Lab-Grown vs. Natural Diamonds: A Jeweler’s Honest Take
If you’re exploring custom engagement rings or fine jewelry, odds are you’ve come across the lab-grown diamond conversation. It’s a topic worth unpacking because the truth is: both lab-grown and natural diamonds have their place—it just depends on what matters most to you.
So let’s dive into the real differences, not just the marketing spin.
What’s the Actual Difference?
First, let’s clear up the basics:
Natural diamonds are formed over billions of years deep in the earth’s mantle, then mined.
Lab-grown diamonds are created in high-tech labs using either HPHT or CVD processes that simulate how diamonds form in nature.
They’re chemically and optically identical. If one of each were placed in front of you, even trained jewelers would need special tools to tell them apart.
The Pros of Lab-Grown Diamonds
Better Price: You’ll typically save 50% or more on a lab-grown diamond of similar size and quality.
Ethical Sourcing: While natural diamonds can absolutely be sourced responsibly, many buyers feel peace of mind knowing their lab stone didn’t come from the earth.
Sustainability: Lab diamonds often have a smaller environmental footprint, especially when created with renewable energy.
Belmont Tip: If your goal is a larger, dazzling stone within a specific budget—lab-grown is a strong option. You can really get that jaw-dropping look without overspending.
The Pros of Natural Diamonds
Rarity & Resale: Natural diamonds hold rarity, history, and better long-term value. If resale or heirloom potential matters to you, they’re the classic choice.
Tradition: Some clients simply love the symbolism and timeless nature of a stone that’s been in the earth for billions of years.
Perceived Value: There’s still a cultural weight to natural diamonds that lab-grown stones haven’t caught up to.
Belmont Tip: If you're building a future heirloom—or want something with geological significance—a natural diamond still holds unmatched storytelling power.
The Cons (Because Honesty Matters)
Lab-Grown
Depreciates Quickly: Like electronics or cars, lab diamonds drop in resale value fast.
Flooded Market: As technology advances, prices continue to fall, which may affect how “special” your piece feels over time.
*Diamond prices fluctuate daily; this chart is for comparison purposes only. Prices may have changed since this chart was created on 8/13/2025
Natural
Cost: You’ll pay significantly more for an equivalent natural stone.
Origin Transparency: Unless you work with a trusted jeweler, some stones on the market lack traceable sourcing.
Belmont Watches' Experience With Both
At Belmont Watches, we work with both lab-grown and natural diamonds—and we’re GIA-certified, so you get real, expert guidance either way.
Our process is rooted in education and collaboration, not pressure. Whether you want a radiant 2-carat lab-grown or a one-of-a-kind natural heirloom, we’ll walk you through the 4Cs, source stones that meet your vision, and custom design your dream piece.
Which One’s Right for You?
Here's how we typically break it down for clients:
Go Lab-Grown If… Go Natural If…
You want the biggest sparkle for your dollar You want long-term value or a potential heirloom
You’re designing a bold or trendy setting You’re leaning traditional or vintage
Ethical sourcing is your top priority You love the symbolism of geological history
You’re working within a tighter budget You’re investing in a once-in-a-lifetime ring
Have Questions About Diamonds?
We’re here to help. Visit our showroom or contact us here to schedule a consultation.