As a retailer, you're more than a seller; you’re a storyteller, a guide, and a trusted voice. With both natural and synthetic diamonds on the market, your role in providing accurate, balanced information is more essential than ever.

Not everyone will be drawn to the finer details, and that’s okay, but the next generation of consumers is asking questions, and we want to give you the tools to answer them confidently. 

Natural diamonds and synthetic-grown diamonds are two different product categories. Both have a place in the market. Directly comparing them on value, meaning, or impact is not helpful to consumers and only perpetuates misinformation. Our intent with this page is to present the facts so that individuals across society can exercise their judgment.

We gathered a wide range of sources to create a guide that combines consumer-facing clarity with midstream insights, helping you position yourself confidently in a complex product landscape. 

Consumers are increasingly aware of the debate between synthetic and natural diamonds, but not always well-informed. Here are some of the most persistent misconceptions:

• “They’re the same.” They may look similar, but only natural diamonds, formed over billions of years beneath the Earth, are genuine.
• “Lab diamonds are better for the planet.” Not always. Unless powered by clean energy (which applies to fewer than 25% of producers), their emissions are high.
• “Lab diamonds are just cheaper.” They are cheaper upfront, but their long-term value tends to decline rapidly.
• “You can’t tell the difference.” You can. More than 20 professional instruments exist to verify a diamond’s origin using grain patterns, trace elements, and fluorescence.
• “Lab-grown diamonds are new.” Synthetic diamonds may seem modern, but they’ve been around for over 70 years. The first synthetic jewelry-quality stones appeared on the market in the 1970s.
   

Left unaddressed, these myths can lead to buyer confusion, post-sale regret, or erosion of trust in both product and seller. 

As a retailer, you're more than a seller; you’re a storyteller, a guide, and a trusted voice. But how can you combine those roles without losing credibility? 

There are plenty of stories out there, but it’s up to you to find a way to tell them. Below is a list of sources that you can refer to, and make your own.

The Natural Diamond Council (NDC), the official marketing body of the natural diamond industry, has created these insightful reports that share facts you can adopt in your communication and style. Additionally, they’ve compiled an excellent resource list that can also be utilized.

Topics: https://www.naturaldiamonds.com/trade/industry-reports-research/
 

The list of the Natural Diamond Council Reports: 

Laboratory-grown diamond facts 

• More than 70% of synthetic diamonds are mass-produced in factories in China and India. 
• The manufacturing process is energy-intensive, requiring sustained temperatures upwards of around 2000°F (1,093°C) and large amounts of water to cool reactors. 
• The price of a 1.5-carat synthetic diamond has fallen 86% from $10,750 in mid-2015 to $1,455 in 2025. 
• Data supplied by analysts Edahn Golan on wholesale prices and Paul Zimnisky on retail prices shows that the wholesale price for a 1ct round near colourless (FGH) high-clarity (VS1) synthetic diamond is now just 5% of what it was seven years ago in 2018 (i.e., it has fallen by 95%), while the retail price is 24% of what it was in 2018 (a fall of 76%). 
• Analysis by Paul Zimnisky over the last five years shows that the average retail margin on synthetic diamonds has increased from 46% to 84%. Put another way, this means the average mark-up on synthetic diamonds has increased from 85% to over 500%.
• Source 
   

Natural Diamond Trends, A 2024 Overview

• Round Diamonds remain the mainstay of the market, accounting for 82% of the center stones in natural diamond jewellery in 2024. At the same time, more consumers are choosing to express their individuality through fancy shapes, particularly elongated silhouettes like Oval diamonds, which extend the look and elegance of the hand. 
• VS-clarity diamonds are gaining popularity, whereas SI (Slightly Included) diamonds have long been the sweet spot for American consumers. 
• Consumers are gradually moving out of the 1-carat comfort zone, opting for larger diamonds for center stones. 
• Rings are the most popular category of diamond jewellery, followed by earrings. 
• The share of natural diamond jewellery by sales value is 33% bridal and 67% non-bridal (other natural diamond jewellery).
• Source
   

Diamond Facts

• The positive impact of natural diamonds, with examples from producing countries as well as manufacturing.
• Environmental stewardship.
• Diamond verification.
• Information on pricing and production.
• Disclosure and diamond terminology.
• Traceability and responsible sourcing of natural diamonds.
• Source
   

