A Simple Guide to Diamonds

Lab-grown and natural are both diamonds

The main difference is origin. Natural diamonds formed in the earth. Lab-grown diamonds are created in a controlled laboratory environment and have the same crystal structure and optical properties. Natural diamonds are chosen for natural origin and rarity; lab-grown diamonds generally allow more size and specification for the same budget.

The four characteristics

Carat describes weight, not visual diameter. In earrings and tennis jewellery, the listed weight is normally the total weight of all diamonds and is marked as TW.

Colour grades describe how colourless a diamond appears. Exact supplier-confirmed grades or ranges are stated on each approved product.

Clarity describes internal and external characteristics. We prioritise an eye-clean appearance rather than asking customers to pay for microscopic differences that do not materially change the finished piece.

Cut strongly affects how a diamond handles light. In finished jewellery, proportion, matching and setting quality also matter.

Natural diamonds

Natural diamonds formed over geological time and are finite natural stones. Choose natural when origin and rarity are important to you.

Lab-grown diamonds

Lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds created in a laboratory. Their origin is different, but the material and optical properties are the same. They usually offer a larger diamond or higher specification at a lower price than an equivalent natural diamond.

Finished jewellery matters

A grading report does not describe the whole piece. For earrings, bracelets and other multi-stone jewellery, matching, setting consistency, metalwork, clasp quality and final quality control are equally important. That is why we favour complete finished or specialist made-to-order jewellery wherever it gives the better result.

Documentation

Any grading report, hallmark or authenticity documentation included with a specific piece is stated clearly on its product page. We do not imply that every jewellery item is supplied with the same type of report.