What Is the Difference Between Lab Grown and Natural Diamonds?

Formation Process

Diamonds can be formed in two different ways: naturally in the Earth or through technology in a laboratory. Both types of diamonds have the same physical and chemical properties, but their formation processes are very different.

Natural Diamonds

Natural Diamonds are created deep beneath the Earth's surface, about 90 to 120 miles underground, where carbon is exposed to extreme pressure and temperatures (around 2,200 degrees Fahrenheit and 725,000 pounds per square inch). Most Natural Diamonds were formed one to three billion years ago.

The carbon atoms slowly bond together in a crystal lattice structure, forming a diamond. These diamonds are eventually brought closer to the Earth's surface through volcanic eruptions, where they are found in kimberlite and lamproite pipes.

Mining companies then extract the rough diamonds through open-pit or underground mining. Each Natural Diamond is completely unique due to the complex natural conditions and impurities present during its formation.

Lab Grown Diamonds

Lab Diamonds are created in a controlled environment that replicates the conditions under which Natural Diamonds form, but in a much shorter time frame, typically a few weeks to a few months.

There are two main methods used to grow diamonds in a lab:

• High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT): This method mimics the natural formation process by subjecting a carbon source to high pressure and high temperature inside a press. A small diamond seed is placed in the carbon, and over time, more carbon crystallizes around it, forming a larger diamond.
• Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD): In this process, a diamond seed is placed in a chamber filled with carbon-rich gas, usually methane. The chamber is heated to around 1,500 degrees Fahrenheit, and the gas breaks down, allowing carbon atoms to deposit onto the seed and slowly grow into a diamond layer by layer.

Both HPHT and CVD methods produce diamonds that are chemically, physically, and optically identical to Natural Diamonds.

The controlled environment also allows for greater precision and fewer inclusions, making Lab Grown Diamonds a high-quality alternative with a shorter formation process.

Cost and Pricing

Lab Diamonds typically cost 20–40% less than Natural Diamonds. This is because they are made in a lab and are not limited by the slow, natural process or expensive mining operations.

Since they can be produced more efficiently, Lab Grown Diamonds are more affordable for buyers.

However, the price of both Lab Diamonds and Natural Diamonds can vary depending on several factors, including:

• Size (carat weight)
• Quality (cut, color, and clarity)
• Brand or retailer selling the diamond

Larger diamonds or those with higher grades in clarity and color will cost more, regardless of whether they are lab grown or natural.

Some brands may also charge more based on their reputation or custom designs.

Rarity and Supply

Natural Diamonds are considered rare because they form deep underground over billions of years and can only be found in certain parts of the world. They are mined from specific locations, and the supply is limited.

As more mines reach the end of their life, Natural Diamonds are becoming even harder to find, which adds to their value and rarity.

Lab Diamonds are not limited by nature. They are created in laboratories using advanced technology, which means they can be produced as needed, making their supply more flexible and scalable.

How Trained Experts Identify Lab-Grown vs. Natural Diamonds

Lab Diamonds and Natural Diamonds look the same to the naked eye. They have the same sparkle, color, and clarity, and both are made of pure carbon with the same crystal structure.

Most people cannot tell them apart just by looking. However, trained experts using special equipment can spot small differences.

Lab Diamonds may have unique growth patterns or tiny metallic inclusions from the manufacturing process. Natural Diamonds often have different internal features formed deep in the Earth.

Gem labs use tools like magnification and spectroscopy to identify these details and determine whether a diamond is lab grown or natural.

Mark Broumand's Stunning Jewelry Collection With Lab Grown Diamonds

At Mark Broumand, we have expanded our collection of fine jewelry to include Lab Diamonds. We ensure that each Lab Grown Diamond meets our brand's high standards of quality and craftsmanship.

Our budget-friendly luxury jewelry offers the elegance and high-quality craftsmanship of luxury pieces at a more accessible price point. It allows you to enjoy beautiful, finely crafted designs without a hefty price tag.