How to Choose the Right Diamond (natural v/s lab-grown): Answers to Quora's Most Popular Queries

Lab-grown diamond jewelry has skyrocketed in recent years—it's everywhere, from engagement rings to everyday essentials. It's the perfect mix of beauty, brilliance, and value, which is why more people are choosing them for fine jewelry. But their rising popularity has also led to some misinformation and confusion.

People have many questions about lab diamonds, so we decided to gather the most common ones from Quora and provide clear, honest answers. Let's get to it!

Why are more people choosing lab-grown diamonds for everyday fine jewelry?

More people are going with lab-grown diamonds for everyday fine jewelry because they deliver the same beauty, durability, and sparkle as mined diamonds—but with a friendlier price tag and a smaller environmental impact. They're ethically sourced, so there's no concern about where the diamonds are mined. Plus, advances in technology mean you can get larger or more unique cuts without incurring significant costs.

Are lab-grown diamonds only good for engagement rings? Or can they be used for other types of jewelry, like earrings and bracelets?

Lab-grown diamonds work beautifully for not just engagement rings but for all types of jewelry. With Clarity offers lab-grown options for bracelets, earrings, necklaces, fashion rings, and bracelets. Whether you prefer timeless classics or trend-driven designs, you'll find thousands of pieces crafted with lab-grown diamonds. The best part? These pieces give you the sparkle and durability of real diamonds, while also reflecting your values—and often at a friendlier price point.

What are the most popular types of lab-grown diamond jewelry right now?

Engagement rings, earrings, bracelets—you name it, lab-grown diamonds are shining in them all!

To give you a perspective: In 2025, nearly half of all engagement rings feature a lab-grown center stone, with studies showing that around 48–52% of couples are making the switch. Their appeal is the variety: from classic rounds to trendy ovals and bold emerald cuts, they come in endless shapes and settings, giving buyers more room to explore styles without stretching their budget.

They're also a top choice for other jewelry categories. Earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and wedding bands featuring these stones are steadily gaining popularity, capturing up to 35% of the market in some segments.

It's clear they're no longer just an alternative—they've become a major part of modern fine jewelry.

Is lab-grown diamond jewelry durable enough for daily wear?

Yes! Lab-grown diamonds have the same carbon crystal structure as mined diamonds, which means they're also just as hard—scoring a 10 on the Mohs scale. They're highly resistant to scratches and built to withstand everyday wear while keeping their brilliance intact. While the durability of the diamond itself is a given, what truly matters is the craftsmanship of the setting and the after-care you give it.

Can I mix lab-grown diamond jewelry with natural diamond pieces?

Absolutely! Lab and natural diamonds look identical and have the same sparkle and brilliance. In fact, no one can tell the difference between the two, unless you explicitly tell them. So, feel free to mix, stack, and style them however you like—lab-grown and natural diamonds shine just as beautifully together.

Are lab-grown diamonds a passing trend or here to stay?

Lab-grown diamonds are here to stay. While they've experienced a massive surge in popularity thanks to current trends—such as sustainability, personalization, and affordability—their staying power stems from the fact that they're 100% real diamonds. They have the same sparkle, durability, and beauty as their mined counterparts. More and more couples are also choosing them for engagement rings, and brands are expanding full collections around them—from everyday studs to luxury bracelets.

At this point, we can safely say that lab-grown diamonds have moved beyond being "trendy" and have now become a mainstream, lasting choice in fine jewelry.

Do lab-grown diamonds come in colors other than white?

Yes! Lab-grown diamonds go far beyond classic white—you'll find them in playful pinks, vibrant blues, sunny yellows, rich greens, even mysterious blacks and champagne tones. Since they're created in a controlled environment, the colors are strikingly vivid, consistent, and often much more affordable than natural colored diamonds. They offer an easy (and fun!) way to put a vibrant spin on your outfits or grow your jewelry collection without overspending.

Do colored lab-grown diamonds cost more or less than white ones?

Generally, colored lab-grown diamonds (also known as fancy lab diamonds) tend to cost more than white lab-grown ones, especially if the color is rare or highly sought-after—like vivid pinks or deep blues. That's because those colors require more precise growing conditions or special treatments, adding to the price. That said, they're still far more affordable than natural fancy colored diamonds.

Do lab-grown diamonds hold value as well as mined diamonds over time?

Lab-grown diamonds do have a resale value, but it's generally lower compared to natural diamonds. They're often resold at about 30-40% of the original price, whereas natural diamonds tend to retain their value somewhat better. That said, lab-grown diamonds already cost significantly less upfront, so even with a lower resale, you're still getting incredible beauty, durability, and sparkle at a fraction of the price—which is why so many people see them as a smart, modern choice.

Should I opt for natural or lab-grown when purchasing for special occasions or anniversary gifts?

Both natural and lab-grown diamonds are beautiful, meaningful gifts for special occasions or anniversaries. Ultimately, it comes down to what matters most to you and the person you're giving it to. Natural diamonds carry that sense of rarity, tradition, and "forever" symbolism, which some people find especially meaningful for anniversaries. Lab-grown diamonds, on the other hand, deliver the same sparkle and beauty but at a more accessible price—so you can often go bigger in size or choose a more elaborate design without stretching your budget.

To sum up: If sentiment and origin matter most, natural diamonds can be considered. But if modern values and affordability appeal more, lab-grown is a fantastic choice. Either way, the occasion will shine because of the meaning you attach to the piece.

Conclusion

Whether you're all about style, size, or sustainability, lab-grown diamonds are totally shaking up the jewelry world—and honestly, they only keep getting better. These jewels aren't going anywhere anytime soon; their popularity is only going to keep growing. It's incredible that you're taking the time to learn more about them! If you want to explore some beautiful lab-grown diamond jewelry options, head over to With Clarity. You can shop stunning pieces and save big on them too!