Lab-Created Diamonds vs. Mined Diamonds: Uncovering the Differences

Diamonds are a timeless symbol of class and style. But many don't realize that now, there are two ways to obtain diamonds — mined and lab-created. 

Lab-created diamonds are made in a laboratory setting using advanced technology, while mined diamonds come from the earth. It's important to consider the differences of each when you're looking to buy a diamond. In this article, we compare lab-created diamonds vs. mined diamonds to help you decide which is the right choice for you. 

Lab-Created Diamonds vs. Mined Diamonds

Lab-created diamonds and mined diamonds are two popular options for buyers when it comes to purchasing a diamond. The debate of which is better has been ongoing for years. Lab-created diamonds are grown under controlled laboratory conditions and have the same chemical and physical properties as their mined counterparts. Mined diamonds, on the other hand, are naturally formed under the pressure of the Earth's crust. Read on to learn about the key differences between the two.

1. Lab-Created Diamonds

Lab-created diamonds are man-made diamond simulants that are grown in a laboratory using advanced technology and special equipment. They are also known as engineered, cultivated, or cultured diamonds. Lab-created diamonds are not to be confused with synthetic diamonds, which are real diamonds but are produced in a laboratory instead of being extracted from the ground.

Lab-created diamonds are produced when a small diamond seed is subjected to extremely high temperatures and high pressure, the same conditions found deep in the earth where mined diamonds are formed. The diamond is grown over a period of weeks using state-of-the-art equipment and highly skilled technicians. When the growth process is complete, the result is a beautiful lab-created diamond that is visually and chemically identical to a mined diamond.

Benefits of Lab-Created Diamonds:

Choosing lab-created diamonds over mined diamonds has many advantages when it comes to cost, ethics, and quality. 

Ethical and environmentally friendly. The production process is also highly environmentally friendly since it does not involve mining and since conflict-free sources are often used for the diamond seed and the growing environment.

Consistent quality. Lab-created diamonds also come in a range of colors, sizes, and shapes, as well as being of consistently high quality. 

Cost. For one, lab-created diamonds are generally cheaper than mined diamonds. A cost comparison between lab-created diamonds and mined diamonds shows that a lab-created diamond will typically be much less expensive than a mined diamond of the same size and quality. 

Note that these are general average costs, and the actual price of a diamond can vary based on various factors such as size, quality, retailer, and market demand. It's important to do your research and compare prices from different sources before making a purchase decision.

According to the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), the price of lab-created diamonds is about 20-30% less than that of mined diamonds. This is because lab-created diamonds can be produced in a controlled environment and do not require the same costs and labor associated with mining and exploration.

The exact cost difference can vary depending on several factors, including the quality and size of the diamond, as well as the retailer or supplier. 

It's important to note that the value of a diamond is not solely based on its cost but also on its unique characteristics, such as cut, clarity, and color. Ultimately, the decision to choose a lab-created or mined diamond should be based on personal preference and budget.

2. Mined Diamonds

Mined diamonds are formed deep underground over millions of years. Diamond miners dig thousands of feet below the earth’s surface in areas known as “pipes” or “fissures” and use large shovels and mining machines to break the diamond-bearing rock away from the surrounding rock. After the ore is collected and taken away to a facility, it is crushed and separated into diamond crystals and other minerals, then it is further evaluated to separate quality stones. The process of extracting mined diamonds is not as efficient nor ecology friendly as lab-created diamonds.

Benefits of Mined Diamonds

Timeless beauty and value. Mined diamond jewelry has been around for centuries with its timeless beauty and value. 

Potential to hold sentimental value as heirloom pieces. As a symbol of unity, connection, and eternity, many people prefer mined diamonds because of their potential to hold sentimental value as heirloom pieces. 

Mined Diamonds are beautiful and classic stones that have been coveted for    centuries in jewelry and often symbolize love and commitment. They are the preferred choice for some, but they do have some drawbacks that one should be aware of before investing in these gems. 

Environmental Impact. Due to how mined diamonds are extracted, there is a large environmental cost associated with them. The process of mining or extracting diamonds involves the use of large amounts of energy and water, which can be damaging to the environment if not done responsibly. Furthermore, the process of mining involves digging up large amounts of land, which can potentially disturb the local ecosystems and lead to deforestation.

