One of the most common questions we hear at Solomon Jewelers in Wichita is: should I buy a lab-grown diamond or a natural diamond? The answer depends on what matters most to you — and both are genuinely great choices.
What's the Actual Difference?
Lab-grown diamonds and natural diamonds are chemically, physically, and optically identical. Both are pure carbon in crystalline form. Both score 10 on the Mohs hardness scale. Both are graded by GIA and IGI using the same 4 Cs. The only difference is origin — one formed underground over billions of years, the other grown in a controlled environment over weeks.
The Price Difference Is Real
Lab-grown diamonds typically cost 50–70% less than equivalent natural diamonds. That means you can get a 2-carat lab diamond for roughly the same price as a 1-carat natural diamond of the same quality. Learn how to evaluate that difference in our Diamond 4 Cs guide.
When Natural Diamond Makes Sense
Natural diamonds carry geological origin — formed 1–3 billion years ago deep in the earth. They hold resale value better. If you're thinking of this as a long-term heirloom or investment, natural may be the better choice.
When Lab Diamond Makes Sense
If you want the biggest, most brilliant stone for your budget — lab is unbeatable. Most of our bridal customers under 35 choose lab. See how lab diamonds compare to moissanite in our Moissanite vs Diamond guide.
See Both Side by Side in Wichita
Come into Solomon Jewelers and we'll show you lab and natural diamonds in your price range side by side — no pressure, no agenda.