Diamonds are prized for their sparkle and durability, but modern buyers must decide whether to invest in natural diamonds or choose laboratory-grown alternatives.

Natural diamonds form deep within the Earth under extreme heat and pressure over millions to billions of years.

In contrast, lab-grown diamonds are created using technological processes—high pressure high temperature (HPHT) or chemical vapour deposition (CVD)—that replicate natural conditions in a controlled environment, producing a crystal within a few days to weeks.

Both types are composed of pure carbon and exhibit essentially the same chemical, physical and optical properties. Only highly trained gemologists with specialized equipment can reliably distinguish them.

This guide compares lab-grown and natural diamonds using reputable industry sources and outlines the pros and cons of each. It also explains why Fishers Jewellers—an Whangarei based family jeweller in business for over 100 years—is ideally placed to help customers select and commission the perfect diamond jewellery.

Natural Diamonds

Origin

Natural diamonds form deep in the Earth over hundreds of millions to billions of years under extreme pressure and heat.

Chemical/Optical Properties

They are comprised of carbon and often contain trace elements such as nitrogen; exhibits natural variations and inclusions, giving each stone unique character.

Identification

Natural diamonds require gemological lab equipment to verify origin.

Certifications and Grading

GIA (Gemological Institute of America)

The GIA grades both natural and lab-grown diamonds and issues Laboratory-Grown Diamond Reports. To avoid confusion, the GIA uses broader colour and clarity categories for lab-grown diamonds than for natural stones. Fishers Jewellers employs a GIA Diamond Graduate on site to help clients interpret these reports.

IGI (International Gemological Institute)

Widely used to certify lab-grown diamonds. IGI reports provide an accurate assessment of cut, colour, clarity and carat.

HRD Antwerp

Another internationally recognized grading institute; Fishers Jewellers works with HRD Antwerp and belongs to the Antwerp Diamond Brokers Club.

Making Your Decision

Choosing between a lab-grown or natural diamond depends on individual priorities:

Budget

Lab-grown diamonds offer larger carat sizes or higher quality at a given budget. Buyers focusing on investment value should consider the higher resale potential of natural diamonds.

Ethics & sustainability

Lab-grown diamonds avoid mining related harm. Natural diamonds with traceable origins and certifications from reputable suppliers (such as Fishers Jewellers’ diamonds) can also meet ethical standards.

Symbolism & tradition

Natural diamonds carry cultural significance and a sense of rarity. Lab-grown diamonds reflect modern values of sustainability and innovation.

Resale value

Natural diamonds can retain their value; lab-grown stones generally may not.

Personal taste

Both types can be cut into any shape and exhibit exceptional brilliance. A diamond specialist can help assess cut, colour, clarity and carat to maximize beauty and value.

1. Heritage and expertise

Fishers Jewellers has been serving New Zealanders for over 100 years. The company’s philosophy, “Customers for Life,” emphasises long term relationships and high quality service.

2. GIA Diamond Graduate on site

An accredited Gemological Institute of America (GIA) Graduate is available in store 
to guide clients through diamond grading and selection. This expertise ensures you understand the 4Cs and certification reports.

3. Antwerp Diamond Brokers

Owners Johnny and Patricia belong to the Antwerp Diamond Brokers Club and regularly travel to Antwerp (the world’s diamond trading centre, where about 80% of the world’s diamonds are traded) to hand pick diamonds for clients. Their access to a vast inventory and international contacts allows them to source superior stones at competitive prices.

4. International buying network

Fishers Jewellers has built a reliable network of diamond suppliers, including contacts in Antwerp and Botswana. This network provides access to both natural and lab-grown diamonds of exceptional quality.