Lab-Grown vs Earth Mined Diamonds

What is a Lab-Grown Diamond?

Lab-grown diamonds are a fairly new phenomenon and are made in a laboratory in one of two ways: High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) or Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD). Lab-grown diamonds have the exact same chemical composition and will look identical (save the look of the internal characteristics) to their natural diamond counterpart.

Lab-Grown vs Earth Mined Diamonds

While lab-grown diamonds are manufactured in a controlled laboratory environment, earth mined diamonds occur naturally and are formed deep inside the Earth about 100 miles or so below the surface. Under extreme pressure and high temperatures, carbon crystals are formed into diamonds. Most natural diamonds are millions, if not billions, of years old making them a magnificent treasure from the Earth and a fantastic choice for engagement rings. In terms of pricing, Earth Mined diamonds can vary widely depending on their cut, color, clarity, and carat weight (the 4 C’s).

Lab-grown diamonds are also priced according to the 4 C’s but are considerably less expensive – up to 30% - 50% less and falling. Unlike Earth Mined diamonds, whose supply is finite, the quantity of lab-grown diamonds being produced is increasing and limitless. This means the lab-grown diamond market could lack any long-term price stability. Lab-grown diamond prices are likely to continue to fall as manufacturing capability improves and quantities rise.

Which to Buy?

The decision is a personal choice! Many factors, like pricing, size and shape may go into your decision on which to buy. Mark Michael Diamond Designs is proud to offer a beautiful selection of both Earth Mined and lab-grown diamonds. Our diamond experts are happy to chat with you further and help you decide which option might be best for you. Whichever option you choose Mark Michael Diamond Designs will help you select a beautiful diamond that will last a lifetime.