Lab-Grown vs Natural Diamonds: What You Really Need to Know Before Buying an Engagement Ring

Choosing a diamond is a big deal. Whether you’re planning a surprise proposal or designing your ring together, the first question you’ll likely run into is this:

Lab-grown or natural?

They might look the same, but there are a few key differences that could shape your decision - especially when it comes to budget, values, and what the ring means to you.

Here’s an honest breakdown of lab-grown diamonds vs natural diamonds, so you can feel confident you’re making the right call for you.

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1. What’s the actual difference?

Natural diamonds are formed deep within the earth over billions of years.

Lab-grown diamonds are created in a lab using high heat and pressure - in weeks.

Here’s the kicker:

Chemically, physically, and visually, they’re the same. Even a jeweller with a loupe can’t tell the difference without special equipment.

✔ Both are “real” diamonds

✔ Both are graded the same (cut, clarity, colour, carat)

✔ Both sparkle the same way

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2. Sustainability: Lab wins.... by a mile

Natural diamonds come with a serious environmental cost.

We’re talking deep-earth mining, land displacement, high water use, and a long history of questionable sourcing practices.

Lab-grown diamonds, especially when created with renewable energy, are far more sustainable.

	Natural Diamond	Lab Diamond
Mining	Required	None
Water Use	High	Low
Carbon Emissions	High	Can be neutral
Ethical Sourcing Guaranteed?	Not always	Yes, if certified

If you’re buying a ring to symbolise love, many couples feel better knowing their stone didn’t come at the expense of the planet or people.

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3. Price: Lab gives you more for less

Lab diamonds cost 30–60% less than natural diamonds of the same size and quality.

That means you can:

→ Afford a larger or better-quality stone

→ Put more of your budget toward a custom design

→ Save for something else (honeymoon, home, whatever matters to you)

This isn’t a “cheaper knockoff.” It’s the same diamond - without the inflated price tag that comes from rarity and legacy supply chains.

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4. Longevity: They both last forever

You’ve probably heard “lab diamonds don’t last” or “they’re not forever.” That’s false.

Lab-grown diamonds are just as durable as natural diamonds.

They rate 10 on the Mohs hardness scale - the highest possible.

That means they won’t scratch, cloud, or dull over time.

Yes, even decades from now.

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5. Meaning: This part is personal

Some people love the idea of wearing a billion-year-old stone. There’s romance in that history.

Others feel more connected to the values and intention behind a lab diamond - knowing exactly where it came from, and that it didn’t harm the earth to exist.

There’s no wrong answer here. The right ring is the one that reflects who you are and what you believe in.

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So… which one is right for you?

At Neij, we offer both lab-grown and natural diamonds, and we’re always upfront about where each comes from.

But if you:

• Care about sustainability

• Want better value for your budget

• Prefer modern over traditional

• Love the idea of crafting a ring that’s ethical from the inside out

…then a lab diamond might just be the better fit.

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Want to explore our diamond collection?

From custom designs to ready-to-ship pieces, we make it easy to choose a ring that feels like you - inside and out.

Explore our diamond options →