Lab-Grown Diamonds vs. Mined Diamonds

Learn the Important Differences and Similarities

If you're in the market for a diamond engagement ring, it's important to research all of your options. While many people begin by considering style, metal, stone shape, and setting, we encourage you to consider the origin of the diamond itself.

There are key differences and similarities between lab-grown diamonds and mined diamonds that could allow you to pay significantly less for a larger diamond of the highest quality.

Here’s what you need to know:
Attribute Lab-Grown Diamonds Mined Diamonds
Origin Lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds. They are produced in a high-tech lab using pressure and temperature processes that replicate mined diamond formation. Because the process is fast and repeatable, lab-grown diamonds are a sustainable choice. The formation process of mined diamonds spans millions of years, resulting in a limited supply that makes their long-term availability unsustainable.
Physical properties Identical to mined diamonds in chemical, optical, and physical properties. Identical to lab-grown diamonds in chemical, optical, and physical properties.
Cost Lab-grown diamonds are typically 30–70% less expensive than mined diamonds of the same quality. This lower cost is due to several factors, including the absence of mining expenses, a more streamlined supply chain, quicker production, and a larger overall supply. The higher cost of mined diamonds stems from several factors, including expensive mining and supply chain processes. Additionally, market prices are inflated because a small number of industry players have historically restricted the supply of diamonds to perpetuate an artificial sense of scarcity.
Environmental impact Unlike mined diamonds, the creation of lab-grown diamonds avoids environmentally destructive practices like deforestation, habitat loss, and significant land displacement. Diamond mining draws criticism for its long-term environmental degradation, stemming from significant land excavation, high water consumption, and associated carbon emissions.
Ethical concerns Lab-grown diamonds offer a guaranteed conflict-free option because they are sourced from a laboratory. Diamond mining companies are frequently accused of violating human rights, utilizing child labor, and providing unsafe working conditions. Additionally, many have been implicated in contributing to cultural conflicts in unregulated regions.
Availability Because they are produced in a lab, lab-grown diamonds are readily available in all shapes, sizes, and colors, as they can be easily created on demand. Mined diamonds are subject to geological limitations, which makes them less readily available than lab-grown diamonds. Furthermore, certain colors or sizes of mined diamonds can be more challenging to source.
Customization It is simpler to manufacture lab-grown diamonds with precise specifications and a more extensive selection of colors and sizes. Because the color and size of mined diamonds are determined by nature, there are fewer custom options available.
Certification Certified by major gemological labs (e.g., GIA, IGI) with clear labeling as lab-grown. Certification is also standard, often including information on the diamond's origin if it comes from ethical sources.
Trends Lab-grown diamonds have seen a surge in popularity, particularly with younger consumers, due to their affordability, sustainability, and ethical sourcing. Despite their status as the "traditional" option, the widespread cultural acceptance of mined diamonds is largely the result of decades of targeted marketing.

The Right Choice for You

There are multiple factors to consider when choosing between a lab-grown diamond and a mined diamond. Think you're ready to begin designing your own unique, ethically-sourced lab-grown diamond engagement ring? Get started today!

Design the perfect engagement ring that aligns with your personal taste and values, all within your budget.