Lab-Grown vs Natural Diamonds: What's the Difference?
An honest guide to lab-grown and natural diamonds — how they compare on origin, grading, sparkle, price and value, so you can choose with confidence.
Quick answer
Lab-grown and natural diamonds are both real diamonds — the same carbon crystal, with the same hardness, sparkle and optical properties. The difference is origin: a natural diamond formed deep in the earth over a very long time, while a lab-grown diamond is created in a controlled laboratory in a matter of weeks. Both are graded on the same criteria. Lab-grown is usually more affordable for the same size and quality; natural carries a rarity and origin premium. At Majestic Jewellery we offer both, set in solid gold and made to order.
Are lab-grown diamonds "real" diamonds?
Yes. A lab-grown diamond is chemically, physically and optically the same as a natural diamond — pure crystallised carbon, rated 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, with the same brilliance and fire. It is not a simulant like cubic zirconia or moissanite, which are different materials. The only real difference is how — and where — the diamond formed.
How they're made
Natural diamonds formed deep beneath the earth's surface over an extremely long period, then were carried closer to the surface by geological activity. Lab-grown diamonds are created in specialised laboratories that recreate the conditions for crystal growth — usually by one of two methods, High-Pressure High-Temperature (HPHT) or Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD) — producing a diamond in weeks rather than aeons.
Grading: the 4Cs, for both
Both types are assessed on the same four criteria — cut, colour, clarity and carat — and both can be independently graded by established laboratories such as IGI, GIA or HRD. Where a piece features a certified centre stone, it is supplied with independent laboratory grading; smaller accent diamonds are quality-matched in-house. A grading report tells you exactly what you're buying, whichever origin you choose.
Price and size for your budget
For the same size and quality, lab-grown diamonds are typically more affordable — which means you can often choose a larger stone, a higher clarity or colour grade, or a more elaborate setting within the same budget. Natural diamonds carry a premium tied to their rarity and origin. Neither is "better"; it depends on what matters most to you.
Value and resale
Diamonds are bought to be worn and treasured, not traded — so we'd never frame either type as an investment. It's worth knowing that resale values differ and depend on the market at the time; natural diamonds have a longer resale track record, while lab-grown pricing continues to evolve. What stays constant with us is that the stone is set in solid gold and the metal, where it qualifies, is UK hallmarked.
Origin and personal preference
For many people the choice is personal. Some prefer a lab-grown diamond for its traceable, laboratory-based origin and the extra size their budget allows; others value the rarity and natural story of a stone formed in the earth. Both are genuine diamonds — the right choice is simply the one that feels right to you. We're always happy to talk it through, with no pressure either way.
Which should you choose?
Because every Majestic piece is made to order, you can choose either type of diamond in the setting and gold carat you prefer. Message our team and we'll help you compare options for your budget.
Set in solid gold, made to order
Whichever diamond you choose, we set it in solid 9ct, 14ct or 18ct gold and make the piece to your specification. Qualifying pieces are UK hallmarked under the Hallmarking Act 1973. New to gold carats? See our 9ct vs 14ct vs 18ct gold guide, or if you're choosing a band too, our wedding ring buying guide. Trade buyer? See our lab-grown diamond supply for retailers.
Frequently asked questions
Are lab-grown diamonds real diamonds?
Yes. They are the same material as natural diamonds — pure crystallised carbon with the same hardness and sparkle. They are not simulants like cubic zirconia or moissanite.
Can you tell a lab-grown diamond apart from a natural one?
Not by eye — they look identical. The difference is confirmed by specialist laboratory equipment, and a grading report will state the origin.
Are lab-grown diamonds cheaper?
Usually yes, for the same size and quality — which can let you choose a larger stone or a higher grade within your budget. Natural diamonds carry a rarity premium.
Do lab-grown diamonds get certified?
Yes. They are graded on the same 4Cs by laboratories such as IGI, GIA or HRD. Where a piece has a certified centre stone, it comes with independent grading.
Which holds its value better?
Resale values differ and depend on the market; natural diamonds have a longer resale track record, while lab-grown pricing continues to evolve. We'd never frame either as an investment — a diamond is bought to be worn and enjoyed.
Can I choose either in a made-to-order ring?
Yes. We set both lab-grown and natural diamonds in solid 9ct, 14ct or 18ct gold, made to your specification.