Diamonds of Botswana

• Natural diamonds have underpinned Botswana’s rise from the third-poorest country in the world to a vibrant, middle-income country. Now, Botswana is home to many skilled workers whose families benefit from largely free education, universal healthcare, and paved roads. 
• Botswana is the second-largest diamond producer in the world, where diamonds account for nearly a third of its fiscal revenue and a quarter of the country’s GDP. The diamond industry has been set up to deliver long-term, sustainable prosperity, facilitated by fair governments and collaborative, community-minded partners. That’s why diamonds remain a force for good in Botswana.
• Source
   

Diamonds of Canada

• Canada’s diamonds include some of the oldest in the world, dating back 3.5 billion years.
• Most of Canada’s diamonds are produced in the Far North, specifically in the Northwest Territories (NWT), which is home to 11 official languages and a population of approximately 45,000, with half of the population identifying as Indigenous. 
• Since the beginning of diamond recovery, a total of C$27.7 billion has been infused into Canada’s economy. 70% of spending was done locally in the NWT, totaling C$19.3B with NWT businesses and $8.6B with Indigenous businesses.
• Diamond mines have contributed 52% of the Government of NWT’s revenues from corporate income tax, property tax, fuel tax, and carbon tax in the past three years.
• The largest off-grid solar plant in Canada’s North was established at the Diavik diamond mine, demonstrating that renewable energy is feasible in the sub-Arctic region.
• Since 1996, diamonds have generated 74,210 person years of cumulative employment.
• Source
   

As well as De Beers Insight Reports, Federal Trade Commission Jewelry Guides, and Advertising Vocabulary. 

With both natural and synthetic diamonds on the market, your role in providing accurate, balanced information is more essential than ever.

Natural Diamonds

Natural diamonds are formed 100 to 200 kilometers below the Earth’s surface, under intense heat and pressure. They take between 500 million and 3.7 billion years to form - that’s older than life on Earth itself. 

A common misconception is that extracting diamonds relies on chemicals. In reality, diamond mining is a mechanical process. 

So, are natural diamonds rare? Yes, and that’s what makes them extraordinary. 

All the 1-carat natural diamonds discovered in a year could fit into a single 50-litre suitcase. That’s how rare they are. Their natural scarcity, combined with their incredible journey from Earth’s depths to your hand, gives them a timeless, emotional value. This rarity is part of their magic. Consumer research consistently indicates that rarity significantly contributes to the perceived emotional value of fine jewelry purchases. 

Source: NDC, Returns of a Different Kind. 
 

Synthetic Diamonds

How are synthetic diamonds made? 

Scientists have spent decades engineering synthetic alternatives to replicate the hardness, optical properties, and thermal conductivity of natural diamonds in a more scalable and affordable manner, enabling their use in industrial and technological applications. 

There are two main processes used to create synthetic diamonds. The production method used does not affect the look or cost of the polished product. 

Both methods require a tiny diamond crystal, called a “seed,” to serve as a base upon which the stone can be grown. The seed can be natural, but it is commonly grown in a laboratory. 

The size of a synthetic diamond depends on the time allowed for growth. 
 

High Pressure, High Temperature (HPHT) Method

To create a diamond using the HPHT method, reactors replicate extreme natural conditions, such as immense pressure (5–6 GPa) and temperatures nearing 1,650°C (3,000°F). This process transforms graphite into a distinctively shaped synthetic diamond crystal in a fraction of the time it takes nature. 
 

Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) Method

This newer method involves breaking down the molecules of a carbon-rich gas, such as methane, into carbon and hydrogen atoms at temperatures of around 1,100°C (2,000°F). These atoms are then deposited onto a seed plate to produce a square-shaped diamond crystal. 

Source: NDC Report p. 12 - 13 

Synthetic diamonds are manufactured products that have the same crystal structure as natural diamonds and have nearly the same chemical, physical, and optical properties when polished. However, they are not identical and can be distinguished with professional equipment. They are created in weeks, not billions of years. Think of them more like a high-tech product than a natural wonder.

These diamonds are manufactured in factories, often using high-energy processes that rely on fossil fuels, since the reactors must sustain high temperatures for weeks. Cooling the reactors requires large amounts of water. Because they can be produced on demand and at scale, synthetic diamonds are not rare, and their abundance affects both pricing and perceived value.

