LAB GROWN VS MINED DIAMONDS: WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE?

Lab grown diamonds and mined diamonds are both real diamonds. They have the same chemical makeup, the same hardness, and the same sparkle.
The difference is how they’re formed: mined diamonds form naturally in the earth, while lab grown diamonds are created using advanced technology in a controlled environment.

Mined diamonds are also called natural diamonds or earth grown diamonds. Both types are graded using the same standards — the 4Cs: cut, colour, clarity, and carat — so you can compare quality in the same way.

Quick answer: which one should you choose?

Shop lab grown diamonds if you want:

  • More diamond for your budget (bigger carat or higher quality for the same spend)
  • More choice in shapes and specifications
  • A modern option with predictable supply

Shop mined (natural/earth grown) diamonds if you want:

  • A diamond with natural origin and rarity
  • The traditional “natural diamond” story
  • A classic option many people prefer for sentiment

Lab grown diamonds: what they are


A lab grown diamond is created in a lab using methods that replicate natural diamond growth. It is not a diamond simulant like cubic zirconia. It’s a real diamond and can be graded for the 4Cs just like a mined diamond.


Mined (natural/earth grown) diamonds: what they are


A mined diamond forms naturally in the earth over time and is extracted through mining. This is the traditional type of diamond most people think of when choosing an engagement ring.

Key differences: lab grown vs mined diamonds


Appearance: do they look the same?
In everyday wear, they can look identical. Any diamond’s beauty comes down to its 4Cs — especially cut, which has the biggest impact on sparkle.

Sparkle and durability: are they the same?
Yes. Both are diamonds, so they share the same hardness and can deliver the same brilliance. The visible difference, if any, is usually down to cut quality, not origin.

Price: lab grown vs mined
Lab grown diamonds are typically priced lower than mined diamonds. That often means you can:

• Go bigger in carat, or
• Choose a higher cut/colour/clarity for the same budget

Mined diamonds usually cost more because supply is limited and many buyers value the natural origin.

Origin and rarity
This is the emotional difference for many people:

• Mined diamonds are naturally rare and formed in the earth.
• Lab grown diamonds are created on demand in a controlled environment.

Availability and choice
Lab grown diamonds often make it easier to find very specific specs (for example, a particular shape and size with higher colour/clarity). Mined diamonds can offer plenty of choice too, but matching exact specs can be harder — or more expensive.

Resale value: what to expect
Resale value varies for both types. It depends on the stone’s quality, certification, and market demand at the time. The safest approach is to choose a diamond for how it looks and what it means to you, not as a financial investment.

Lab Grown vs Mined Diamonds: Quick Comparison

Lab grown and mined diamonds share the same physical properties, appearance, and durability. The main differences come down to origin, price, and personal preference around rarity and tradition.

Factor Lab Grown Diamonds Mined Diamonds
Looks Can look identical to mined diamonds Can look identical to lab grown diamonds
Hardness Equally durable Equally durable
Sparkle Depends mainly on cut quality Depends mainly on cut quality
Origin Created in a controlled lab environment Formed naturally in the earth
Price Usually lower Usually higher due to natural rarity
Best For Maximising budget and flexibility in specs Natural rarity and traditional appeal

Lab Grown Diamonds

LooksCan look identical to mined diamonds
HardnessEqually durable
SparkleDepends mainly on cut quality
OriginCreated in a controlled lab environment
PriceUsually lower
Best ForMaximising budget and flexibility in specs

Mined Diamonds

LooksCan look identical to lab grown diamonds
HardnessEqually durable
SparkleDepends mainly on cut quality
OriginFormed naturally in the earth
PriceUsually higher due to natural rarity
Best ForNatural rarity and traditional appeal

How to Choose Between Lab Grown and Mined Diamonds

  1. Do you want the biggest diamond look for your budget?
    Lab grown diamonds typically offer larger carat sizes or higher specifications for the same spend.
  2. Do you value natural origin and rarity most?
    Mined (natural/earth grown) diamonds are formed naturally in the earth and are often chosen for their rarity and tradition.
  3. Are you comparing two diamonds?
    Choose the diamond with the better cut and the appearance you love most when worn.

Both lab grown and mined diamonds are real diamonds with identical durability and sparkle. The right choice comes down to budget preference, origin, and personal sentiment.

Continue reading

Engagement Ring Guide

Diamond Buyers Guide

FAQs: Lab Grown vs Earth Grown Diamonds

Yes. Lab grown diamonds are real diamonds with the same physical and chemical properties as mined diamonds.
The difference is origin: lab grown diamonds are made in a lab, while mined diamonds form naturally in the earth.
Yes. In everyday wear they can look identical. Sparkle depends mainly on cut quality.
Usually, yes. Many buyers choose lab grown to get a larger carat size or higher specs for the same budget.
Not reliably. Identifying origin usually needs specialist equipment or lab analysis.
Yes. Because they’re real diamonds, they typically pass standard diamond testers.