Lab Grown vs. Natural Diamonds
Both are real diamonds. Both are beautiful. Understanding the difference helps you make the choice that is right for you. Our AGS-certified team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Natural Diamonds
Natural diamonds are formed deep within the earth over billions of years under intense heat and pressure. No two are exactly alike. Each one carries a rarity and romance that has made diamonds the ultimate symbol of enduring love for generations. When you choose a natural diamond, you are choosing a piece of the earth with a story that began long before you did.
- Formed naturally over billions of years
- Certified and graded by gemological laboratories
- Unique inclusions make every stone one of a kind
- Strong long-term resale and heirloom value
- Available in every shape, size, and quality grade
Lab Grown Diamonds
Lab grown diamonds are created in a controlled environment using the same physical and chemical processes that form natural diamonds. They are optically, physically, and chemically identical to their earth-mined counterparts, certified by the same gemological laboratories, and available at a significantly lower price point. For buyers who want a larger or higher-quality stone without stretching the budget, lab grown diamonds are an exceptional choice.
- Chemically and optically identical to natural diamonds
- Certified by the same gemological laboratories
- Typically 50 to 70 percent less than natural diamond pricing
- Allows for a larger or higher-grade stone at the same budget
- Available in every shape and quality grade
Side by Side: How Do They Compare?
| Feature | Natural Diamond | Lab Grown Diamond |
|---|---|---|
| Chemically Real Diamond | ✓ | ✓ |
| GIA / AGS Certified | ✓ | ✓ |
| Identical Brilliance and Fire | ✓ | ✓ |
| Earth Mined Origin | ✓ | — |
| Lower Price Per Carat | — | ✓ |
| Larger Stone for Same Budget | — | ✓ |
| Natural Rarity and Uniqueness | ✓ | — |
| Long-Term Heirloom Value | ✓ | — |
Not Sure Which Diamond Is Right for You?
Our AGS-certified team at Rinehart Jewelry will walk you through every option with honest, no-pressure guidance. Come in and see both side by side, and let us help you find the diamond that fits your vision and your budget.
Shop Natural Diamonds Shop Lab Grown Diamonds