Everything You Need to Know About Natural Diamonds vs. Lab Grown

Choosing the perfect diamond for your next adornment is a journey that marries tradition with innovation. At Wilson & Son Jewelers in Scarsdale, New York, we understand the allure and significance of this timeless gemstone. Whether you're drawn to the natural beauty of diamonds forged over billions of years, or the modern marvels of lab-grown brilliance, knowing the differences between the two is essential when selecting diamonds for your next piece. Both options offer unique benefits and stunning elegance, but how do you decide which is right for you? Join us as we explore the world of natural and lab-grown diamonds, ensuring you make an informed, luxurious choice that reflects your personal style and values.

What Creates a Natural Diamond?

Natural diamonds are marvels of nature, formed over billions of years under intense heat and pressure deep within the Earth's mantle. These exquisite gems are brought to the surface through volcanic eruptions, making each one a unique testament to nature’s bounty. Once in human hands, a diamond’s quality is determined by metrics known as the 4 C's: cut, color, clarity, and carat weight.

The cut refers to how well the diamond's facets interact with light and enhance its brilliance. Color grades the absence of color in a diamond, with the most valuable diamonds being completely colorless. Clarity measures the presence of internal or external imperfections, and  carat weight indicates the size of the diamond. Together, these qualities create the striking beauty and mesmerizing sparkle that have made diamonds beloved adornments for centuries, symbolizing enduring love and sophistication.

How Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Made?

Lab-grown diamonds, also known as synthetic diamonds, are created using advanced technological processes that replicate the natural conditions under which diamonds form in the Earth's mantle. These processes, such as High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD), produce diamonds that are chemically, physically, and optically identical to their natural counterparts.

For environmentally and ethically conscious shoppers, or simply those on a tighter budget, lab-grown diamonds are an excellent choice. They require fewer natural resources and have a significantly lower environmental impact compared to traditional diamond mining. Moreover, they offer a more transparent supply chain, and are free from the ethical concerns often associated with mined diamonds. With the same brilliance, clarity, and durability as natural diamonds, lab-grown diamonds provide a responsible and sustainable alternative without compromising on beauty or quality.

Natural vs. Lab-Grown Diamonds: Which to Choose?

Both natural and lab-grown diamonds offer unique advantages that cater to different preferences. Natural diamonds, with their billions-year-old history, hold a timeless allure and are often seen as rare treasures of the Earth. They are valued for their storied origins and natural beauty. On the other hand, lab-grown diamonds provide an eco-friendly and ethically sound option, often at a more accessible price point. They also possess the same physical properties and stunning brilliance as natural diamonds, and are physically indistinguishable from their natural counterparts. Ultimately, there is no one "right" diamond choice for every shopper— for yourself, always select what resonates most with your personal values and aesthetic preferences.

Discover Beautiful Diamond Jewelry at Wilson & Son Jewelers

Whether you prefer natural diamonds or their lab-grown counterparts, discover stunning diamond jewelry at Wilson & Son Jewelers. For over 100 years, we’ve proudly offered an impressive selection of fine jewelry for every discerning taste and engagement rings for every love story. Explore our selection of diamond jewelry at our showroom in Scarsdale, New York, or for a more personalized experience, request an appointment with a member of our expert staff. We are knowledgeable in every facet of diamond jewelry and can help you select the best natural or lab-grown diamonds for your personal style and budget.