Over 70% of synthetic diamonds are produced in India and China, where fossil fuels are a primary source of energy.  

However, some producers use renewable energy. To verify sustainability, ask your supplier for:

• A sustainability certification verifying that the synthetic diamond’s carbon footprint is offset 
• Confirmation that the diamond can be traced throughout the supply chain 
• Proof that it meets strict social and environmental standards 
• Documentation that the diamond was produced with a net-zero environmental impact 
   

But what should you be looking for?  (https://www.awdc.be/retail)  

Confusing terminology? We’ve made a Diamond Glossary that could help

Claims that synthetic and natural diamonds are identical and impossible to tell apart are false.

Diamond crystals grow differently in nature than in a lab. Their grain patterns, like those in wood, vary. While these differences may not always be visible to the naked eye, they can be detected using specialized instruments. 

More than 20 verification tools are available to industry professionals. These assessments examine spectral signatures, composition, grain patterns, and ultraviolet fluorescence to determine whether a diamond formed billions of years ago on Earth or was recently synthesized in a laboratory. 

For example, the production of colorless synthetic diamonds requires the near-complete removal of nitrogen, which is present in about 99% of natural diamonds. Natural impurities and growth conditions also affect fluorescence. 

The Natural Diamond Council’s (NDC) ASSURE program evaluates diamond verification tools to guide industry professionals. These tools are essential for maintaining supply chain integrity and preventing the mixing of natural and synthetic stones. 

Source: https://issuu.com/naturaldiamondcouncil/docs/ndc_diamond_reports_laboratory-grown_diamond_fact p. 11 

Did you know: Some natural diamonds fluoresce when they are exposed to long-wave ultraviolet (UV) rays from sources like the sun. Only 25% to 35% of natural diamonds exhibit some degree of fluorescence, with more than 95% of these exhibiting a blue fluorescence. A rare few fluoresce other colors, such as yellow or green. 

Fluorescence is not a grading factor like the 4Cs (color, clarity, cut, and carat weight), but it is an identifying characteristic. Diamond Grading Reports describe a diamond’s fluorescence by its intensity under long-wave UV light (None, Faint, Medium, Strong, and Very Strong).  

Why is this interesting? Because consumers are now actively seeking diamonds with fluorescence and inclusions to ensure they are buying natural diamonds. They are even willing to pay a premium for this.

Source: https://4cs.gia.edu/en-us/blog/diamond-fluorescence-good-bad/#:~:text=Fluorescence%20is%20the%20glow%20you,the%20fluorescence%20will%20be%20noted. 

The term “diamond” used on its own must always refer to a natural diamond. 

Only three terms are accepted for synthetic diamonds: 

• Laboratory-grown diamonds 
• Laboratory-created diamonds 
• Synthetic diamonds* 
   

*Terminology may vary by national regulation. France, the United States, and the United Kingdom all have their version of the same. 

Terms such as “man-made,” “cultured,” or “above-ground” should not be used in isolation, as they may be confusing. 

Source: NDC Report, P. 8-9 
 

Why does this matter? Some websites list “diamond rings,” only revealing in their FAQs that all stones are synthetic. We believe consumers deserve complete transparency. 

If you have an online shop, disclosure is everything. 
 

Legislation for Belgian Jewellers

As of May 1, 2023, in Belgium, retailers are required to disclose the following before finalizing any sale involving natural or synthetic diamonds: 

• Whether the item contains natural or synthetic diamonds 
• Whether the diamonds are treated or untreated 
• The number and weight of the diamonds 
• The nature of any treatments applied 
   

The template for this information is available on our website in Dutch and French. 

More details: AWDC Legislation 

Did you know: Jewelers in Belgium are required to provide this information to their clients on paper (not just digitally). However, if they don’t, we’ve advised consumers of their right to request this. 

More details: AWDC Legislation 

Source: NDC Report, P. 8-9
 

Most common terminology mistakes:

• Use one of the following authorised qualifiers when referring to synthetic diamonds: “synthetic”, “laboratory-grown”, or “laboratory-created”.
• Do not use “Carats” when referring to the weight of synthetic diamonds; that should be expressed in “grams”. 
• Do not use abbreviations such as “lab-grown” and “lab-created”.
• Do not use the following terms: “cultured diamonds” and “cultivated diamonds” as “cultured” and “cultivated” refer exclusively to organic/biogenic products.
• Do not use the following terms: “real”, “genuine”, “precious”, “authentic”, and “natural,” as those apply exclusively to natural minerals and gemstones.
   

