Lab‑grown diamonds are typically cheaper than their natural counterparts because they are produced in a controlled environment rather than mined from the earth. In the UK, lab‑grown stones of comparable size and quality can cost 30 – 50 % less than natural diamonds. However, price isn't the only factor to consider when choosing between lab‑grown and natural gems. Here's how their costs compare and what else to keep in mind.
### Why lab‑grown diamonds cost less
- **Lower production costs:** Cultivating diamonds in a laboratory eliminates the high overhead of mining (heavy equipment, labour, exploration and land rehabilitation).
- **Shorter supply chain:** Lab‑grown stones go directly from the manufacturer to retailers, reducing middlemen and markups.
- **Price transparency:** Online retailers often publish pricing tiers for carat, colour, clarity and cut; natural diamond pricing is more opaque.
- **Growing supply:** As more companies produce lab diamonds, increased competition helps drive prices down.
### Factors that influence price
- **Carat size and quality:** As with natural diamonds, bigger stones and higher colour/clarity grades command higher prices.
- **Certification:** Stones certified by reputable labs (GIA or IGI) may cost more than uncertified stones but provide peace of mind.
- **Branding:** Some high‑end brands charge premiums for their lab‑grown diamonds, narrowing the price gap.
### Pros and cons of choosing lab‑grown over natural
**Pros**
- **Affordability:** You can usually buy a larger or better‑quality lab diamond for the same budget.
- **Ethical and eco‑friendly:** Lab diamonds avoid environmental damage and social issues associated with mining.
- **Consistency:** Lab‑grown diamonds often have fewer inclusions and consistent colour.
**Cons**
- **Resale value:** The secondary market for lab‑grown diamonds is still developing; resale prices may be lower than natural diamonds.
- **Perception:** Some people feel that lab diamonds lack the romance or rarity of natural stones.
- **Innovation costs:** New manufacturing techniques could further reduce prices, potentially affecting the value of stones bought today.
### Comparing natural vs lab‑grown diamond cost
| Diamond type | Typical price difference* |
|--------------|-----------------------------|
| 1 ct natural diamond | Baseline price |
| 1 ct lab‑grown diamond | ~30 – 50 % lower than natural |
| 2 ct natural diamond | Baseline price |
| 2 ct lab‑grown diamond | ~30 – 50 % lower than natural |
*Prices are approximate and depend on the 4 Cs (carat, cut, colour and clarity) and current market conditions.
### Tips for deciding
- **Set your priorities:** If budget, size or ethical sourcing is most important, lab‑grown diamonds offer great value.
- **Compare certificates:** Always check the grading report for both lab‑grown and natural stones to ensure you're comparing like‑for‑like quality.
- **Consider long‑term value:** Natural diamonds may hold value better; however, buying a ring for love rather than investment means this may matter less.
### Frequently asked questions
**Why are lab‑grown diamonds cheaper?**
They are created in controlled facilities using high‑pressure, high‑temperature or chemical vapour deposition methods. This eliminates costly mining and reduces the supply chain.
**Are lab‑grown diamonds real diamonds?**
Yes. Lab‑grown diamonds have the same chemical composition and optical properties as natural diamonds; only their origin differs.
**Do lab‑grown diamonds have resale value?**
While demand is growing, resale markets are still evolving. Natural diamonds generally retain value better.
**Are there additional costs with lab diamonds?**
No—the main cost difference relates to the stone itself. Settings, metal and craftsmanship are the same for lab‑grown and natural rings.
Last updated: March 2026