Difference Between Natural and Synthetic Diamonds
For centuries, diamonds have been a symbol of love, strength, and timelessness. In recent years, a new player has entered the market: the synthetic diamond, also known as a lab-grown diamond. Just as brilliant, just as hard… but sustainably grown in a laboratory.
So, what exactly is the difference between natural and synthetic diamonds? And what should you consider when thinking about purchasing a diamond? In this comprehensive comparison, we place natural and synthetic diamonds side by side across five key aspects: origin, price, advantages, disadvantages, and applications.
Origin: from the earth vs. from the lab
Origin of Natural Diamonds
Natural diamonds were formed deep within the Earth, often more than a billion years ago. Under intense pressure and heat, carbon crystallized into diamond. Volcanic activity brought these stones to the surface. Today, diamond mining takes place in countries like South Africa, Russia, and Canada. Every natural diamond is unique, shaped by nature itself. For many people, this gives them a certain symbolic and financial value.
Origin of Synthetic Diamonds
Synthetic diamonds are “grown” in a laboratory. The process mimics the natural conditions under which diamonds form, but in an accelerated manner. Both HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature) and CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition) produce real diamonds—not imitations or fakes, but with exactly the same chemical and physical properties as a natural diamond. Even a jeweler needs specialized equipment to tell the difference.
Price: affordability vs scarcity
The Price of Natural Diamonds
Because natural diamonds are rarer and mining them is labor-intensive, their prices are often very high. Especially for larger or purer stones, the costs can quickly escalate. Market prices are also influenced by supply and demand, and—importantly—by perception and prestige.
The Price of Synthetic Diamonds
A lab-grown diamond is typically 30 to 50% cheaper than a natural diamond of the same quality. The production process is more controlled, resulting in less waste. This makes synthetic diamonds more accessible to a wider audience, without compromising on beauty or quality.
Advantages of natural versus synthetic diamonds
Advantages of Natural Diamonds
- Natural origin: the idea of wearing a piece of the Earth that is millions of years old.
- Value-retaining investment: natural diamonds generally hold their value better over time.
- Symbolic meaning: many people find it special to own something truly “real” from nature.
Advantages of Synthetic Diamonds
- More sustainable and ethical: no mining, no environmental impact, and full traceability.
- More affordable: you get a larger or purer stone for your money.
- Perfect for custom pieces: memorial diamonds can be made from organic material of a loved one—something not possible with natural stones.
Cons: what are the limitations of different types of diamonds?
Disadvantages of Natural Diamonds
- Potential ethical concerns: some natural diamonds are conflict diamonds, originating from regions where profits fund armed conflicts. Traders try to counter this with certification, but it remains a sensitive issue.
- Environmental impact: diamond mining requires large amounts of energy and can harm ecosystems.
- High price: especially for larger or rarer stones, prices can be significant.
Disadvantages of Synthetic Diamonds
- Lower resale value: the market value of synthetic diamonds is still evolving and is (for now) lower than that of natural diamonds.
- Perception: some people consider lab-grown diamonds less “romantic” or “authentic” (even though they can actually be more p
Decorative versus personalised diamonds
Applications of Natural Diamonds
Natural diamonds are mainly found in classic jewelry such as engagement rings, earrings, and necklaces. They symbolize elegance and timelessness and represent luxury and prestige. Natural diamonds are often given as gifts to mark a milestone or passed down through generations. While they can certainly hold emotional value, in practice they often serve as a showpiece or status symbol.
Applications of Synthetic Diamonds
Synthetic diamonds are chosen not only for their decorative appeal, but also for their personal and symbolic value. Think of a memorial diamond made from the hair or ashes of a loved one. A love diamond that captures a piece of shared history or connection. Or a pet diamond created using organic material from your four-legged friend. In this way, a lab-grown diamond becomes a symbol of connection—even beyond death.
Choosing Between Synthetic and Natural Diamonds
A natural diamond with millions of years of history? Or a synthetic diamond with a deeply personal touch? The choice depends on what matters most to you. Is it about symbolism, sustainability, emotional value, or budget?
For those looking for a personal keepsake of a deceased loved one, a synthetic diamond is often the perfect solution. You quite literally carry a part of your loved one with you, in a gemstone that lasts forever.
Infinity Tree Diamonds, for example, works with hair, ashes, or even a cherished object, transforming it into a diamond that reflects your story. You choose the shape, color, and cut—the emotional meaning is always included. Contact us for more information about all the possibilities.
