Lab-Grown vs Natural Diamond – What’s the Difference?

Diamonds have long been a symbol of love and commitment, but with the rise of lab-grown diamonds, more couples are considering this modern alternative. Whether you're shopping for an engagement ring or fine jewellery, you might be wondering: What’s the difference between lab-grown and natural diamonds?

Visually and structurally, lab-grown and natural diamonds are identical, making it nearly impossible to tell them apart with the naked eye — even for gemologists. But beyond appearance, key factors such as formation process, price, sustainability, and rarity set them apart.

If you’re torn between these two dazzling options, read on as we break down the differences to help you make an informed choice.

What Are Lab-Grown Diamonds?

Lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds created in a controlled environment using advanced technology. Unlike diamond simulants like cubic zirconia or moissanite, lab-grown diamonds have the same chemical composition, crystal structure, and brilliance as mined diamonds.

How Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Made?

Two primary methods are used to create lab-grown diamonds:

1. High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) – This process mimics the Earth's natural conditions, using intense heat and pressure to form diamonds from carbon.
2. Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) – A newer method that grows diamonds layer by layer from a carbon-rich gas, producing high-purity Type IIa diamonds — one of the purest forms of diamond.

Despite their different origins, both lab-grown and natural diamonds are chemically identical, making them indistinguishable without specialised gemological equipment.

Lab-Grown vs Natural Diamonds: What Sets Them Apart

Lab-grown diamonds and natural diamonds may look identical to the naked eye, but their differences lie in how they’re made, priced, and valued over time. Here's a closer look at how they compare:

1. Formation Process
   Natural diamonds are formed over billions of years under intense heat and pressure deep within the Earth. In contrast, lab-grown diamonds are created using advanced technology — either High-Pressure High-Temperature (HPHT) or Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD) — replicating the same process in a matter of weeks.

2. Price & Accessibility
   Lab-grown diamonds can cost only a fraction of natural diamonds with the same size and quality. This means you can enjoy a larger carat or reallocate your budget toward other priorities like a honeymoon or home, making lab-grown diamonds a practical yet luxurious choice.

3. Sustainability & Ethical Considerations
   Lab-grown diamonds are created in controlled environments, avoiding the social and environmental concerns linked to traditional diamond mining. For couples seeking ethical, conflict-free jewellery with a lighter carbon footprint, lab-grown diamonds offer peace of mind.

Why Choose LVC’s Lab-Grown Diamonds?

At Love & Co., we go beyond simply offering lab-grown diamonds — we curate pieces that embody exceptional quality, craftsmanship, and meaning. Our LVC Precieux collection features CVD-grown Type IIa diamonds, known for their remarkable purity and brilliance. These diamonds are among the rarest and most pristine, often falling within the top 2% of all diamonds globally.

Another curated selection worth exploring is the LVC Say Love Diamond. This patented masterpiece blends the brilliance of a round diamond with the romance of a heart. Precisely crafted, each facet reveals a heart at both the pavilion and table, making it not only sustainable and pristine but also a timeless symbol of love and meaning.

Each diamond is handpicked and expertly cut by master craftsmen to achieve maximum sparkle, meeting stringent standards in cut, clarity, and symmetry. Whether you're searching for an engagement ring, wedding band, or a meaningful jewellery gift, LVC lab-grown diamonds are a modern, responsible choice — without compromising on beauty or sentiment. 

Final Thoughts: Which Diamond Is Right for You?

 Choosing between lab-grown vs natural diamonds comes down to personal preference, budget, and values.

If you value rarity and long-term investment, a natural diamond may just be the ideal pick for you.

If you’re looking for an affordable, ethical, and equally stunning option, lab-grown diamonds offer exceptional value.

Still weighing your options? Visit Love & Co. boutiques for personalized advice from our experts, explore our range of lab-grown diamonds online, or bring your vision to life with a custom diamond ring that reflects your love story. 

Not sure where to start? Consider these standout designs from our LVC Precieux collection:

• LVC Precieux Noeud Diamond Ring – A classic solitaire resting on a delicate rose gold knot, symbolising the unbreakable bond between two hearts.
• LVC Precieux Love Journey Diamond Ring – Featuring a central solitaire to reflect that she is your one and only, this dreamy design celebrates your unique love story.
• LVC Precieux Armor Heart Diamond Ring – A heart-shaped silhouette traced in diamonds, perfect for the hopeless romantic who wants her love to shine.

Let your diamond tell your story — beautifully and meaningfully.