The choice of a diamond ring can start with many things. A memorable cut, a particular shade, or how the ring looks on your own hand. At some point, the question of the diamond's origin often arises: natural diamond or lab-grown diamond?
VonKajander Fine Jewellery's collection includes both. With natural diamonds, we are particularly drawn to their unique shades and the stone's own character. Lab-grown diamonds, on the other hand, offer the opportunity to find a striking size, beautiful cut, and appealing design within a budget that may not be enough for a comparable natural diamond.
The choice is not the same for everyone. Once the differences are clear, it is easier to identify what matters most to you.
Is a lab-grown diamond a real diamond?
Yes. A lab-grown diamond is a diamond whose chemical composition, crystal structure, and optical and physical properties are essentially the same as those of a natural diamond. It is not a diamond imitation, such as zirconia, nor is it another gemstone, such as moissanite.
The key difference is how it is formed. A natural diamond is formed deep within the earth as a result of geological processes. A lab-grown diamond is grown in man-made, controlled conditions.
Growing diamonds in a laboratory also does not mean that all stones are alike or flawless. There are also differences between them in color, clarity, cut, and appearance. IGI
Can you tell the origin from the ring?
Sparkle or the stone's clarity alone cannot tell whether a diamond is natural or lab-grown. Reliably distinguishing the origin requires proper testing methods and equipment. gia.edu
Therefore, a buyer does not need to try to determine the origin from photographs. It should be clearly stated in the product information and the potential laboratory report.
In addition to its origin, many other factors affect the appearance of a ring: how the stone is cut, its proportions, and how it is set. A beautiful diamond deserves a setting that suits its shape and intended use.
Why do lab-grown diamonds generally cost less?
The pricing of natural diamonds is influenced by factors such as their natural availability and rarity. Lab-grown diamond production can be increased, and advancements in manufacturing technology have lowered their prices. GIA 4Cs
The price difference does not mean that a lab-grown diamond is a softer material or that its sparkle is imitation. Diamonds of different origins have different markets and pricing structures.
For a buyer, this can mean more choices. With the same budget, it may be possible to choose a larger stone or a desired cut and quality grade. Of course, a larger size is not the goal for everyone: some are looking for a subtle solitaire, while others want a striking three-stone ring.
The price of a finished piece of jewelry is also determined by factors other than the diamond. Gold or platinum, the setting's construction, the setting work, and the finishing are all part of the whole. Therefore, rings should be compared as complete pieces of jewelry.
Carat weight does not tell the whole story
Carat is a unit of weight. It does not tell you on its own how large a diamond will look on your finger. The stone's dimensions, shape, and proportions also affect its visible size. GIA 4Cs
An elongated oval, pear, or marquise shape looks different on the hand than a round diamond of the same weight. The calm, mirror-like appearance of an emerald cut also differs from the small, lively flashes of light of a round brilliant cut. The best choice is often found by looking at different stones rather than comparing just one figure.
It is also worth checking the product information to see whether the weight refers to the center stone or the total weight of the diamonds in the piece. A three-carat solitaire and a three-carat band ring can look very different, even if the total weight of the diamonds is the same.
At VonKajander, we examine the entire execution of the piece in addition to the stone: its proportions, setting, band, and finishing. A high carat weight or high clarity grade alone does not determine whether a piece will join our collection.
What does a diamond report tell you?
A report from an independent gemological laboratory helps you understand what kind of stone you are looking at. For example, an IGI:n lab-grown diamond report describes the stone's shape, dimensions, carat weight, color, and clarity, as well as cut information according to the report type and cut. IGI
It is worth checking the report to see which stone or piece of jewelry it refers to. A report for a ring's center stone does not automatically describe all the side stones.
The report is an important source of information, but it cannot replace viewing the piece of jewelry. It cannot convey all of the stone's play of light, the feel of the jewelry, or how the whole piece fits on your own hand.
Can a lab-grown diamond withstand wear?
A lab-grown diamond is suitable for jewelry use just like a natural diamond. A diamond is an extremely hard material, but hardness does not mean it is unbreakable: a powerful impact can also damage a diamond.
The settings and the band of the piece also require attention during wear. It is advisable to remove the ring during activities such as gym workouts and heavy manual work. If the stone moves or the setting catches on clothing more easily than before, it is a good idea to have the piece checked.
What about its future value?
This is an interesting topic that I have considered and researched extensively. The purchase price of a piece of jewelry and its later resale price are two different things. The price level of lab-grown diamonds has changed as production has advanced, and today's price cannot be considered a definitive promise of future value.
A natural diamond's origin alone cannot guarantee that its purchase price will be maintained. We do not recommend choosing either based on expected returns. A gemstone business purely aimed at investment is its own world.
For us, a great jewelry find means above all a beautiful whole, whose materials, execution, and price feel justified at the time of purchase.
Which one feels right for you?
A natural diamond may be the right choice for you if its origin story and the individuality formed in nature are an essential part of its appeal. A warm champagne shade, a subtle hint of color, or a distinctive old cut may be just the quality that makes the stone interesting.
A lab-grown diamond, on the other hand, may be right for you if you particularly emphasize the appearance and size of the piece of jewelry, and the opportunity to find the whole you desire within your own budget.
In VonKajander Fine Jewellery's collection, both have their place. We look for pieces of jewelry one at a time: sometimes the choice begins with an exceptional color, sometimes with a cut or design that stays in mind. Most of the pieces in our collection are one-of-a-kind.
If you are considering two rings, we will help you compare them with your own use in mind. Try-ons and an introduction to the jewelry can be arranged by appointment.
Discover lab-grown diamond jewelry or find your own favorite from the collection of natural diamonds and gemstones.
Searched for. Found. Your turn.