Natural Diamonds vs Lab-Grown Diamonds
Understanding the Difference
Choosing a diamond is one of the most important decisions when creating an engagement ring. Today, many couples choose between two options: Earth made natural diamonds and man-made lab-grown diamonds.
While both are similar in the way they share the same chemical and physical properties, the key differences are in their origin, rarity, and long-term monetary value.
At MDT DESIGN, we believe it is essential that your jeweller clearly explains the differences between the two, as this is a decision that will remain with you for a lifetime, and is worn every day. Our role is not to steer clients in one direction or another, but to provide honest guidance and truthful advice so that you can make the choice that is right for you and your partner.
Whether you are considering a natural diamond engagement ring or exploring options of a custom lab grown diamond engagement ring, understanding the differences is an important first step.
What Are Natural Diamonds?
Natural diamonds are formed deep within the earth over billions of years, a result of intense heat and pressure.
Formed by Nature
Every natural diamond is created in the earth by a geological process that occurred billions of years ago, long before human’s civilisation.
Rare and Unique
No two natural diamonds are ever identical. Each carries its own unique inclusions, colour characteristics, and personality.
Long-Term Value
As natural diamonds are finite and are increasingly difficult to source, they have historically maintained stronger long-term value retention.
Responsibly Sourced
At MDT DESIGN, every natural diamond is 100% conflict-free and sourced in accordance with the Kimberley Process.
What Are Lab-Grown Diamonds?
Lab-grown diamonds are created using advanced technology that replicates the natural diamond-growing process.
The two main methods of creation are:
- HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature)
- CVD (Chemical Vapour Deposition)
Real Diamonds
Lab-grown diamonds are chemically and optically identical to natural diamonds and are graded using the same 4Cs. They are real, just not natural.
Modern Alternative
Many couples are drawn to lab-grown diamonds as they can achieve a larger sized or higher quality grades within a lower budget than natural diamonds.
Production and Availability
Unlike natural diamonds, lab-grown diamonds can be produced in large quantities, meaning they do not possess the same rarity.
Value Retention
As production increases and manufacturing technology evolves, lab-grown diamonds have experience greater depreciation over time and they will continue to drop.
Why we choose to work with lab Grown Diamonds.
If you’re considering a bespoke piece, you can learn more about our approach to
Custom lab grown diamond engagement rings in Melbourne.
Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Real Diamonds?
Yes. Lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds, they are just not natural.
They possess the same:
- Hardness
- Brilliance
- Light reflection
- The same chemical makeup
The only difference is simply how these diamonds are formed.
When selecting a diamond, the quality of the cutting, physical proportions, and overall engagement ring craftsmanship should remain equally important regardless of origin of the diamond.
Lab-Grown vs Natural Diamond Pricing
One of the main reasons clients consider a lab-grown diamond engagement ring is the pricing.
Lab-grown diamonds can allow clients to:
- Increase carat weigh
- Prioritise a higher colour or clarity grades
- Allocate more of the budget toward the ring design itself
For many couples in the market for an engagement ring, this creates opportunities for larger or more intricate detailed custom designs.
Some Custom Engagement Ring Designs.
Which Option Is Better Suited for a Custom Engagement Ring?
There is no right or wrong choice. This all depends entirely on individual and their personal priorities.
Some people may value:
- Naturally occurring earth made rarity’s
- Geological history
- Long-term tradition and symbolism
Other people may prioritise:
- Diamond Size and the visual impact
- Modern growing methods
- Lower price point
At MDT DESIGN, we work with both natural diamonds and lab-grown diamonds. We choose to always educate and guide clients through the diamond selection process based on their wants and preferences.
Regardless of which diamond you choose, the quality of the ring itself remains critical.
Every MDT DESIGN ring is made entirely by hand using traditional techniques involving rolling, hammering, and forging the metal for superior strength, durability and longevity.
We do not use CAD/Cast mass production manufacturing or mass-produced components and settings.
This ensures every ring is individually crafted for the exact chosen diamond. Built to last generations and become a family heirloom.
Why More Melbourne Couples Are Considering Lab-Grown Diamonds
Across Melbourne, more couples are exploring the option of lab-grown diamonds as part of the custom engagement ring process.
Common reasons include:
- Greater size within the same budget
- Flexibility in custom design options
- Interest in modern alternatives
- Ability to prioritise craftsmanship and fine design detail
For clients wanting a larger centre stone while still investing in a traditionally handmade ring, lab-grown diamonds can provide additional flexibility.
Explore custom designed engagement rings.
Why Education Matters
Choosing between a natural diamond and a lab-grown diamond is not simply about today – it is about creating a piece that will hold meaning for years to come, a true heirloom piece.
That is why MDT DESIGN takes the time to:
- Explain the differences of both clearly
- Show and compare diamonds side-by-side
- Compare qualities in person
- Help clients understand long-term considerations of each
Our role is to ensure you feel informed and confident in your decision, no matter which way you choose.
Choosing with Confidence
When selecting a diamond at MDT DESIGN, you will be able to:
- Compare natural and lab grown diamonds side-by-side
- Learn how cut quality that impacts appearance and lustre
- Understand the colour and clarity differences
- Receive transparent and truthful guidance throughout the process
We provide complete transparency from sourcing through to certification.
And with our Love at First Sight Guarantee, if your partner dreams of a different design, diamond shape, clarity, or size, we can adjust, remake the ring, or offer full credit for the piece to then be spent on redesigning the engagement ring. We ensuring your choice is always the correct one!
Frequently Asked Questions About Natural and Lab-Grown Diamonds
Can you tell the difference between a natural and lab-grown diamond?
Visually, no. Lab-grown diamonds are chemically and optically identical to natural diamonds.
Are lab-grown diamonds cheaper than natural diamonds?
Yes. Lab-grown diamonds cost less per carat than natural diamonds.
Do lab-grown diamonds last forever?
Yes they can. Lab-grown diamonds have the same hardness and durability as natural diamonds.
Are lab-grown diamonds good for engagement rings?
Yes. Many couples choose lab-grown diamonds for custom engagement rings due to the flexibility they provide in size and budget.
Is a natural or lab-grown diamond better?
The choice depends heavily on what matters most to you – rarity, symbolism, budget, or design priorities.
Does MDT DESIGN work with natural and lab-grown diamonds?
Yes. MDT DESIGN offers engagement rings in both Earth made natural and man-made lab-grown diamonds and provides guidance tailored to each client’s preferences.
Visit MDT DESIGN in Melbourne
We invite you to explore both our natural and lab-grown diamonds in our Collins Street boutique.
Book a consultation to experience the MDT DESIGN difference in person with the guidance of our award-winning jewellers.
