Natural vs Lab-Created Diamonds

Is there a difference between diamonds created by nature and those created by man? Well, that’s what we’re here to uncover. The vast difference is in just that, their creation. Natural diamonds are created naturally in the earth’s core by thousands of years of extreme pressure and high temperatures pressed upon carbon atoms to form the world’s hardest mineral, the diamond. Diamonds were then only pushed to the earth’s surface by volcanic activity. This phenomenon, which has been going on for millions of years, makes natural diamonds extremely rare and, therefore, very valuable.

Recently, man has harnessed this creative prowess and developed a way to emulate this process in a lab to create diamonds, either from carbon atoms themselves or by using a slice of an existing diamond, natural or lab-grown, called a seed. First used to create diamonds for industrial and commercial use, this process has been perfected to create gem-quality stones that are nearly indistinguishable from their natural counterparts. However, because lab-grown diamonds can be created in a matter of days instead of decades, their rarity and value shrink in comparison to that of natural diamonds. These two distinct characteristics make lab-grown diamonds an attractive alternative to someone who may be unable or unprepared to afford a natural diamond.

Because natural diamonds have quite literally been around since the beginning of time, it is clear that they can and will maintain their appeal and value. They are the hardest naturally-occurring material found on Earth and one of the most sought-after. However, since lab-grown diamonds are only recently growing in availability and popularity due to their availability and affordability, it is yet to be determined if they will stand the test of time.

Natural diamonds are typically purchased as investments or heirlooms, while we are finding that lab-created diamonds are being bought to start your fine jewelry collection or to own a piece that offers the look and feel of diamond jewelry without the price tag that can sometimes go along with that.

Pav & Broome Fine Jewelry has long been the Coast’s diamond source, and we have extended our selection to include lab-grown diamonds. Let us help you determine which diamond is the right choice for you. We also offer a Lifetime Diamond Upgrade Program that allows customers to upgrade their natural diamonds at any time for only the difference in cost. This program is for natural diamonds only and does not include lab-grown diamonds of any size. Click here for more details.