Natural vs Lab-Grown Diamonds and Gemstones

When choosing an engagement ring or wedding ring, one of the most common questions customers ask is the difference between natural diamonds and lab grown diamonds. If you have never bought a diamond ring before, the terminology can be confusing, so here are the simple facts.

At The Hamilton Gold Company we offer a 30% Blue Light Workers Discount as a thank you to those working in emergency services, healthcare and other key roles.

All of our engagement and wedding rings are bespoke, meaning each ring is made specifically for the customer. Because of this, we offer both natural and lab-grown diamonds and gemstones, allowing customers to choose what suits their priorities and budget best.

First, it helps to understand what each type of diamond and gemstone actually is.

A natural stone is formed naturally in the earth and was later mined from the ground.

A lab-grown stone is also a real, but it is created in a laboratory instead of being mined.

The key thing to understand is that both are real precious stones. The main difference is simply where they come from.

What natural and lab-grown diamonds/gemstones have in common;

• Both are real 
  
• Both look the same to the naked eye
  
• Both sparkle the same when cut well
  
• Both are extremely durable, making them ideal for engagement rings
  
• Both are graded using the same system
  
• Both can come with certification
  

Diamonds are graded using the 4Cs, which apply to both natural and lab grown stones.

• Cut - how well the diamond reflects light
  
• Colour - how colourless the diamond appears
  
• Clarity - natural internal marks within the diamond
  
• Carat - the size and weight of the diamond
  

Both natural and lab grown stones can also come with independent certification from organisations such as GIA or IGI, confirming the stone's grading.

Natural;

• Formed naturally in the earth
  
• Mined from the ground
  
• Considered rare because they are created by nature
  

Lab-grown;

• Created in laboratories
  
• Usually cost less than natural diamonds of the same size and quality
  
• Allow customers to choose a larger diamond for the same budget
  

One important point is that lab grown stones are NOT fake. They are completely different from imitation stones like cubic zirconia. Lab grown stones are genuine, with the same grading system and properties as natural stones.

For many customers the choice simply comes down to preference. Some prefer the idea of a naturally formed diamond/gemstone, while others choose lab-grown so they can get more value for their money..

At The Hamilton Gold Company, every ring is designed around the customer, meaning you can choose the stone that suits you best - whether that is natural or lab-grown diamonds or gemstones.