Lab-Grown vs Natural Diamonds: Which one is for you?

Choosing a diamond today means navigating more options than ever before. In the past, most Irish couples simply looked at size, clarity, and price — but now, there’s a new question on everyone’s mind: should you go with a natural or lab-grown diamond? This isn’t just a trend. Over the last few years, we’ve seen a growing number of people coming into us asking the same thing. They want something beautiful and lasting, but also ethical, sustainable, and within budget. That’s exactly where lab-grown diamonds come into the conversation.

At Fallers Jewellers, we’ve helped generations of couples find the perfect diamond for their engagement, wedding, or special occasion. And today, that often includes helping them decide between a lab-grown diamond and a natural, earth-mined diamond. It’s a decision worth considering carefully—and the right choice comes down to your values, lifestyle, and what the diamond means to you.

So What’s the Difference?

A natural diamond is a mineral created deep within the earth, over the course of billions of years. It is extracted through traditional mining and, once cut and polished, carries with it a sense of rarity and heritage that many people find deeply meaningful. A lab-grown diamond, on the other hand, is created in a controlled laboratory environment using advanced technology that replicates the conditions under which diamonds form in nature but in a quicker timeframe. The result is a diamond that is chemically and optically identical to one mined from the earth.

To the naked eye, there is no visible difference between a lab-grown and a natural diamond. Both sparkle with the same brilliance, both are graded using the same standards (cut, colour, clarity, carat), and both can be certified by reputable institutions like GIA or IGI. Unless disclosed, it would be nearly impossible for someone—even an expert—to distinguish one from the other without specialised equipment.

The Price Difference in 2025

One of the most significant factors for many buyers is price. Today, lab-grown diamonds in Ireland are significantly more affordable than natural diamonds. A 1-carat, high-grade natural diamond might cost between €6,000 and €8,000, while a lab-grown diamond of the same size and quality could range from €2,000 to €3,500. This price gap has widened in recent years, largely due to supply. Natural diamonds are limited in quantity, while lab-grown diamonds can be produced in greater volumes, leading to a drop in cost.

This shift comes down to one key factor: supply. Natural diamonds are limited in quantity because they take billions of years to form beneath the Earth’s surface. Their rarity adds to their value. Lab-grown diamonds, on the other hand, can be created in a matter of weeks in a laboratory setting. Because they can be produced in greater quantities, their cost has dropped accordingly — and continues to do so. As a result, lab-grown diamonds now offer exceptional value. For many buyers, this makes them an attractive choice, especially for those working within a defined budget. It’s entirely possible to purchase a larger or higher-quality lab-grown diamond at a fraction of the price of a natural stone with the same specifications in cut, colour, clarity and carat.

But pricing is just one part of the decision. For some, the idea of wearing a naturally formed diamond — created by the Earth over millions of years — holds a certain significance and romance that synthetic options can’t replace. Others are drawn to the innovation and sustainability of lab-created stones.

Sustainability of Lab & Natural Diamonds

Lab-grown diamonds, in this context, offer real peace of mind. There’s no mining involved, no ecological disruption, and traceable supply chains. At Fallers, we work only with reputable suppliers of both lab-grown and natural diamonds — but the reduced footprint of lab-created stones is a major reason why they’ve surged in popularity, particularly with environmentally conscious buyers and younger couples.

That said, natural diamonds still have their place — especially when it comes to long-term value and tradition. Many still hold better resale value over time and are viewed as heirloom pieces, meant to be passed on. They carry a legacy that can feel deeply personal. That’s something a lab-grown diamond, for all its advantages, is still working to match in the minds of some buyers.

Which Diamond Should You Choose?

The reality is that both lab-grown and natural diamonds have their place, and the right choice will depend on your personal values, budget, and what you’re hoping to get from the piece.

If you’re working within a budget but want a beautiful, high-quality diamond, lab-grown may be ideal. You’ll get more for your money and can still select from a range of certified stones. If tradition, long-term value, and rarity are important to you, or if you’re purchasing a piece to pass on through generations, a natural diamond may offer the peace of mind and heritage you’re looking for.

Our Approach at Fallers Jewellers

At Fallers, we believe in providing you with all the facts—without pressure. We offer both lab-grown and natural diamonds, and we’re proud to help you explore every option in a way that suits your lifestyle and values. Whether you visit us here in Galway or browse our collection online, our team is here to support your journey with honest advice and exceptional service.

Whichever path you choose, know that your diamond will be a reflection of something far greater than where or how it was made. It’s a symbol of love, of meaning, and of a moment worth remembering.

Find the perfect engagement ring for you today.

Need help deciding?
Visit our Galway showroom or book a one-to-one consultation with one of our diamond specialists. We’re here to help you find the perfect fit—naturally or otherwise.