Lab grown diamonds have become an increasingly popular choice for engagement rings and fine jewellery. But how do they compare to natural diamonds, and which is right for you?

At Class A, we offer both natural and lab grown diamonds. While each has its own appeal, there are a few key differences worth understanding before making your decision.

First, it's important to know that lab grown diamonds are real diamonds. They're not imitations or alternatives like cubic zirconia or moissanite. They share the same chemical composition, brilliance and durability as natural diamonds.

HOW THEY'RE CREATED

Natural diamonds form deep within the earth over billions of years, under extreme heat and pressure.

Lab grown diamonds are created in a controlled environment using advanced technology that replicates the conditions in which natural diamonds form. There are two main methods: High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD). Both begin with a small diamond seed, allowing a diamond to grow over a matter of weeks rather than billions of years.

Despite their different origins, both are made from crystallised carbon and share the same physical, chemical and optical properties. Both score 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness and offer the same brilliance and sparkle.

To the naked eye, they're virtually identical. Specialised gemmological equipment is needed to distinguish between them.

DIAMOND GRADING & CERTIFICATION

Both natural and lab grown diamonds are assessed using the same 4Cs: cut, colour, clarity and carat weight.

These characteristics determine a diamond's overall appearance and quality, regardless of how it was formed.

Many of our lab grown centre diamonds are independently certified by the International Gemological Institute (IGI), with individual diamond specifications available on our product pages.

PRICE & VALUE

One of the biggest differences between natural and lab grown diamonds is price.

Lab grown diamonds are generally significantly more affordable than natural diamonds of comparable size and quality. This is largely due to their availability and the ability to produce them in a controlled environment, while natural diamonds are a finite resource.

For many couples, choosing a lab grown diamond means being able to select a larger carat weight or higher diamond specifications while staying within their budget.

Natural diamonds, on the other hand, are valued for their rarity and the fact that each has formed naturally over billions of years.

Both have their own appeal, and ultimately, the right choice comes down to what matters most to you.

WHICH DIAMOND IS RIGHT FOR YOU?

There's no one-size-fits-all answer.

Some are drawn to the natural rarity and history of a mined diamond, while others prefer the flexibility a lab grown diamond offers when it comes to size, quality and budget.

At Class A, we believe choosing a diamond should feel personal. Whether you're designing a bespoke engagement ring or selecting a piece of fine jewellery, our team can guide you through both options and help you find a diamond that suits your style, preferences and budget.

Explore our diamond jewellery online or visit our Adelaide showroom to compare natural and lab grown diamonds in person.