Lab-Grown Diamonds vs Natural: Which Is Best for Your Engagement Ring This Year?

Introduction

Choosing the perfect diamond for your engagement ring is a major decision—one that blends emotion, tradition, and modern values. As you search for “engagement rings near me,” you’ll likely encounter a key question: “Should you choose a lab-grown diamond or a natural diamond for your engagement ring in 2025?” This guide from Simply Majestic explores the facts, trends, and considerations to help you make the best choice for your love story.

Origin

• Lab-grown diamonds are created in high-tech laboratories using advanced technology that replicates the natural diamond-forming process.
• Natural diamonds are formed over billions of years deep within the earth and are extracted through mining.

Appearance and Quality

• Both lab-grown and natural diamonds are chemically, physically, and optically identical—they both rate a 10 on the Mohs hardness scale and display the same brilliance and fire.
• Most jewelers cannot distinguish between the two without specialized equipment.

• Lab-grown diamonds are typically 30–50% less expensive than natural diamonds of the same size and quality.
• This price difference means you can often afford a larger or higher-quality lab-grown diamond for the same budget, making them a popular choice for value-conscious buyers searching for “engagement rings near me”.

• Lab-grown diamonds are widely recognized as the more ethical and sustainable choice:
• They avoid the environmental disruption and ethical concerns associated with mining.
• Lab-grown diamonds use up to 60% less energy and have a 50% smaller carbon footprint compared to mined diamonds.
• They are conflict-free and produced in controlled environments with fair labor practices.
• Natural diamonds can be sourced ethically, especially with certifications like the Kimberley Process, but the supply chain is more complex and less transparent.

• Over 70% of millennial buyers now prefer lab-grown diamonds for engagement rings, citing sustainability, affordability, and ethical sourcing as key factors.
• Lab-grown diamonds are the top jewelry trend of 2025, appealing to eco-conscious and budget-savvy couples alike.

• Some buyers feel a natural diamond’s ancient origin adds sentimental value, while others appreciate the modern, innovative story behind a lab-grown diamond.
• Both options offer lasting beauty and durability, so the choice often comes down to personal values and priorities.

Price

• Lab-Grown: 30–50% less
• Natural: Higher, rarity/mining

Ethics

• Lab-Grown: Conflict-free, transparent
• Natural: Varies; certified ethical options

Environmental Impact

• Lab-Grown: Lower footprint
• Natural: Higher, mining-related

Appearance

• Lab-Grown: Identical
• Natural: Identical

Popularity (2025)

• Lab-Grown: Preferred by 70%+ millennials
• Natural: Traditional choice

Whether you’re drawn to the eco-friendly sparkle of lab-grown diamonds or the timeless allure of natural stones, Simply Majestic offers a curated selection of both. As you search for “engagement rings near me”, trust our expertise to guide you toward a ring that reflects your values, style, and love story.

Ready to explore your options? Visit Simply Majestic for expert guidance and a stunning collection of lab-grown and natural diamond engagement rings.