Lab-Grown vs Mined Diamonds: What You Need to Know Before You Choose

What is a Lab-Grown Diamond?

A lab-grown diamond is a real diamond, sharing the exact same physical, chemical, and optical properties as a natural, mined diamond. These diamonds are created in highly controlled laboratory environments using advanced technological processes that replicate the conditions under which natural diamonds develop beneath the Earth's surface. The result is a diamond that is visually, physically, and chemically identical to a mined diamond, certified by leading gemological institutes such as Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and the International Gemological Institute (IGI).

Unlike diamond simulants such as cubic zirconia or moissanite, lab-grown diamonds are genuine diamonds, they have the same hardness, brilliance, fire, and sparkle that have made natural diamonds so prized for centuries.

The Benefits of Lab-Grown Diamonds vs Mined Diamonds

Environmental Sustainability

• Land preservation:  Lab-grown diamonds significantly reduce environmental disruption, while mined diamonds displace up to 1,750 tons of earth per carat.

• Lower water usage:  Lab-grown diamonds use approximately 70 litres of water per carat compared to 480 litres for mined diamonds.
  

Ethical Assurance

• No conflict diamonds:  They eliminate the risk of funding armed conflict, unlike some mined diamonds.

• Safer labor conditions:  Produced in controlled environments, lab-grown diamonds bypass many of the unsafe labor practices still present in some mining regions.

Transparency and Traceability

• Clear origins:  Lab-grown diamonds can be traced directly to their production facilities, offering better transparency.

• Supply chain integrity:  Avoids the complex and sometimes opaque sourcing practices associated with mined diamonds.

Exceptional Value

• More accessible luxury:  Lab-grown diamonds are typically 30% to 70% more affordable than mined diamonds of comparable size and quality.

Authentic Beauty

• Genuine diamonds:  Lab-grown diamonds share the same chemical structure and optical qualities as natural diamonds.
  

Why We Choose Lab-Grown Diamonds

At Alice & Annie, we believe that true luxury is conscious, thoughtful, and future-focused. We choose lab-grown diamonds because they align with our commitment to care, for our planet, for people, and for the generations to come.

Lab-grown diamonds allow us to offer exceptional beauty without compromise. They reflect the values we hold dear: respect for the earth, respect for craftsmanship, and respect for our clients' desire to make meaningful, mindful choices.

We understand that jewellery is deeply personal, and we celebrate every journey - whether clients choose lab-grown or natural stones. For those who seek a modern, sustainable path to timeless elegance, lab-grown diamonds offer a brilliant way forward.