What Are Natural Diamonds? | Zales
Whether you're shopping for an engagement ring like no other, one-of-a-kind diamond studs to celebrate an anniversary, or a diamond accent for a necklace or bracelet, a natural diamond will never disappoint. Here's what you should know about natural diamonds before you start shopping.
How Natural Diamonds Are Formed
Created deep in the earth over billions of years, a natural diamond is the hardest known substance on earth. They are formed from carbon deposits subject to extreme heat and pressure. While many diamonds are white or "colorless," it's normal for them to take on a yellowish tint from the other minerals they come into contact with as they grow. Eventually, the stone will travel to the earth's surface via molten rock, where it is mined, refined, and turned into the diamonds used for jewelry.
The 4Cs, cut, clarity, carat, and color, determine the quality of a diamond. These four features are graded separately but work together to give a stone its value.
The 4Cs, cut, clarity, carat, and color, determine the quality of a diamond. These four features are graded separately but work together to give a stone its value.
Responsible Sourcing
For our customers, a diamond is a symbol of love and commitment. As part of Signet Jewelers, the world's largest diamond retailer, Zales has a responsibility to not only set a good example of providing responsibly sourced natural diamonds but also to be a leader in developing standards that make responsible sourcing the norm. While you browse our selection of diamond jewelry, rest assured that all the natural—and lab-grown—diamonds we provide are 100% conflict-free.
Natural Diamonds Vs. Lab-Grown Diamonds
The choice between a natural diamond and a lab-grown diamond is a personal one. While they share the same optical, chemical, and physical properties, natural and lab-grown diamonds can differ in reputation and long-term value. At Zales, our goal is to help you determine the right diamond for your needs. Learn more about the differences between natural and lab-grown diamonds and discover the best diamond option for you.
| Zales Diamond Comparison | Natural Diamond | Lab‑Grown Diamond |
|---|---|---|
| Is it a Diamond? | Yes | Yes |
| Primary Chemical Composition | Carbon | Carbon |
| Source | The Earth | A Laboratory |
| Age | 1 - 3 billion years | Several Weeks to Months |
| Supply/Rarity | Finite and rare | Potentially unlimited |
| Independently Certified | Yes* | Yes* |
| 100% Conflict-Free | Yes | Yes |
| Likely to Maintain Long-Term Value | Historically, yes | Unknown at this Time |
| Included in the Lifetime Diamond Commitment | Yes | Yes |
| Eligible for Trade-In | Yes | Yes |
| Price Comparison | $$$ | $$ |
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*Select styles and carat weights |
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While lab-grown diamonds exhibit the identical optical, physical, and chemical properties as natural diamonds, their core difference is their origin and the time they took to form. Natural diamonds take billions of years to form and are considered a finite resource.
Both natural diamonds and lab-grown diamonds vary in their diamond grading. Natural diamonds are incredible feats of nature and are considered a more traditional choice. A natural diamond is often considered a status symbol and is more likely to hold its value over time, but the "better" option depends on your unique needs, style, and budget.
Natural diamonds are grown deep in the earth from carbon deposits that withstand extreme heat and pressure over billions of years. They are excavated from mines worldwide, including Australia, South Africa, India, and more. Zales is dedicated to ensuring our natural diamonds come from 100% conflict-free sources.
Neither is inherently higher quality, as both lab-grown and natural diamonds are available in a range of colors, cuts, clarity, and carat weights.
Yes, we provide the same warranties and service plans for both natural and lab-grown diamonds.
Your natural diamond will be accompanied by an independent laboratory report detailing its "4 Cs" - cut, color, clarity, and carat weight.
Because lab-grown diamonds have the same optical, chemical, and physical characteristics as natural diamonds, they cannot be distinguished even with a professional loupe under 10x magnification. That's why Zales' lab-grown diamonds are inscribed with "lab-grown diamond" on the girdle.
A natural diamond has traditionally maintained its value. Since they are a finite resource, their rarity suggests they will maintain their value or increase in value as they become harder to find. People might want to pass jewelry made with natural diamonds down through generations or reuse natural diamonds for new pieces of jewelry.