Choosing the right diamond—whether natural or lab-grown—is a decision that reflects not just personal taste but also values and expectations for quality and sustainability. Christine Razny-Porter, Razny Jewelers' third-generation owner, Graduate Gemologist and creator of Refined by Razny, a new line of modern diamond essentials, breaks down the three facts you need to know to make the right choice for you.
Lab-Grown Diamonds Are Not Always Planet-Friendly
Are lab-grown diamonds the answer to climate concerns? No. According to research, producing one polished carat in a lab releases 511kg of greenhouse gases, more than three times what is created by mining one natural diamond of similar size. The truth is that fossil fuels are usually required to replicate the amount of pressure and heat our earth naturally creates underground when making mined diamonds.
Only Natural Diamonds Support Communities
Ethically mining natural diamonds prioritizes people and our planet, reducing waste and providing skilled jobs to societies around the globe. Responsible jewelers choose mines established with the cooperation of trustworthy governments, humanitarian organizations and local citizens. In these settings, working conditions must exceed international standards for ethics and trade. These efforts result in mining practices that return unused earth to the environment while equipping families with the education and opportunities needed to ensure their communities thrive for years to come.
The Value of a Real Diamond
Natural diamonds are the best choice when a couple is looking for an investment in their future. If you upgrade to a larger carat diamond, natural diamonds make this process easy since they've appreciated by approximately 3% annually over the last 35 years. Lab-grown diamonds, on the other hand, continue to decline due to mass production and widespread availability. It’s crucial to select a reputable jeweler who uses advanced technology to identify natural diamonds. In fact, many fine jewelers may decline to service lab-grown diamond rings due to the potential impact on the piece’s longevity and fear other customers will doubt the integrity of their jewelry.
Lab-Grown Diamonds are Not Identical to Real Diamonds
When magnified, the growth patterns within lab diamonds reveal their origins. Experts can tell how a diamond was created by using UV light. These characteristics are not only important when considering long-term value but also the romantic allure of the stone. A naturally grown diamond carries a different essence and mystique than one manufactured in a laboratory.
Razny Jewelers, Chicago’s top family-owned and operated jeweler, has remained devoted to ethically sourced natural diamonds for over 70 years. Today, Razny Jewelers has remained owned and run by the Razny family, a testament to its commitment to family values and tradition. To learn more about Razny Jewelers, visit Razny.com or discover more about the unmatched brilliance of natural diamonds here.
Photography by: Courtesy of Razny Jewelers
