What Are Ethically Sourced Diamonds and Should I Choose a Natural or Lab-Grown Diamond for My Engagement Ring?

Hello, I'm Morgan, co-owner of Morgan & Co Jewellery on the beautiful Sunshine Coast. Today, I'd like to share some insights about ethically sourced diamonds and help you decide whether a natural or lab-grown diamond is the right choice for your engagement ring.

What Are Ethically Sourced Diamonds?

Ethically sourced diamonds are diamonds that are mined or created with a focus on ethical practices, ensuring they do not contribute to environmental harm, human rights abuses, or funding of conflicts. These diamonds are traced from their origin to ensure they comply with strict labor, trade, and environmental standards. Compared to traditional natural diamonds, which can sometimes come from conflict zones and have a higher environmental impact, ethically sourced diamonds offer a more responsible and sustainable option. 

Natural Diamonds vs. Lab-Grown Diamonds

Natural Diamonds —

Natural diamonds are formed deep within the Earth's mantle over billions of years. Their unique geological journey makes each one truly one-of-a-kind. Natural diamonds often come with a premium price tag due to their rarity, the extensive mining process, and the higher costs associated with ethical sourcing.

Lab-Grown Diamonds —

Lab-grown diamonds, otherwise known as cultured cured diamonds, on the other hand, are created in controlled laboratory environments using advanced technology that replicates the natural diamond formation process. These diamonds are chemically, physically, and optically identical to natural diamonds but come at a fraction of the price. The lower cost is due to the shorter production time and more efficient manufacturing process. You can not tell the difference between a lab grown and natural diamond, not even a trained gemologist can determine the difference. It takes thousand of dollars worth of machinery to distinguish the difference between the two types of diamonds. 

View our collection of Most Loved Engagement Ring Designs.

The Value of Lab-Grown and Natural Diamonds

Natural Diamonds —

Natural diamonds have long been seen as a symbol of romance, love and commitment. They often hold more traditional value and are considered by some to be more prestigious due to their natural origin and rarity. 

Lab-Grown Diamonds —

Lab-grown diamonds are a fantastic alternative for those who want a stunning, high-quality diamond without the higher price tag. They are often more affordable, allowing you to get a larger or higher quality diamond within your budget. Additionally, they are considered more environmentally friendly, as they don't require mining.

You can achieve between a .80ct brilliant round natural diamond of reasonable quality for approximately $10,000 - $12,000. For the same price, you would get change from a 2ct highest quality lab grown diamond. 

Why Is There a Big Price Difference?

The price difference between natural and lab-grown diamonds is primarily due to the production process and market perception. Natural diamonds require extensive mining operations, which are costly and labor-intensive. Lab-grown diamonds are produced more efficiently and quickly, reducing the overall cost. However, both types of diamonds offer beautiful, high-quality options for your engagement ring.

Ethically Sourced Diamonds at Morgan & Co

At Morgan & Co, we are committed to sourcing the highest quality ethical diamonds, both natural and lab-grown. We believe in offering our clients choices that align with their values and preferences. Whether you choose a natural or lab-grown diamond, there's no right or wrong decision—it's a personal choice based on your priorities and budget.

Why Choose Morgan & Co?

As Sunshine Coast's number one jeweller for custom-made rings, we pride ourselves on providing exceptional service and quality. We offer free consultations where we educate couples about diamonds and guide them through the process of selecting their perfect stone. Our consultations are an opportunity for you to learn about the differences between natural and lab-grown diamonds, understand ethical sourcing, and choose the diamond that best suits your needs and most importantly, your budget. 

We believe in creating unique, one-of-a-kind pieces that reflect you and your personal style as well as a symbol of your love. Book your free consultation with us today, and let's start designing your dream engagement ring together.

Thank you for considering Morgan & Co Jewellery. We look forward to helping you create a beautiful, ethically sourced engagement ring that you'll cherish forever.

For more information or to schedule your consultation, visit Morgan & Co Jewellery on the Sunshine Coast. Let's make your engagement ring as unique and special as you and your love story.

Love,
Morgan x

July 07, 2024 — Morgan Gaskin

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