• Result: Both are chemically diamond and test as such; only specialist equipment can separate origin by detecting these traces.

How lab grown diamonds are made: CVD vs HPHT

Lab‑grown diamonds begin with a tiny diamond “seed” and grow into crystal under tightly controlled conditions. Two methods are used: Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD) and High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT). Both create real diamonds in weeks, not millennia, and—once cut—look the same to the eye; the differences are the machinery, growth patterns and whether a stone may need post‑growth treatment to optimise colour.

• CVD (Chemical Vapour Deposition): A seed is placed in a vacuum chamber filled with carbon‑rich gas that’s energised into plasma. Carbon atoms deposit onto the seed layer by layer, often forming square, tabular rough. Conditions can be tuned and trace elements added for fancy colours. Many CVD stones are later treated to refine colour and clarity.

• HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature): A seed and carbon source sit inside a press that replicates the Earth’s deep mantle—extreme pressure and heat transform carbon into diamond, typically yielding cubic or octahedral rough. HPHT growth often requires significant energy but can produce high‑quality crystals with less need for post‑growth treatment.

Both routes can deliver excellent, GIA or IGI‑graded diamonds; judge the individual stone rather than the method.

How to tell natural vs lab grown diamonds apart

You can’t tell natural vs lab grown diamonds apart by eye. Both are chemically identical and will read as “diamond” on handheld testers. Professionals rely on specialist lab instruments that analyse growth features and trace elements. A frequent clue is nitrogen: natural diamonds often contain minute amounts, while many lab‑grown diamonds show little to none. For buyers, the dependable route is paperwork and laser inscriptions—reputable grading reports state origin, and the diamond’s girdle is inscribed with a unique report number (with IGI also adding “lab grown”).

• Check the certificate: GIA or IGI reports clearly state natural or laboratory‑grown.
• Match the inscription: Verify the girdle’s laser number against the report; IGI inscribes “lab grown”.
• Ask for disclosure: A trusted jeweller will show the grading report and confirm origin.
• Don’t guess by look: Sparkle, inclusions or fluorescence aren’t reliable—only specialist equipment can separate origin.

Cost today: price differences and what affects them

Same sparkle, very different price. For like‑for‑like quality, lab grown diamonds typically cost 50–80% less than natural diamonds, largely because production is faster and more efficient than finding and mining stones. Current UK retail examples commonly look like this for the same cut, colour and clarity:

Prices move with supply and demand, but the gap remains substantial. The key is to compare apples with apples: identical carat, shape and 4C grades, plus a reputable grading report stating origin.

• Why labs cost less: Efficient growth (weeks) vs costly, long‑cycle mining.
• What pushes price up (both origins):
  • Carat weight: Bigger jumps carry outsized premiums.
  • Cut quality: Top cuts command higher prices and better brilliance.
  • Colour and clarity: D–F and higher clarities cost more.
  • Certification: Recognised reports (GIA/IGI) support pricing and confidence.

Next, understand how those upfront savings relate to resale and long‑term considerations.

Resale value and long-term considerations

Treat both natural and lab grown diamonds as meaningful jewellery, not investments. Reputable sources note that resale for any diamond is typically below the original retail price. Natural diamonds tend to hold value better over time due to rarity and finite supply, while the future value of lab grown diamonds is uncertain and often lower—production can scale, and retail prices have fallen as efficiency improves. No one can guarantee where lab prices will go next, so buy for love and use, not profit.

• If potential resale matters: Lean towards natural diamonds and keep expectations conservative.
• If maximising size and quality for today’s budget matters: Lab grown offers 50–80% lower upfront cost for like‑for‑like specifications.
• For either origin: Keep the GIA or IGI certificate and note the laser inscription—proof of grading and origin supports any future resale or part‑exchange discussion.

Next, let’s look at how quality and appearance compare when you judge stones by the 4Cs.

Quality and appearance: how the 4Cs apply to each

Natural vs lab grown diamonds look the same when well cut because the 4Cs—cut, colour, clarity and carat—apply identically. Brilliance comes from cut, not origin, and both stones test as real diamond and wear the same on the hand. Differences show up in growth features: some CVD lab diamonds can display brownish undertones or internal graining and are often treated post‑growth to refine colour and clarity, while many HPHT stones need less treatment. Natural diamonds commonly contain minute nitrogen; lab stones typically show little to none. In practice, judge the individual diamond, not how it was made.

• Prioritise cut: Aim for Excellent cut (and Excellent polish/symmetry). It’s the biggest driver of sparkle for both origins.
• Colour: For a bright, white look, many buyers choose D–F. Lab grown often lets you step up colour within the same budget.
• Clarity: VS2–SI1 can be eye‑clean in both natural and lab; review videos and images.
• Carat & shape: With lab grown pricing 50–80% lower like‑for‑like, you can often choose a larger carat or upgraded grades.
• Check treatment disclosure: Many CVD stones are post‑growth treated—your grading report will note this.

