Lab-Grown Diamonds vs Mined Diamonds for Engagement Rings

A diamond engagement ring often starts the journey for a couple. An increasingly common question is whether the ring is going to be a lab-grown or a mined (natural) diamond engagement ring. The diamond you choose will depend on a variety of factors, and you will find jewelry shops offering both lab-grown or mined diamonds that can be set into your engagement ring.

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What is a lab-grown diamond?

Lab-grown diamonds have been around for a very long time, but they are somewhat new in the jewelry market. Both lab-grown and mined diamonds have the same chemical makeup. The difference is in the origin: a mined diamond comes from the ground, whereas a lab-grown diamond is developed in a laboratory. The latter is created in a controlled environment.

There are two different methods used to make the lab-grown diamond appear exactly like a mined diamond. These methods are known as Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) or High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT).  A lab-grown diamond has the same physical attributes the mined diamond. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and the International Gemological Institute (IGI) will certify a lab-grown diamond offering credentials on the diamond. You may want to confirm your lab-grown engagement ring choice with this type of report.

Experts do agree on 2 key points about lab-grown diamonds:

1. They can be more cost-effective.
2. Lab-grown is environmentally friendly.

The Mohs hardness scale is an industry-known test for precious gemstones. Both types of diamonds test at the highest level of hardness on the 1-10 scale. Even experts reveal they cannot tell the difference between the two types of diamonds with the naked eye. That is one reason for the popularity and trend of lab-grown diamonds.

The last two factors in comparing lab-grown versus mind diamonds are the environment and energy. In general, the environment is more impacted by mining diamonds. However, the process of creating lab diamonds does generate an enormous amount of energy use.

What about the crystal structure itself? Lab-grown diamonds replicate the crystal-like structure of a mined diamond. Your grading report on the diamond will include the carat weight, color, clarity and cut. These are the credentials of your diamond and give you Peace of Mind that you know the quality is what you expected.

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Lab-grown diamonds vs mined diamonds for engagement rings: cost and appearance

A lab-grown diamond is likely to cost 20-50% less than a mined diamond. Before the purchase of either diamond type remember to obtain the grading report. That report shares the details, so you can confirm your purchase meets everyone’s expectations. It is also documentation that is likely needed for insurance.

The appearance of your diamond should look the same to the naked eye no matter which type you choose. Both diamond types will pass the test as real diamonds under examination by industry expert gemologists. The Mohs hardness test will confirm both diamonds are the hardest gemstone known in the precious gemstone family.

If you are considering your purchase for future resale, a mined diamond is likely to carry a higher long-term value in the market. A mined diamond has a rarity quality. The mined diamond can be perceived as a one-of-a-kind diamond and command more in the market.

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Should I get my engagement ring insured?

The simple answer is: Yes. We always recommend insuring your engagement ring, regardless of whether it is with natural or lab-grown diamond. It is likely to be one of the most important and largest purchases you or your significant ther ever makes, so it is important that you are protected against loss, theft and damage. You may get a quote for your engagement ring in a few steps with Oyster.