Lab grown diamonds and value: What buyers should understand in Perth (2026 guide)

This content is provided by a third party.. Buying a diamond is a significant decision that combines emotional meaning with real financial commitment.. For buyers in Perth, the growing availability of lab-grown diamonds has expanded choice in the jewellery market while also raising important questions about value, quality, and long-term worth..

According to Geoscience Australia, natural diamonds have traditionally derived their value from geological rarity, formation time, and limited supply, factors that play a direct role in long-term pricing and resale behaviour within Australia's jewellery market.. This context helps explain why the rise of lab-grown diamonds has changed how value is assessed, particularly for modern buyers focused on affordability and transparency.. As more jewellers across Western Australia offer lab-grown diamonds alongside mined stones, many Perth buyers are now asking the same practical questions:.

Are lab-grown diamonds really worth it?. Do they hold value over time?. How do they compare to natural diamonds in the long run?.

This blog is written specifically for Perth buyers who want clear, factual information before making a purchase.. It explains what lab-grown diamonds are, how their value is measured, how they compare to mined diamonds, and what buyers should realistically expect when it comes to price, resale, and long-term ownership.. Lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds created in controlled laboratory environments rather than mined from the earth..

They have the same chemical composition, crystal structure, hardness, and visual appearance as natural diamonds.. The difference lies only in origin, not quality.. Lab-grown diamonds are produced using advanced technology that replicates the natural conditions under which diamonds form underground..

Once grown, they are cut, polished, and graded in the same way as mined diamonds, using internationally recognised standards.. In Perth, lab grown diamonds are commonly selected through established local jewellers such as Stelios Jewellers, where buyers can view certified stones and compare lab grown and natural options side by side.. In Perth, lab grown diamonds are commonly used in:.

Because they are physically identical to mined diamonds, lab-grown diamonds are graded using the same international standards.. Lab-grown diamonds are created using two main processes.. Understanding these helps buyers appreciate why pricing and availability differ from natural diamonds..

HPHT replicates the intense heat and pressure found deep within the Earth.. Carbon is subjected to these conditions until it crystallises into diamond form.. This method has been used for decades and produces high-quality stones suitable for fine jewellery..

CVD involves placing a diamond seed in a vacuum chamber filled with carbon-rich gas.. The gas breaks down, and carbon atoms bond to the seed, growing the diamond layer by layer.. This method allows greater control over clarity and colour..

Both processes produce diamonds that are optically and structurally identical to mined stones and are accepted by major gemological laboratories.. Whether a diamond is lab-grown or natural, its value is assessed using the same framework:. the 4Cs..

Cut affects how light reflects through the diamond.. Well-cut diamonds appear brighter and more visually appealing, regardless of origin.. Diamonds are graded from colourless to light yellow or brown..

Lab-grown diamonds often achieve high colour grades due to controlled growing conditions.. Clarity measures internal inclusions and surface blemishes.. Many lab-grown diamonds offer higher clarity at lower prices..

Carat refers to size, not quality.. Lab-grown diamonds allow buyers to choose larger carat sizes for the same budget compared to mined diamonds.. These factors determine quality and appearance, but they do not tell the full story when it comes to long-term value..

One of the main reasons Perth buyers choose lab-grown diamonds is price.. On average, lab-grown diamonds cost 30-60 per cent less than equivalent natural diamonds with similar 4C grades.. This price difference exists because lab diamonds can be produced consistently without the geological rarity that drives natural diamond pricing..

For many Perth buyers, this makes lab-grown diamonds appealing for engagement rings and everyday fine jewellery.. This is one of the most important questions buyers ask - and where expectations need to be realistic.. In Australia, jewellery sellers are legally required to clearly disclose whether a diamond is lab-grown or natural, particularly where this distinction may affect a buyer's understanding of value or resale expectations..

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) outlines strict rules around false or misleading claims, including how product characteristics and value-related representations must be communicated to consumers.. This reinforces why buyers should fully understand how lab-grown diamonds are positioned in the market before purchasing, especially if long-term resale value is a consideration.. Lab-grown diamonds generally have lower resale value than natural diamonds..

In most cases, resale prices are significantly lower than the original purchase price.. This does not mean lab-grown diamonds lack value;. it means their value is best understood as personal and functional, rather than investment-based..

Natural diamonds also depreciate after purchase, but they typically retain a higher percentage of resale value due to long-established market demand and perceived rarity.. For Perth buyers, the decision often comes down to usage intention rather than quality.. Despite lower resale expectations, lab-grown diamonds continue to grow in popularity across Western Australia..

Buyers can prioritise size, brilliance, and design rather than paying a premium for origin.. Lab-grown diamonds appeal to buyers who want a conflict-free option with reduced environmental impact.. Local Perth jewellers often offer greater flexibility when designing with lab-grown stones due to predictable supply and pricing..

Always request certification from recognised laboratories such as GIA or IGI.. Reputable jewellers clearly disclose whether a diamond is lab-grown or natural.. Understand that lab-grown diamonds are best suited for wear and enjoyment, not financial return..

Working with experienced Perth jewellers helps ensure correct setting, sizing, and long-term care.. Lab-grown diamonds are an excellent choice if:. They may be less suitable if:.

Yes.. They are chemically and physically identical to mined diamonds.. Only with specialised equipment..

To the eye, they are indistinguishable.. No.. They are just as durable as natural diamonds..

No.. Lower prices are due to production efficiency, not quality.. Yes..

Most insurers cover lab-grown diamonds with proper certification.. Lab-grown diamonds offer strong upfront value, visual excellence, and ethical appeal for Perth buyers who want modern alternatives to traditional mined stones.. Key takeaways:.

By understanding how value truly works, Perth buyers can make confident, informed decisions that align with their priorities rather than marketing claims.. This is content submitted by a third party.. It does not necessarily represent the views of the publisher of this website..