Diamond Education
Natural vs. Lab-Grown Diamonds
Both are real diamonds. Both are beautiful. Here is what you need to know to make the right choice for you.
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Same chemical composition: pure carbon
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Same hardness: 10 on the Mohs scale
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Same brilliance and optical properties
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Graded by the same 4Cs
Side by Side
The differences are real, but they may not be what you expect.
Natural Diamond
- Origin Formed deep within the Earth over billions of years
- Rarity Finite supply, with each stone truly one of a kind
- Price Higher cost due to rarity and mining
- Resale Value Historically retains value better over time
- Certification GIA, AGS, and other lab grading available
- Inclusions Natural birthmarks unique to each stone
- Sentiment Billions of years in the making, a true geological miracle
VS
Lab-Grown Diamond
- Origin Grown in a controlled lab environment using advanced technology
- Rarity Can be produced on demand, making it more widely available
- Price Typically 50–70% less than a comparable natural diamond
- Resale Value Still evolving, since the resale market is newer and less established
- Certification GIA and IGI grading available, with the same standards applied
- Inclusions Can occur, since lab-grown diamonds are not automatically flawless
- Sentiment A modern choice that is accessible, ethical, and strikingly beautiful
How Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Made?
There are two primary methods used to grow diamonds in a laboratory, and both produce real, certified diamonds.
01
HPHT
High Pressure High Temperature
This method replicates the extreme conditions found deep within the Earth. A diamond seed is placed in carbon, then subjected to intense pressure and heat, mimicking the natural formation process, just on a much faster timeline.
02
CVD
Chemical Vapor Deposition
A diamond seed is placed in a chamber filled with carbon-rich gases. The gases are ionized, causing carbon atoms to attach to the seed layer by layer, growing a diamond from the molecular level up over several weeks.
Both Are Graded by the Same 4Cs
Whether natural or lab-grown, every diamond we sell is evaluated by the same internationally recognized standards. When you shop at McGee & Company, our graduate gemologist is here to walk you through every detail.
Book a ConsultationC
Cut
Determines how light moves through the diamond. The cut grade is the biggest driver of brilliance.
C
Color
Graded D (colorless) to Z (light yellow). Most engagement rings use diamonds in the D–J range.
C
Clarity
Measures internal inclusions and surface blemishes. Both natural and lab-grown diamonds can have inclusions.
C
Carat
The weight of the diamond. Lab-grown diamonds allow you to buy more carat weight for your budget.
Common Questions
Straight answers from a jeweler who has been doing this since 1988.
Can you tell the difference between a natural and lab-grown diamond?
No, not with the naked eye, and not even with most standard jeweler's tools. The only way to reliably distinguish a lab-grown diamond from a natural one is with specialized equipment. They look identical because they are chemically and physically the same material.
Are lab-grown diamonds real diamonds?
Yes. The FTC has confirmed that lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds. They share the same chemical composition (pure carbon), the same crystal structure, the same hardness, and the same optical properties as mined diamonds. The only difference is how they were formed.
Do lab-grown diamonds hold their value?
This is a nuanced question. Natural diamonds have a longer track record as a store of value. Lab-grown diamond prices have decreased significantly in recent years as production has scaled, which affects resale value. If long-term value retention is important to you, natural may be the better choice. If budget and size are your priorities, lab-grown offers significant advantages.
Which should I choose for an engagement ring?
There is no universally right answer. Some couples love the geological story of a natural diamond, billions of years in the making. Others prefer the value of a lab-grown diamond that lets them invest in a larger, higher-quality stone. Come in and talk to our team. We will help you find what feels right for your situation, without any pressure.
Are lab-grown diamonds more ethical or sustainable?
Lab-grown diamonds do avoid traditional mining, but the energy required to produce them is significant. Many natural diamonds today are sourced through Kimberley Process-certified channels, which aim to prevent conflict diamonds from entering the market. Both options have environmental and ethical considerations. We are happy to discuss sourcing in detail when you visit our Greenwood showroom.
Does McGee & Company carry both?
Yes. We carry both natural and lab-grown diamonds and we do not push one over the other. Our graduate gemologist will help you understand the differences, compare options side by side, and find the diamond that fits your priorities and your budget.
Still Have Questions?
Our graduate gemologist has been helping Greenwood and Johnson County shoppers make confident diamond decisions since 1988. Come in, bring your questions, and leave with clarity.