Compliance with global and national terminology laws is essential for legal and reputational risk management. This responsibility also falls with your supplier. If you do buy both natural and synthetic diamonds, you must ensure accurate labeling, disclosure, and documentation in all transactions.

Example:  In France, only the term "synthetic" is legally permitted for describing laboratory-grown diamonds, emphasizing the importance of region-specific compliance.

Today, a synthetic diamond ring that costs just €230 to produce (€140 for the 14-karat gold setting and €90 for the 0.2-gram synthetic diamond) might retail for €2,300. In ten years, the cost to produce that same synthetic diamond could drop to as little as €5. 

• Since 2018, the average price for a 1-carat, near-colorless, VS1 LGD has dropped  95% at wholesale and 76% at retail.
• The retail margin on LGDs has surged to 84%, highlighting inflated consumer pricing.
• Natural diamonds, in contrast, retain approximately 70% of their original value.
   

A 1.5-carat synthetic diamond that sold for €10,750 in 2016 is now worth about €1,455.

Sources: Edahn Golan, Paul Zimnisky, Bain & Company 

We understand that not everyone is drawn to the finer details. For many, it’s about the meaning and memory behind the piece.

“Are synthetic diamonds more sustainable?”

Not necessarily.
 

Sustainability depends on various factors, including energy source, water usage, chemical handling, and working conditions. Synthetic production is highly energy-intensive, often relying on fossil fuels for its operations. 
 

Carbon Claims

Synthetic diamonds often require temperatures exceeding 1,100°C (2,000°F). Over 70% are produced in China and India, countries where energy grids rely heavily on coal. 

“Carbon-neutral” claims are typically achieved through offsetting and often apply only to rough production, rather than the entire supply chain. 
 

Carbon Capture

Some companies claim carbon capture as an environmental benefit. However, 1 carat of synthetic diamond stores just 0.2 grams of carbon, equal to one or two emails. A mature tree absorbs 48 pounds (over 21,000 grams) of CO2 annually. 
 

Other Greenwashing Risks

• Claims of “mine-free” overlook the need for mined materials in reactors. 
• Water-intensive cooling systems operate in water-stressed regions. 
• Energy efficiency varies widely between facilities. 
   

Social Impact

Synthetic diamond manufacturing supports fewer jobs and offers limited community benefits. In contrast, the natural diamond industry supports about 10 million people globally, providing jobs, education, and infrastructure. 

Source: World Diamond Council 
 

Responsible Natural Diamond Mining: A Commitment Beyond Extraction

Today’s leading diamond mines operate under strict environmental and labor standards, with a clear focus on sustainability that extends beyond the mining phase.

Take the renowned Argyle Mine in Australia, famous for its rare pink diamonds. Though operations ceased in November 2020 after 37 years, closure was far from simple.

Responsible mine closure at Argyle includes:

• Full Decommissioning: All processing infrastructure was dismantled, with materials safely disposed of, repurposed, or recycled.
• Land Restoration: Over 9 million cubic meters of land were reshaped across former waste and tailings sites.
• Revegetation Efforts: A multi-year program is underway to re-establish native ecosystems.
• Ongoing Rehabilitation: 542 hectares have been restored so far, with a target of 2,000 hectares.
• Long-Term Oversight: Monitoring and maintenance will continue for at least 10 years.
   

This level of environmental accountability reflects the standards set by responsible natural diamond producers worldwide.

Source: NDC 

To serve your customers better, demand clarity and compliance from your diamond suppliers. Ask for:

• For natural diamonds: country of origin, Kimberley Process compliance, and beneficiation details.
• For synthetics: energy source used, sustainability certifications, and supply chain traceability.
• Ask if the stones have been screened for synthetics.
• Where appropriate, buy diamonds with certificates from accredited labs (GIA, IGI, HRD).
• The report must clearly state whether a stone is natural or synthetic and disclose any treatments it has undergone.
• Avoid using carats for Synthetics unless legally permitted; use grams where required.
   

Conclusion

You’re more than a salesperson; you’re a guide. Helping customers make confident, informed choices ensures satisfaction and long-term trust. Whether they choose a synthetic or natural diamond, you can ensure that they’ve made an informed decision.