The formation of natural diamonds takes billions of years deep beneath the Earth’s surface under extreme heat and pressure. In contrast, lab-created diamonds are formed in a controlled environment using advanced technology replicating the same natural conditions. Chemically and physically, lab diamonds are nearly identical to their natural counterparts, as both are composed of pure carbon and have the same optical and physical properties. The differences in the stone’s formation do not affect their beauty or durability, making it nearly impossible to distinguish between them with the naked eye. For most people, both types of diamonds look and perform the same.

Even diamond experts and those in the trade can have difficulty telling the difference between a lab-created and natural diamond without specialized equipment. Lab and natural diamonds are graded using the same system, focusing on the 4Cs—cut, clarity, color, and carat weight. Both types can achieve the highest grades, and the quality of lab diamonds is often on par with the best natural diamonds. However, professional appraisers can use advanced tools, such as spectroscopy, to determine if a diamond is lab-grown by detecting slight differences in growth patterns. Even with decades of experience, it’s not something a jeweller can confirm by sight alone.

The main difference between lab-created and natural diamonds comes down to price, with lab diamonds generally being more affordable. For customers looking for the same sparkle, durability, and beauty, lab diamonds provide excellent value without compromising quality. Jeff Walters Jewellers can help you explore both options, ensuring you find the perfect diamond no matter your preference or budget, with expert advice every step of the way.