Earth Mined vs Lab Grown Diamonds: What’s the Difference?

First Things First: Are Lab Grown Diamonds Real Diamonds?

Yes. Full stop. Lab grown diamonds are chemically, physically, and optically identical to earth mined diamonds. They’re made of pure carbon, they score a 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, and they have the same sparkle, the same fire, and the same brilliance. The only difference is where they were created.

Earth mined diamonds form deep within the Earth over billions of years under extreme heat and pressure. Lab grown diamonds replicate that exact process: just in a controlled environment, in a fraction of the time.

How Are Lab Grown Diamonds Made?

There are two main methods used to grow diamonds in a lab:

• HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature): Mimics the natural conditions deep inside the Earth.
• CVD (Chemical Vapour Deposition): Uses a carbon-rich gas to grow diamond crystals layer by layer.

Both result in a genuine diamond that is graded using the same 4Cs: cut, colour, clarity, and carat, by the same respected labs (GIA, IGI) as natural diamonds.

The Price Difference: What to Expect

This is where things get interesting. Lab grown diamonds typically cost 50–80% less than their earth mined equivalents of the same size and quality. That means you could get a stunning 2ct lab grown diamond for roughly the same price as a 1ct natural stone.

It’s worth knowing that lab grown diamonds have decreased in value over time as production has become more efficient. Earth mined diamonds, while not guaranteed to appreciate, have historically held their value better. If resale value matters to you, this is worth factoring in.

The Ethical and Environmental Side

Many of our customers choose lab grown diamonds because of the ethical peace of mind they offer. No mining means no land disruption, no risk of conflict sourcing, and a significantly smaller environmental footprint.

That said, the natural diamond industry has made huge strides. The Kimberley Process was introduced to prevent conflict diamonds from entering the market, and many mining operations today meet strict environmental and social responsibility standards. At Harmony Jewels, all our earth mined diamonds are ethically sourced and fully traceable.

Neither choice is ‘wrong’: it’s about what matters most to you.

Do They Look Different?

No, not to the naked eye, and not even to most jewellers. Both types of diamond reflect light identically and have the same visual characteristics. The only way to distinguish them is with specialist equipment, which is why reputable labs certify each stone with a report clearly identifying its origin.

All our diamonds, mined and lab grown, come with a full certification so you always know exactly what you’re getting.

So, Which One Should You Choose?

Here’s a simple way to think about it:

• Choose a lab grown diamond if: you want maximum size and quality for your budget, or if ethical and environmental considerations are a priority.
• Choose an earth mined diamond if: the natural origin and rarity of the stone is meaningful to you, or if long-term value retention is important.

Both are beautiful. Both are real. And both will make for a ring you’ll treasure forever.

Still not sure which is right for you?

We love this conversation. Book a free private consultation with our team and we’ll walk you through both options side by side, help you understand the 4Cs, and find the perfect diamond for your ring and your budget.