Expert Quick Take: My Honest Opinion After Researching 200+ 2026 Price Listings
If you are asking “Are lab-grown diamonds cheaper?” in 2026, the answer is a resounding yes—but the gap is wider than ever. In my years of analyzing market shifts, I’ve seen lab diamonds move from a “budget alternative” to a full-blown industrial revolution.
Today, you aren’t just saving 30%; you are effectively getting 85% to 90% more diamond for your dollar.
However, don’t be fooled by “mall deals”—while the stones are chemically identical to natural diamonds, the price you pay depends entirely on your ability to spot the 2026 value “sweet spots.”
Decision Snapshot: Which 2026 Diamond Path is Yours?
| If Your Goal Is… | Choose This Strategy | Mehedi’s Verdict |
|---|---|---|
| The “Celebrity” Look | 3ct Lab Grown (F/VS2) | The Wealth Hack. Costs roughly $2,200 in 2026. A natural equivalent would be $40,000+. Same sparkle, zero debt. |
| Legacy & Resale | 1.5ct Natural (GIA) | The Heirloom. Retains value better than Lab. Use this for family heirlooms where the “story” of rarity matters most. |
| The Smartest 2026 Value | 2ct Lab Grown + Designer Setting | The Durable Build. Spend $1,600 on the stone and invest the savings into a premium Platinum setting for lifetime durability. |
| Daily Luxury | 1ct Lab Studs / Pendants | The New Basic. At $800 per carat, these are the new “luxury basics.” Indestructible and perfectly colorless. |
| The 2026 Buying Verdict: Unless you are buying for “Resale” (Legacy), always choose Lab-Grown. The price gap has widened to the point where buying Natural for daily wear is financially difficult to justify. | ||
Mehedi’s Final Verdict: In 2026, buying a 1-carat natural diamond for $5,000 when a visually identical lab diamond costs $900 is becoming harder to justify for most couples.
My advice? If you want the most visual “bang for your buck,” buy a Type IIa Lab Diamond—it’s the purest form of carbon and outshines even most natural stones.
For the best 2026 inventory and the most transparent pricing, I recommend James Allen for their HD video inspection or Blue Nile for their massive GIA-graded selection.
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One In A Lifetime Sale: “Clear The Vault” – Get up to 70% OFF on select jewelry at Blue Nile !
Exclusive Offer: Flash Sale on James Allen Up to 40% Off * Sitewide engagement ring settings & Fine Jewelry at James Allen .
If you’ve heard about lab grown diamonds, you may be wondering, Are lab grown diamonds cheaper? The short answer is yes! But there’s a lot more to the story, and I’m here to walk you through why lab grown diamonds could be your best (and most budget-friendly) option.
Would you like to own a beautiful diamond but don’t want to spend all your money on it? I get it; diamonds are the most expensive thing in the world, but the price can be too much for some people.
Let’s learn more about lab-grown diamonds, compare their prices, and find out how you can get the same sparkle for a lot less!
Before we dive in, if you’re curious about how other alternatives like moissanite compare, check out my deep dive on Moissanite vs Diamonds and see which one could be your perfect fit.
Diamond IQ Test: Natural or Lab-Grown?
Two identical diamonds: GIA Certified, 1.51ct, D Color, VVS1, Ideal Cut. One is natural ($16,530), the other is lab-grown ($2,390). Choose the diamond you like better and see if you can match it to its origin.
What Are Lab Grown Diamonds? Are They Real?
Lab grown diamonds have become all the rage, but what exactly are they, and are they just as real as their mined counterparts?
- Lab grown diamonds are made in a controlled setting that is similar to how diamonds are formed in the Earth’s crust.
- The way they look, feel, and react to light is exactly the same as diamonds that are found in the ground.
- They’re also a better choice for people who care about the environment because they’re more sustainable and fair.
I couldn’t decide between a real diamond and a lab-grown one when I was shopping for my own engagement ring. I couldn’t even tell the difference when I put them next to each other. And I have to say, my wallet was glad I chose lab grown diamond.
Have you ever thought about getting a diamond made in a lab? What you see and how much it costs may surprise you!
Are Lab Grown Diamonds Cheaper Than Natural Diamonds?
Are lab grown diamonds really cheaper? That is the million-dollar question.
- Diamonds made in a lab usually cost 30 to 80 percent less than diamonds found in nature that are the same size and quality.
- The main reason for this price drop is the difference in how much it costs to mine and make.
- To give you an idea, a lab grown 2-carat diamond might cost around $8,000, but a real diamond of the same size could easily cost $20,000!
I was amazed at the difference in price between a 2 Carat Lab Grown Diamond and a found one. The lab grown choice was a lot cheaper for the same size and sparkle, and I could use the money I saved for other wedding costs.
Are you ready to get a diamond for a lot less money without giving up any sparkle?
Our Top Picks: Are Lab Grown Diamonds Cheaper?
Ready to start shopping? Here are my top picks for lab grown diamonds that offer incredible value and stunning sparkle.
1. ARAIYA FINE JEWELRY 3/4 Carat – 2 Carat Lab Grown Diamond Halo Earrings
The ARAIYA FINE JEWELRY Lab Grown Diamond Halo Earrings will make your jewelry collection look better. These beautiful earrings are made of 14K yellow or white gold and have lab grown diamonds that are D-E in color and VS in clarity.
These round diamonds come in sizes from 3/4 carat to 2 carat and are set in a halo design that adds another layer of shine. They combine classic beauty with modern style.
Crafted by master artists by hand, these earrings offer high quality work and close attention to detail. You could give these earrings as a gift or treat yourself to them. They have a sparkle that you’ll never forget.
3/4 to 2 Carat Lab-Grown Diamond Halo Earrings in 14K yellow or white gold, featuring D-E color and VS clarity diamonds.
