Diamonds hold a deep cultural and emotional significance in Japan. From engagement rings to anniversary gifts and status symbols, they represent lasting love, commitment, and elegance. With recent technological advances, consumers now face a new decision:
Should you go with a natural diamond formed over billions of years beneath the Earth’s surface, or choose a lab grown diamond crafted with cutting-edge science?
This guide will walk you through the key differences, advantages, and trade-offs between natural and lab grown diamonds to help you make a confident, value-aligned choice.
What Is a Natural Diamond?
Definition: A natural diamond is a gemstone formed through high pressure and temperature deep within the Earth over a period of billions of years.
Key Characteristics:
- Formed naturally in the Earth’s mantle
- Mined from the Earth (typically Africa, Russia, Canada, Australia)
- Each diamond is unique and has a traceable Diamonds history
Perceived Value in Japan:
- Strong association with tradition, heritage, and social status
- Preferred for formal and ceremonial jewelry
- High resale value and collector appeal
What Is a Lab Grown Diamond?
Definition: A lab grown diamond (also known as a synthetic or cultured diamond) is created in a laboratory under conditions that mimic the natural diamond formation process.
Creation Methods:
- HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature)
- CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition)
Key Characteristics:
- Chemically, optically, and physically identical to natural diamonds
- Made in a matter of weeks
- Typically costs 30–70% less than natural diamonds
Perception in Japan:
- Seen as a smart, ethical, and innovative choice
- Popular among eco-conscious and younger consumers
- Gaining popularity in fashion-forward jewelry and casual luxury
Natural Diamond vs Lab Grown Diamond: Side-by-Side Comparison
| S.No. | Feature | Natural Diamond | Lab Grown Diamond |
| 1 | Origin | Formed underground over billions of years | Created in a lab within weeks |
| 2 | Price | More expensive | 30–70% cheaper |
| 3 | Environmental Impact | High (mining, land disruption) | Lower (less water and carbon emissions) |
| 4 | Resale Value | Generally retains value | Lower resale and trade-in value |
| 5 | Uniqueness | Each stone is one-of-a-kind | Identical stones can be produced |
| 6 | Certification | Certified by GIA, AGS, etc. | Certified by IGI, GCAL, and others |
| 7 | Ethics | Risk of conflict diamonds if not certified | Ethically sourced by design |
6 Crucial Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Natural and Lab-Grown Diamonds
1. Budget
- Natural diamonds cost more due to rarity and mining costs.
- Lab diamonds offer significant savings, allowing you to buy a bigger or higher-grade stone for the same price.
Tip: If you want to maximize sparkle without breaking the bank, lab grown may be the better option.
2. Purpose of Purchase
- For weddings, heirlooms, or long-term investments, natural diamonds may be more fitting due to their traditional appeal and lasting value.
- For fashion jewelry or personal use, lab diamonds offer flexibility and affordability.
3. Environmental & Ethical Considerations
- Natural diamond mining has historically been linked to ecological damage and questionable labor practices.
- Lab grown diamonds are more sustainable and typically produced with ethical labor standards.
Eco-conscious consumers in Japan are increasingly favoring lab grown options.
4. Resale & Long-Term Value
- Natural diamonds tend to retain more resale value and are often seen as a long-term asset.
- Lab grown diamonds have lower resale value due to their mass production.
Important for collectors or investors.
5. Cultural or Sentimental Significance
- In Japanese culture, traditional values and symbolism matter. Natural diamonds still carry an unmatched aura of permanence and prestige.
- Lab diamonds appeal more to a modern, minimalistic, and pragmatic lifestyle.
6. Visual Appearance & Quality
- Both types are indistinguishable to the naked eye.
- Both can be graded on the 4Cs (cut, color, clarity, carat).
Fun fact: Even experts need special tools to tell the difference!
Common Misconceptions – Let’s Clear the Air
Myth 1: Lab Diamonds Are Fake
False. They are real diamonds with identical chemical structure. They’re not cubic zirconia or moissanite.
Myth 2: Lab Diamonds Don’t Sparkle as Much
False. They offer the same brilliance as natural diamonds.
Myth 3: Natural Diamonds Are Always Ethically Sourced
Partially true. Unless it’s certified conflict-free (e.g., Kimberley Process), this can’t be guaranteed.
Myth 4: You Can’t Insure Lab Diamonds
False. They can be insured just like natural diamonds, though resale value may differ.
Shopping Tips for Japanese Consumers
Choose a Reputable Jeweler
- Look for sellers with proper certifications (Precious Lab, IGI, etc.)
- Check customer reviews and after-sales services
Verify Diamond Certification
- Insist on certification for both types of diamonds
- GIA, AGS for natural; IGI or Precious Lab for lab grown
Match Your Diamond to Your Lifestyle
- Do you want tradition and long-term value?
- Or do you prefer affordability and sustainability?
Consider Customization Options
Many Japanese jewelers now offer bespoke rings with lab grown stones
Pros & Cons Summary
Natural Diamonds
Pros:
- Historical and cultural significance
- High resale value
- Uniqueness and rarity
Cons:
- Expensive
- Ethical and environmental concerns
Lab Grown Diamonds
Pros:
- Affordable
- Environmentally and ethically sound
- Same beauty and sparkle
Cons:
- Lower resale value
- Lack the "romance" of geologic origin
Conclusion – Which One Is Right for You?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Choosing between a natural and lab grown diamond depends on your values, budget, and purpose.
Choose a natural diamond if:
- You value tradition, rarity, and long-term investment
- You’re buying for a wedding, milestone, or heirloom
Choose a lab grown diamond if:
- You want to be budget-conscious without compromising on sparkle
- You care about sustainability and ethical sourcing
In Japan’s ever-evolving luxury market, both types of diamonds have a place. Whether you follow your heart, your head, or your wallet, the perfect diamond is the one that matches your story.
Bonus: Recommended Jewelry Stores in Japan Offering Both Options
- Precious-Lab – High-end Japanese jeweler offering certified Lab Grown diamonds
- I-PRIMO – Custom bridal rings with natural and lab grown options
- BRILLIANCE+ – Pioneering lab grown diamond retailer in Japan
- K.UNO – Known for bespoke jewelry and ethically sourced gems
Explore our curated collection of 100,000+ certified lab-grown diamonds and 50+ engagement ring styles.
👉 Start Your Journey Today – and discover how simple, smart, and satisfying buying an engagement ring can be.