Next, make sure the grading on paper matches the diamond you’re viewing.

Certification and grading: GIA vs IGI and laser inscriptions

Independent grading is your safety net. Both GIA and IGI certify natural and lab grown diamonds, and their reports clearly disclose origin. GIA has graded lab grown since 2007 and labels them as laboratory‑grown, using its standard colour, clarity and cut scales for reference, with notes that may include growth method (CVD or HPHT). IGI also grades lab grown and typically uses the familiar global D–Z and FL–I1 terminology on reports. Both labs laser‑inscribe a unique report number on the girdle; IGI additionally inscribes “lab grown”. Treatment disclosures appear on reports.

• Report type: Ensure it’s GIA or IGI and states natural or laboratory‑grown.
• Laser inscription: Match the girdle number to the report; IGI adds “lab grown” (viewable under magnification).
• Growth method: Look for CVD/HPHT disclosure where provided.
• Treatments: Check for any post‑growth colour/clarity treatments.
• Paperwork first: Buy the diamond, not just the setting—verify the report before you pay.

Ethics and sustainability: mining, energy use and traceability

Ethics aren’t one‑size‑fits‑all. Natural vs lab grown diamonds differ mainly in land use, energy and traceability, but the “more ethical” choice depends on the specific supply chain. Mining disturbs land but is governed by safeguards such as the UN‑backed Kimberley Process to prevent conflict diamonds, and many operations support local livelihoods. Labs avoid excavation and typically use far less land, yet growth requires significant electricity; reported footprints vary widely—from hundreds of kWh per carat to a few tens where producers claim high efficiency or renewable power. What matters is documented transparency.

• Mining & land: Natural mining uses large areas; labs are compact and avoid excavation. Choose responsibly sourced natural diamonds where provenance is clear.
• Energy & emissions: HPHT is energy‑hungry; CVD also draws notable power. Some labs use renewables or make carbon‑neutral claims—ask for evidence.
• Traceability: Lab origin can be highly traceable; GIA/IGI reports disclose “laboratory‑grown”. For natural, insist on conflict‑free assurances and origin disclosure.
• Community impact: Ethically run mines can provide vital income in mining‑dependent regions; many labs operate in already‑developed countries.
• Your checklist: Proof of origin and grading report, details of mine/lab, energy source or offsets, and any third‑party assurances—plus robust aftercare to extend the jewel’s life.

Durability, care and everyday wear

In everyday life, natural vs lab grown diamonds wear the same. Both are real diamond with the same chemistry and crystal structure, measuring 10 on the Mohs scale, so they’re highly resistant to scratching and abrasion. Origin doesn’t change toughness or sparkle in use; what matters is the quality of the cut, the security of the setting and simple, regular care to keep the stone bright.

• Treat it like diamond: Both types are tough, but avoid hard knocks on edges and table, and remove your ring for contact sport or heavy gym work.
• Keep it clean: Regular gentle cleaning and a soft wipe keep brilliance high; lotions and everyday grime dull any diamond.
• Protect the setting: Have claws/prongs checked periodically; secure settings prevent accidental loss.
• Store smart: Keep your ring separate from other jewellery to avoid scratching softer gems and metals.
• Use aftercare: Periodic professional cleaning and polishing refresh the look; A Star Diamonds offers lifetime cleaning and polishing on our UK‑made rings.

Lab diamonds vs simulants: moissanite and cubic zirconia

It’s easy to confuse lab-grown diamonds with “look‑alike” stones, but they’re not the same thing. Lab-grown diamonds are real diamond—identical in chemistry, optics and hardness to natural diamonds and certified by GIA or IGI. Simulants such as moissanite and cubic zirconia only imitate the appearance; they behave differently in light and wear differently over time.

• Lab-grown diamond: 100% diamond with the same sparkle, durability (Mohs 10) and grading standards as natural; indistinguishable to the eye and tests as diamond.

• Moissanite (simulant): A different gemstone made in labs. Shows a very fiery, rainbow‑heavy sparkle and can appear grey, brown, yellow or greenish. Being doubly refractive, larger stones can look fuzzy or hazy.

• Cubic zirconia/CZ (simulant): Very inexpensive and often flawless, but scratches more easily and gives a softer, more rainbow‑like sparkle; even if created colourless, it can yellow over time.

If you want diamond’s look and durability, choose natural or lab‑grown. Simulants suit fashion budgets but won’t perform like diamond.

Coloured diamonds: options in natural and lab grown

Both natural and lab grown diamonds come in “fancy” colours as well as classic colourless. In nature, trace elements and growth conditions create hues; in the lab, technicians can guide colour by introducing elements (for example boron for blue, nitrogen for yellow) and fine‑tuning growth—often making vivid colours more accessible.

• Lab‑grown options: Common in vivid shades like yellow, blue, pink, orange, green, red and black. Colour can be achieved or enhanced through controlled growth and post‑growth treatment. Expect clearer disclosure and strong value relative to natural equivalents.

