April is Earth Month which is a good time to reflect on the choices we make and how they impact the world around us. As someone who lives and breathes fine jewelry, I often get asked: "Are lab-grown diamonds really more sustainable than natural ones?" It's a valid question.. and a complicated one.
Let me walk you through both sides.
"In recent years, the industry has made remarkable progress in improving transparency, traceability, and environmental practices."
Understanding Lab-Grown Diamonds
Lab-grown diamonds are created in controlled environments using High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) or Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) methods. They are chemically and visually identical to natural diamonds and are often marketed as the more sustainable, ethical, and affordable choice.
Pros:
No mining required, which reduces direct land disruption.
Supply chains are generally traceable.
More budget-friendly, offering larger stones at lower prices.
Cons:
The production process is extremely energy-intensive, especially when powered by fossil fuels.
Most are produced in China and India, where coal is still a dominant power source.
Prices are dropping rapidly due to oversupply, affecting resale and long-term value.
Understanding Natural Diamonds
Natural diamonds are formed over billions of years beneath the Earth’s surface and extracted through regulated mining. In recent years, the industry has made remarkable progress in improving transparency, traceability, and environmental practices.
Pros:
Typically retain more value over time.
Ethically mined diamonds support entire communities, from education to healthcare.
Advanced traceability tools (including blockchain) have made provenance more transparent than ever.
Cons:
Mining can impact the environment if not managed properly.
Some regions still struggle with unethical mining practices.
The Real Impact: What the Numbers Show
A 2023 study reported that lab-grown diamonds can emit up to three times more CO₂ per carat than responsibly mined natural diamonds if produced using coal-powered electricity. In contrast, leading mining operations recycle up to 80% of their water and are investing in carbon-neutral practices.
The U.S. Federal Trade Commission has also warned against marketing lab-grown diamonds as inherently "eco-friendly" without supporting evidence. This proves that sustainability isn't just about what you avoid (like mining), but how thoughtfully you produce.
Traceability, Machinery & Transparency
With over 20 specialized machines in circulation globally, gemological labs can now distinguish lab-grown from natural diamonds using spectroscopy, UV analysis, and more. Meanwhile, buyers are placing increasing importance on traceability: knowing where a diamond came from, how it was made, and who it impacted.
This speaks to a broader trend: conscious luxury. A diamond’s story—its journey and values—matters just as much as its sparkle.
"Consciousness extends from the diamond to the designer, and to the story you choose to wear."
The Mindset Shift: Consciousness as the 5th C
Today, consumers are not just comparing the 4 Cs (cut, clarity, color, carat) but also a fifth: consciousness . I believe this shift in mindset is one of the most powerful evolutions in our industry.
It's no longer about what’s trending; it’s about personal alignment. Where did this stone come from? Who did it support? Will I feel proud wearing this for decades to come?
And beyond the stone itself, ask: what does the company you are buying from stand for? Do their values align with your lifestyle and mindset? Are they producing consciously, treating their artisans fairly, and designing with intention? Consciousness extends from the diamond to the designer, and to the story you choose to wear.
I see more clients choosing pieces not because they're in fashion, but because they resonate on a personal level. Whether it’s a birthstone, an heirloom piece, or a ring crafted to mark a career milestone—the meaning behind the purchase is driving decision-making more than ever.
While lab-grown diamonds have opened up access and affordability, natural diamonds still carry unmatched historical, cultural, and emotional weight. The fact that a stone was formed a billion years ago? That still gives me goosebumps.
My Perspective
As a designer, I fully respect both sides of the debate. Sustainability is not one-size-fits-all and there is no shame in choosing what fits your ethics, style, and budget.
But I have chosen to work exclusively with natural diamonds that are ethically sourced and certified.
Why? Because I believe in investing in pieces that are steeped in provenance. Jewelry is not just about beauty. It’s about memory, intention, and identity. And when a diamond is created by the Earth itself, nurtured by skilled artisans, and designed to live beyond trends.. that, to me, is true sustainability.
Which brings me to this Earth Month, I encourage you to look deeper. Don’t just ask what you’re buying but ask why. Understand the impact, the legacy, the story. And above all, remember that the most sustainable choice isn’t about buying more but it’s about buying better.
Here’s a quick guide to help you choose:
Value long-term over short-lived trends.
Ask about origin and energy. Is your diamond traceable? Was it created or mined responsibly?
Look beyond the stone. Consider what the brand stands for. Do they align with your lifestyle and mindset?
Prioritize quality over quantity. You don’t need to own many; you need to own what matters.
Shop with the 5th C in mind: Consciousness. Let your jewelry reflect your values, your story, and your future.
Whether you choose lab-grown or natural, let it be intentional. Because a diamond is forever and so is how you feel wearing it.
