LAB-GROWN VS. NATURAL DIAMONDS

 

For a more in-depth treatment explaining why these differences exist between natural diamonds and lab-grown diamonds click here and read pages 14-22.

 

The Pros and Cons of Buying Natural Diamonds 

The Pros:

  • Over the last 35 years diamonds have grown in value about 3% every year.
  • This ability to retain and appreciate in value is due to the natural scarcity of gem-quality diamonds. This scarcity will only increase in the future, as the output of existing mines decreases and the number of new productive mines continues to decrease.
  • There is something magical about owning something that is 1-3 billion years old.

 The Cons:

  • Due to what you learned about natural diamond mining, natural diamonds are more expensive than lab-grown diamonds. You will not be able to buy as large a pair of diamond studs if you go the natural diamond route.
  • Also, you will not be able to buy diamonds with the same color, clarity and cut-grade as you could buy lab-grown diamonds to fit your budget.
  • You will need to decide if your partner would be happy with a lab-grown diamond studs or puts great value on having natural diamonds. Some women want only natural diamonds—however some would prefer lab-grown—or have no preference.

 

The Pros and Cons of Buying Lab-Grown Diamonds

The Pros:

  • Lab-grown diamonds are much less expensive than natural diamonds (see chart on next page)
  • For the same amount of money, you will be able to get her a much bigger pair of diamond studs, as well as an upgrade the color and clarity.
  • If the lab-grown diamonds are made with 100% renewable energy they may be more sustainable.

The Cons:

  • Since lab-grown diamonds are produced there is no limit to number of diamonds that can be made. Improved technology and competition have historically caused prices to decline.
  • Industry analysis has shown that the price of lab-grown diamonds from 2016 to 2022 has dropped 70%.
  • There is no resale value to lab-grown diamonds due to market volatility.
  • Feel out whether your partner would be happy with lab-grown diamonds, as opposed to natural diamonds. Some women want only natural diamonds—however some would prefer lab-grown—or have no preference.

Whether you choose to buy natural or lab-grown will be based on several factors.  There certainly is no right or wrong choice.