• Natural‑only looks: Subtler, characterful tones such as salt‑and‑pepper, grey, paler yellow and champagne are typically found in mined stones, with unique internal patterns and smoky hues that labs tend not to replicate.

• What to check: Verify colour origin on the GIA/IGI report, ask about any treatments, and compare intensity grades in person or via high‑quality video—subtlety vs saturation is a personal choice.

Design and size choices: making the most of your budget

Design is your secret weapon. Because natural vs lab grown diamonds look the same when well cut, you can use shape, setting and metal colour to maximise finger coverage without overspending. Lab‑grown’s typical 50–80% price advantage lets you step up carat or quality; with natural, smart design does the heavy lifting.

• Choose “spread” shapes: Ovals, pears, marquise and elongated cushions show more face‑up area than rounds at the same carat.
• Prioritise cut: A top cut boosts brightness and makes any diamond appear larger.
• Add a halo (or hidden halo): A fine halo and/or slim diamond band increases visual size for less than jumping carat.
• Refine the setting: Slim claws, tapered shoulders and open galleries show more diamond; bulky bezels can reduce apparent size.
• Match metal to colour: Yellow/rose gold flatters G–H (even I) by reading whiter; platinum/white gold best showcases D–F.
• Think multi‑stone: Three‑stone or cluster designs spread sparkle using smaller, better‑value stones.
• Mind thresholds: Buying just under 1.00, 1.50 or 2.00 ct can avoid steep price jumps.
• Balance proportions: A slim band focuses the eye on the centre, while east‑west settings widen finger coverage.

A Star Diamonds can sketch proportions and source natural and lab options side‑by‑side to hit your look and budget.

Which should you choose? A decision guide by priorities and budget

The right choice is the one that fits your values and the ring you want to wear every day. Natural vs lab grown diamonds share the same beauty and durability; the trade‑offs are price, provenance, rarity and how you feel about future value. Use this quick guide to match your priorities.

• Maximise size/quality for budget: Choose lab grown; like‑for‑like stones are typically 50–80% less, so you can step up carat, colour or cut.
• Rarity and potential value retention: Choose natural; finite supply generally supports stronger resale, though no diamond is an investment.
• Traceability and land use: Choose lab grown with clear disclosure; labs use far less land and can offer high provenance transparency—ask for evidence.
• Energy footprint concerns: Compare a lab’s stated energy source/offsets with responsibly sourced natural options and conflict‑free assurances.
• Symbolism and story: Natural for geological romance; lab grown for science‑led sustainability and modern values.
• Colour and character: Natural for salt‑and‑pepper, grey and champagne tones; lab grown for vivid fancy colours at accessible prices.
• Undecided: View certified natural and lab options side‑by‑side and pick the stone that moves you.

Next, a UK buying checklist—and how A Star Diamonds can help you compare options with confidence.

Buying in the UK: checklists and how A Star Diamonds can help

Buying well is about verification and aftercare. Use this simple checklist to compare natural vs lab grown diamonds like‑for‑like, then choose the stone and setting that feel right for you and your budget.

• Insist on grading: GIA or IGI report stating origin (natural or laboratory‑grown).
• Match the diamond: Check the girdle’s laser inscription against the report; IGI also inscribes “lab grown”.
• Judge the 4Cs properly: Prioritise cut; review magnified images/video for eye‑cleanliness.
• Disclosure: Ask about growth method (CVD/HPHT) and any post‑growth treatments (shown on the report).
• Apples to apples: Compare identical carat, shape and grades across origins.
• Paperwork: Get a written quote with report number, ring specs and an insurance valuation.
• Aftercare & timing: Confirm resizing, cleaning/polishing, warranty, returns and lead time.

How A Star Diamonds makes it easy:

• Bespoke, UK‑made: Designed in Hatton Garden; crafted in‑house for fit and finish.
• Expert sourcing: Gemologists curate natural and 100% conflict‑free lab‑grown options to your brief.
• Transparent verification: Side‑by‑side comparisons with certificates and laser inscriptions checked.
• Lifetime benefits: Free resizing, polishing and cleaning, plus complimentary engraving.
• Ethics first: Ethically sourced natural diamonds and fully disclosed lab grown, aligned to your values.
• Personal service: In‑person or virtual appointments, phone and WhatsApp support from first sketch to proposal‑ready ring.

Conclusion section

Natural and lab grown diamonds are equally “real” in beauty and durability; what differs is origin, price today, traceability and how you feel about future value. The smartest path is to compare like‑for‑like stones, prioritise cut, verify GIA/IGI certification and laser inscriptions, and choose the diamond that best aligns with your priorities and budget.

If you’d like expert, pressure‑free guidance, we can show you certified natural and lab‑grown options side‑by‑side, design a UK‑made ring around your story, and support it for life with free resizing, polishing and cleaning. Start your journey with A Star Diamonds and leave with a ring that feels unmistakably yours.