Lab-Grown Diamond vs. Mined Diamond vs. Diamond Simulant
Mined diamonds form naturally over millions of years and are traditionally highly known. Lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds, identical to mined diamonds in chemical, physical, and optical properties, but created in controlled lab environments. As carat size and quality increase, the value proposition of lab-grown diamonds becomes even more compelling, offering superior price-to-quality ratios. Their strong price-to-quality ratio supports better long-term value retention, particularly with regard to their future market worth. Diamond simulants, such as cubic zirconia and moissanite, are not real diamonds; they mimic the appearance of diamonds but differ in composition and durability, offering no long-term value.
How is the value retention of lab-grown diamonds?
Lab-grown diamonds offer better absolute value retention compared to natural diamonds due to their lower initial cost. The resale value—for both natural and lab-grown diamonds—is typically around 30–40% of the original purchase price, as buyers usually consider only the material value. Labor costs for goldsmiths and setters are excluded, and fixed costs as well as profit margins are factored into the buyer’s calculations. However, RYIA stands out as the only jeweler offering a 70% buyback guarantee on selected pieces, such as solitaire diamond rings, earrings, and necklaces—a unique and customer-focused commitment.
Full Version:
Diamonds are celebrated as the ultimate symbols of love and eternity. Yet, when selecting a diamond ring or piece of jewelry, you’re often met with a confusing array of terms for products that all seem to be diamonds. But are they truly diamonds? RYIA clarifies the distinctions among lab-grown diamonds, natural diamonds, and diamond simulants, setting the record straight on quality and authenticity.
I. Classification and Detailed Comparison
Mined Diamonds
Mined diamonds, often referred to as natural diamonds, are genuine diamonds formed deep within the Earth’s crust over millions of years. Under extreme pressure and high temperatures, these remarkable stones are created and brought to the surface through volcanic activity, where they are then extracted through mining.
Each mined diamond is unique, shaped by nature, and certified using the renowned 4C grading system—cut, color, clarity, and carat weight—by prestigious institutions such as IGI (International Gemological Institute).
Lab-Grown Diamonds
Lab-grown diamonds are also genuine diamonds, sharing the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as their mined counterparts (Table 1). Often referred to as laboratory-created or synthetic diamonds, these stones are crafted in controlled environments using state-of-the-art technologies and standards.
Two advanced techniques, High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD), allow lab-grown diamonds to be cultivated in a matter of weeks. Despite their origin, they are physically and chemically identical to mined diamonds, offering the same brilliance and hardness (Table 1). Like natural diamonds, lab-grown diamonds are graded and certified by institutions such as IGI or GIA, using the same rigorous 4C standards.
Click here to learn more about the ethical and sustainable advantages of lab-grown diamonds.
Diamond Simulants
Diamond simulants, on the other hand, are not classified as genuine diamonds. They are also referred to as diamond imitations or imitation diamonds. While they may resemble diamonds in appearance, their chemical and physical properties differ significantly (Table 1). Common examples of diamond simulants include cubic zirconia, moissanite, and certain types of high-quality glass.
Although beautiful in their own right, simulants lack the durability and brilliance of genuine diamonds, making them a distinct separated category.
II. Price Comparison
Mined Diamonds
Mined diamonds, also known as natural diamonds, are typically more expensive than lab-grown diamonds. This is largely due to the complex and resource-intensive process of mining, which includes exploration, extraction, and refinement. The price of a mined diamond can vary significantly depending on its size, quality, and origin.
Sustainable Lab-Grown Diamonds
Lab-grown diamonds offer a more cost-effective alternative without compromising on quality. On average, they are approximately 40% or more affordable than mined diamonds of equivalent size and quality. As carat size and quality increase, the value proposition of lab-grown diamonds becomes even more compelling, offering superior price-to-quality ratios. Their strong price-to-quality ratio supports better long-term value retention, particularly with regard to their future market worth.
For those seeking a high-quality diamond, lab-grown diamonds present an excellent opportunity to own a stunning gemstone with exceptional value and lasting brilliance.
Diamond Simulants
Diamond imitations, may mimic the appearance of real diamonds such as lab-grown or mined diamonds but lack their intrinsic value. These simulants are not considered valuable assets and do not retain their worth over time. Unlike genuine diamonds, they have little to no resale value, making them a less desirable option for those seeking both beauty and value.
Table 1: Physical and Chemical Comparison among Lab-grown Diamonds, Mined-Diamonds, Cubic Zirconia, and Moissanite.
| Property | Lab-Grown Diamond | Mined Diamond | Simulant: Cubic Zirconia | Simulant: Moissanite |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | C | C | ZrO2 | SiC |
| Crystal Structure | Cubic | Cubic | Cubic | Hexagonal |
| Density | 3.52 g/cm³ | 3.52 g/cm³ | 5.6 - 6.0 g/cm³ | 3.22 g/cm³ |
| Hardness (Mohs scale) | 10 | 10 | 8.0 - 8.5 | 9.25 |
| Refractive Index ("sparkle") | 2.42 | 2.42 | 2.15 - 2.18 | 2.65 - 2.69 |
| Dispersion ("sparkle") | 0.044 | 0.044 | 0.058 | 0.104 |
| Melting Point | 3550 °C | 3550 °C | ~2750 °C | ~2700 °C |
| Thermal Conductivity | 900 - 2300 W/(m·K) | 900 - 2300 W/(m·K) | 10 - 15 W/(m·K) | 490 W/(m·K) |
| Thermal Expansion Coefficient | 1 × 10-6 K⁻¹ | 1 × 10-6 K⁻¹ | 11 × 10-6 K⁻¹ | 4.3 × 10-6 K⁻¹ |
| Electrical Conductivity | Insulator | Insulator | Insulator | Semiconductor |
| UV Fluorescence | Yes, varies | Yes, varies | Typically none | Often |