High Cost. Mined diamonds are often associated with a high price tag due to their scarcity and the production process required to get them from the earth to the market. The cost of a mined diamond is heavily influenced by the 4C’s: Color, Cut, Carat, and Clarity. Higher-quality diamonds with a higher rating in these categories tend to be more expensive. However, due to the high cost of these gems, many consumers are opting for lab-created diamonds as a cheaper alternative. 

All in all, both mined and lab-created diamonds possess different benefits and values depending on individual needs. By educating the public on the different types of diamonds available, the buyer can make the best-informed decision based on personal needs and preferences.

Shop Smart with Lab-Created Diamonds from HauteCarat 

When you’re making a big investment, you want to know that you’re getting the best value. That’s why when it comes to finding lab-created diamonds, you’re going to want to go with HauteCarat. We offer top-quality diamonds that are ethically sourced and come with a transparent grading process, so you know you’re getting the best possible stone.

Unlike traditional diamonds, HauteCarat lab-created diamonds are noticeably more affordable. That’s because these rocks have not been subjected to the long, arduous journey of being mined and cut. Furthermore, these diamonds are just as beautiful and brilliant as any mined diamond, with their lower price tag making them incredibly attractive to savvy shoppers.

At HauteCarat, our lab-created diamonds are cut to outstandingly specific standards, and attentively crafted by expert diamond cutters. Our stones also feature excellent cut, color, and clarity grades that result in consistently stunning sparkle and shine each and every time. And because each of our lab-created diamonds is fully traceable and ethically sourced, you can feel great knowing that you’ve made the right choice in investing in a beautiful stone.

Whether you’re shopping for a gift for someone special or treating yourself to a stunning diamond, HauteCarat is the premier destination for ethically sourced and stunningly gorgeous lab-created diamonds. Shop smart and shop confidently with lab-created diamonds from HauteCarat.

The Top-Rated 5 Best-Selling Products at HauteCarat

For the discerning lover of diamonds, only the best will do. If you're in the market for jewelry featuring lab-created diamonds, HauteCarat is your top choice! We stock only the finest diamonds—stunning, beautiful, brilliant, and perfect for even the most elegant of occasions. But with so many different options, which ones are the top sellers? Here are our top five picks from the ever-lasting selection at HauteCarat: 

1) Baguette Diamond Tennis Bracelet: Compliment any evening gown with this stunning tennis bracelet. Its one-of-a-kind design features genuine baguette stones set in grey gold and is sure to add a touch of glamor to your look. 

Shop Baguette Diamond Tennis Bracelet.

2) Pear-Shaped Diamond Halo Stud Earrings: These gorgeous earrings feature dazzling pear-shaped stones surrounded by a halo of white diamonds in a classic four-prong setting. A truly sophisticated piece, these earrings can complete any look. 

Purchase Pear-Shaped Diamond Halo Stud Earrings.

3) Emerald-Cut Diamond Solitaire Necklace: This statement piece features an emerald-cut stone in a yellow-gold bezel setting. The perfect gift for someone special, this artisanal necklace is sure to turn heads. 

Grab this Emerald-Cut Diamond Solitaire Necklace today.

4) Emerald Chain Bracelet: Worn alone or layered with other pieces, this bracelet combines modern and classic elements with its petite chain and emerald-cut lab-created diamond. With its timeless design, you can be sure that this Emerald Chain Bracelet will add a touch of elegance to any occasion.

Shop Emerald Chain Bracelet.

5) Round Diamond Stud Earrings: Last but not least, these stunning round diamonds set in a four-prong setting will be a classic addition to your jewelry box. Perfect for day or night wear, these earrings will take your look to the next level. 

Buy these Round Diamond Stud Earrings: 

No matter what you're looking for, HauteCarat has the perfect diamond jewelry for you. Shop now to find the perfect accessory for your look!

In conclusion, there are clear differences between lab-created diamonds and mined diamonds, and whether one or the other is the ideal choice for you depends on your individual style, preference, and budget. When choosing between lab-created diamonds vs. mined diamonds, there is no right or wrong answer. Instead, consider factors like your taste in diamond size and color, price, certifications and warranties, and ethical considerations. As we have seen, the popularity and availability of lab-created diamonds is growing, and the potential impact of lab-created diamonds is huge. Consumers are given an increased choice, with diamonds accessible in all sizes, shapes, and colors and at prices that are often lower.