Lab diamond, moissanite or natural diamond?
This choice moves the price of a ring more than the design does. Here's what actually differs between the three, in plain words.
| Natural diamond | Lab-grown diamond | Moissanite | |
|---|---|---|---|
| What it is | Carbon crystal formed in the earth | The same carbon crystal, grown in a lab | Silicon carbide, a different mineral |
| Hardness (Mohs) | 10 | 10 | 9.25 |
| Look | White sparkle and fire | Identical to natural | More rainbow fire, especially in large stones |
| Relative price | Highest | A fraction of natural | Lowest |
| Resale value | Some | Very little | Very little |
| Best for | Tradition, rarity, heirloom value | Maximum size and quality for the budget | Tight budgets, large stones |
Natural diamond
The traditional choice. You pay for rarity, and part of that value can be recovered if you ever sell, though resale is always well below what you paid. Natural makes most sense if heritage matters to you, or you plan to pass the ring on. Segal says its natural diamonds are conflict-free.
Lab-grown diamond
Physically, chemically and optically a diamond. The difference is origin, and price: for the same budget you can have a bigger or cleaner stone. That's particularly useful for shapes that show flaws, like the emerald cut. The downside is that lab diamond prices keep falling, so resale value is minimal.
Moissanite
A different gemstone that looks similar to diamond but not identical. It is harder than every gem except diamond, so it wears well. Its extra coloured sparkle is either a feature or a giveaway, depending on your taste. Segal sells a "premium" moissanite in most of its settings, which makes it the cheapest way into a design you love.
Our rule of thumb
If the ring is about tradition, choose natural. If it's about the look and the budget is fixed, choose lab-grown. If you'd rather spend on the setting, the honeymoon or a house deposit, choose moissanite and don't apologise for it.
Browse the full range at Segal
- Natural diamond engagement ringsEarth-mined white diamonds.
- Lab-created diamond engagement ringsLab diamonds in every setting.
- Premium moissanite engagement ringsThe budget-friendly diamond alternative.
Questions people ask
Can people tell a lab diamond from a natural one?
Not by eye, and not with a standard diamond tester. Only specialised lab equipment can distinguish them. Reputable lab diamonds come with a grading report that states they are lab-grown.
Can people tell moissanite from diamond?
Sometimes. Moissanite shows more coloured flashes, especially in sunlight and in larger sizes. Most people will never notice; a jeweller usually will.
Which holds its value best?
Natural diamonds, though resale is still well below retail. Lab diamond prices have fallen steadily as production grows, so treat them as a purchase, not an investment.