Lab-grown diamonds are popping up everywhere lately: in engagement rings, Instagram ads, and jewellery displays. They promise lower prices, ethical origins, and high gradings. So, what’s the catch? What's the difference between lab-grown and natural diamonds?
Are they a smart choice for you — or just a trend that might not stand the test of time?
Let’s take a deeper look at what makes lab-grown diamonds such a hot topic right now, and why recent changes from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) make expert guidance more important than ever.
What Exactly Is a Lab-Grown Diamond?
First, it’s important to note that lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds. They're not imitations like cubic zirconia or moissanite — they’re chemically and structurally equal to natural diamonds.
Lab-grown diamonds are created using high-tech processes that mimic how diamonds form underground, just inside a lab — and much faster!
The result? A diamond that looks and sparkles like one from the earth, but with a different origin. And that origin can have a big impact on value, rarity, perception, and resale.
Why Lab-Grown Diamonds Spark So Much Debate
💎 1. Rarity & Emotional Value
One of the biggest differences between lab-grown and natural diamonds is rarity — and it’s a detail no certificate or price tag can truly capture.
Natural diamonds are formed over many years under intense heat and pressure deep within the Earth. Each one is a unique, rare, natural wonder, and its specific characteristics cannot be replicated, giving them the uniqueness and symbolic value many people look for in a forever piece.
Most lab-grown diamonds are Type IIa, meaning they contain little to no nitrogen impurities. In contrast, only 1–2% of natural diamonds fall into this category — making naturally pure diamonds exceptionally rare. Lab-grown diamonds, while beautiful, can be produced in large volumes in just a few weeks. As the technology has advanced, they’ve become more accessible, but also less rare, and for some, less meaningful.
If you’re celebrating something once-in-a-lifetime — like an engagement, anniversary, or the birth of a child — it’s worth asking yourself: are lab-grown diamonds the right fit for an heirloom piece?
💸 2. Price vs. Long-Term Value
No question, lab-grown diamonds win on price. You can often get significantly more carat weight and a higher quality for your money. But, what’s great for your wallet today might not be ideal in the long run.
The lab-grown market, with respect to pricing, has dropped significantly since its peak between 2021 and 2023. The market remains volatile, and the long-term forecast for resale and investment remains unpredictable. Natural diamonds have also seen some shifts, but they have held their value more reliably over time.
Bottom line?
If you're looking for maximum sparkle without the big price tag, lab-grown diamonds are a great option. If you're viewing your diamond as a long-term investment, natural is the safer bet.
🌱 3. Ethically Sourced
“Ethically sourced” is certainly the buzzword when it comes to lab-grown diamonds. But what does it really mean?
By definition, ethically sourced means that a product — such as a diamond — has been obtained in a way that respects human rights, ensures safe and fair labour practices, minimizes environmental harm, and supports responsible business practices throughout the supply chain.
It’s important to note that this entire topic hinges on the honesty and transparency of said supply chain — on both the lab-grown and natural diamond sides. While lab-grown diamonds avoid many of the labour concerns that can be associated with mined diamonds, it has yet to be definitively proven how environmentally friendly they truly are.
Although mining has a larger environmental impact overall, the industry has made efforts to reduce water and energy usage, adopt more sustainable mining practices, and rehabilitate land after mining is complete. Additionally, natural diamond mining companies often contribute significantly to the communities they operate in — providing not only jobs, but also vital infrastructure such as schools, healthcare facilities, and clean water access.
🧾 4. GIA’s New Grading System
All diamonds — natural and lab-grown — are graded using the 4 Cs: Colour, Clarity, Cut, and Carat. This standard was created by GIA, the world’s leading diamond grading authority, and has been in place since 1953.
But things are changing for lab-grown diamonds.
Later this year, GIA will adopt a simplified grading system for lab-grown diamonds. While still sorted using the same factors as the 4 Cs, lab-grown diamonds will not receive detailed grading reports. Instead, lab-grown diamonds will now be placed into just two categories: Premium and Standard.
Why the change?
GIA reports that over 95% of lab-grown diamonds fall into a very narrow range of colour and clarity, making full reports unnecessary.
Pros & Cons of Lab-Grown Diamonds vs. Natural Mined Diamonds
Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:
✔️ Pros | ⚠️ Cons
More affordable | Lower resale value
Ethically sourced* | Market is saturated — not rare
Visually identical to natural | Prices continue to decline
Certified by GIA and IGI | New grading changes can be confusing
*All diamonds at European Goldsmith are ethically sourced.
So, What’s Right for You?
We know choosing a diamond is a big decision, and it should feel exciting — not overwhelming. That’s why our Kelowna team is here to guide you every step of the way with honest advice and friendly service.
Still searching for “lab-grown diamonds near me”? Visit us at European Goldsmith and see why we are the Okanagan’s jewellery destination. Shopping for diamonds of any variety online can be daunting. It can be helpful to see diamonds in person, in real-life lighting, and even compare lab-grown and natural side by side. Our expert team of trained jewellery consultants can help you understand exactly what you’re buying so you can shop with total confidence.
Whether it’s for an engagement, an anniversary, or a “just because” moment, we’ll help you find the perfect diamond for you.
✨ Ready to chat? Call us today or drop by for a free consultation — no pressure.
We’d love to meet you.
