top of page

Natural Diamonds VS Lab-Grown Diamonds

For several years, when I sell diamonds for a creation or a replacement, I offer customers the option of purchasing a synthetic diamond. Almost every time, the spontaneous answer is “NO! I want a REAL diamond ”. Then, as soon as I take the time to explain the differences, more than one in two people choose this option. So, what motivates this choice?

​

Is the Lab-Grown Diamond a Clone?

Scientifically, the only thing that distinguishes a synthetic diamond from a natural diamond is its formation: the first was man-made and the second was created by nature.  

 

Natural diamonds were created in the heart of the earth, under extreme pressure in the earth's mantle, and took 1 to 3 billion years to form. They then rise to the earth's surface during volcanic eruptions. Their story is impressive to say the least, not to mention that it is the hardest natural material in the world.

 

Synthetic diamonds are manufactured in laboratory. Under precisely controlled conditions, the pressure and extreme context necessary for the birth of diamonds are reproduced. The diamonds obtained are made of carbon, in cubic form. We can say that it is real diamond and use this term to name them.  

​

Fine ring evaluation
yellow gold, white gold and lab-grown diamonds

Lab Diamonds are Real Diamonds

Don't think man-made diamonds are FAKE because they ARE diamonds. They have the same characteristics and physical properties as natural diamonds and they are virtually undetectable to the naked eye. In fact, even under a microscope, they are difficult to recognize; sometimes, only certain gemological laboratories manage to differentiate them. When selling, it must be mentioned whether they are natural or made in a laboratory. We often find the mention LG (for Lab-Grown ), to identify them.

​

Diamonds are Forever

Whether at the time of purchase, in 5 years or in 50 years, you will never see the difference between a natural or synthetic diamond. Both types of diamonds have the same hardness, the same durability, the same brilliance, they refract light in the same way, in short... they are the same!  

​

The Ecological and Ethical Footprint

On the environmental side, the impact of natural diamonds is not negligible. It takes about 1 ton of earth to produce half a carat of diamond. It seems that "blood diamonds" from unethical mines are a thing of the past, although this remains difficult to guarantee.

 

Unlike natural diamonds, lab-grown diamonds don't leave giant craters behind. However, they require a large source of energy to be designed, namely extreme heat, equivalent to that of the surface of the sun. Despite everything, they have a much lower environmental impact, which is why they are considered eco-responsible. They are also called ethical diamonds since the working conditions in the laboratories are better than those of some natural mines.

​

Value

Natural and synthetic diamonds are classified according to the 4 Cs: Color, Clarity, Cut and Carat. This is what determines the price of each diamond. That said, lab-grown diamonds are generally 30 % to 50 % cheaper than their natural counterpart.  

​

At MCDécarie, most of our models are offered with synthetic diamonds, but it is always possible to opt for natural diamonds. For a custom jewel, we can compare options and prices. The difference can range from a few hundred to thousands of dollars. In many cases, the choice of synthetic allows you to have a larger diamond, with better clarity, while respecting the same budget. 

Diamond_edited.jpg

Make your Choice

There is something romantic about the natural diamond, there is no denying it. Carrying a stone that took billions of years to form in the center of the earth, then erupt with lava and be collected near the surface of the earth is no small thing! When we compare this gem to others, we understand why it is the most sought after and the most desired in the world. The natural formation of these brilliant, hard and durable stones is almost a miracle. Natural diamonds, because of their rarity and the unique energy they give off, retain more value over time.  

 

If the synthetic diamond has a slightly less flamboyant history, it nevertheless shines with the glimmers of the scientific exploit represented by its creation in the laboratory. The fact remains that many are those who choose the diamond created in the laboratory for ethical and ecological reasons. The diamond then exhibits the same eternal brilliance, without the environmental impact of natural diamond mining, at a more affordable price.

​

 

Do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions on the subject.

bottom of page