Lab-grown and natural diamonds are chemically and optically identical — both are pure crystallised carbon. The difference is origin, rarity and price.
Natural diamonds
Formed over billions of years under the Earth's crust. Rare, finite and historically the store-of-value people expect from fine jewellery. Best when you want long-term value, heirloom pieces or a stone with a story.
Lab-grown diamonds
Grown over weeks in a controlled environment using CVD or HPHT. Identical sparkle, hardness and grading, at roughly 30–50% of the price of a comparable natural. Best when you want size and quality on a fixed budget, or a modern piece.
Resale value
Natural diamonds hold significantly more of their value on resale; lab-grown prices have fallen year on year. Neither is "better" — they answer different questions.
Altin recommends
We stock and cut both. In an engagement ring for long-term wear, most of our clients still choose natural. For statement earrings, tennis bracelets and travel jewellery, lab-grown is often the smarter choice.