Pros:
✅ D-E Color and VS Clarity lab-grown diamonds for stunning brilliance
✅ 14K yellow or white gold settings available, ensuring durability and elegance
✅ Timeless halo design that complements both classic and modern styles
✅ Handcrafted with superior craftsmanship from experienced jewelers
✅ Comes ready for gifting, perfect for any special occasion like weddings, anniversaries, or engagements
Cons:
❌ Limited color and metal options (only available in yellow or white gold)
❌ May not appeal to those looking for natural diamonds
2. ARAIYA FINE JEWELRY 1/2 Carat – 1 Carat Lab Grown Diamond Pendant for Women
The ARAIYA FINE JEWELRY Lab Grown Diamond Pendant Necklace will add a bit of class to your outfit. This piece comes in 14K yellow or white gold and has a lab-grown diamond that is 1/2 to 1 carat, D-E color, and VS clarity.
There is a beautiful circle pattern around the diamond, which makes it look even more beautiful. The 18-inch gold rope chain that comes with this pendant completes the fancy look and makes it the perfect decoration for any event.
That is, if you want to give this pendant to someone special or just treat yourself, it will always look great.
1/2 to 1 Carat Lab Grown Diamond Pendant in 14K yellow or white gold, paired with an 18" gold rope chain, featuring D-E color and VS clarity diamonds.
Pros:
✅ D-E Color and VS Clarity diamonds for excellent brilliance and fire
✅ Available in 14K yellow or white gold, offering flexible style options
✅ Comes with an 18" gold rope chain that enhances the pendant’s elegance
✅ Handcrafted with precision by expert jewelers for the finest quality
✅ Ready for gifting, perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or other special occasions
Cons:
❌ Limited diamond size options (1/2 to 1 carat only)
❌ May not be ideal for those who prefer shorter chain lengths
3. ARAIYA FINE JEWELRY 10K Gold or Silver Diamond Band Ring
The ARAIYA FINE JEWELRY 10K Gold or Silver Diamond Band Ring is a classic piece that can be worn on any event or to show your love.
This ring is made of conflict-free diamonds set in sterling silver or 10K gold and has a total weight of 1/6 carat of round natural diamonds with I-J color and I2-I3 clarity.
Each ring is made using eco friendly methods, so you can be proud to wear it knowing it was made in an honest way.
For an anniversary, a birthday, or just because, this diamond band ring’s basic style makes it both beautiful and comfortable to wear.
10K Gold or Sterling Silver Diamond Band Ring with 1/6 cttw natural diamonds, I-J color, and I2-I3 clarity. Crafted with sustainable processes.
Pros:
✅ 1/6 cttw natural, conflict-free diamonds with I-J color and I2-I3 clarity
✅ Available in 10K gold or sterling silver, offering different metal options
✅ Comfortable classic design, ideal for daily wear or special occasions
✅ Ethically crafted using sustainable processes for eco-conscious buyers
✅ Perfect for gifting on birthdays, anniversaries, or holidays
Cons:
❌ Diamond clarity may not appeal to those seeking higher-grade stones
❌ Limited diamond carat weight (1/6 cttw)
4. ARAIYA FINE JEWELRY Lab Grown Diamond Five-Stone Band Ring
The ARAIYA FINE JEWELRY Lab Grown Diamond Five-Stone Band Ring is made of 14K solid yellow or white gold and is a stunning show of brightness.
The band is beautifully set with five lab-grown diamonds that weigh a total of half a carat. Each diamond is D-E in color and VS in quality, quality is top. They shine really good and look great.
It’s perfect as a wedding or anniversary ring/band, because it combines classic style with modern luxury. It was made by skilled jewelers and shows that they care about using safe materials and methods.
This piece is very useful because it can be worn every day or for special events.
14K Yellow or White Gold Five-Stone Band Ring with lab-grown diamonds (1/2 cttw, D-E Color, VS Clarity). Ideal for anniversaries or weddings.
Pros:
✅ Five lab-grown diamonds with D-E color and VS clarity, providing excellent brilliance
✅ Crafted in 14K solid yellow or white gold, ensuring a high-quality, durable design
✅ Ethically produced diamonds, offering a sustainable and conflict-free option
✅ Timeless design perfect for anniversary or wedding rings
✅ Comes ready for gifting, beautifully packaged for special occasions
Cons:
❌ Limited sizing options (available in size 7.5)
❌ May not appeal to those seeking larger carat weights beyond 1/2 carat
5. ARAIYA FINE JEWELRY 14K White Gold Diamond Tennis Bracelet
This ARAIYA FINE JEWELRY 14K White Gold Diamond Tennis Bracelet is a standard piece of grace. It has 2 carats of round diamonds with I-J color and I2-I3 quality.
This 7 inch tennis bracelet is made of 14K white gold and has a box catch clasp for extra safety and comfort.
Its classic style and sparkling gems make it the perfect piece for any event and give your outfit a touch of class.
This piece can be worn every day or for special occasions. It is stylish and high-end. We really recommend this jewelry as it is one of a kind yet affordable if you compare this to other same Bracelets from other companies.
14K White Gold Tennis Bracelet with 2 cttw round diamonds (I-J Color, I2-I3 Clarity) in a 7-inch length, secured with a box catch clasp.
Pros:
✅ 2 cttw of round diamonds for a radiant and classic look
✅ Crafted in 14K white gold, offering durability and a sleek finish
✅ Timeless tennis bracelet design, ideal for both casual and formal wear
✅ Secured with a box catch clasp for comfort and safety
✅ Packaged elegantly, making it a perfect gift for special occasions
Cons:
❌ Diamonds with I2-I3 clarity may have inclusions visible to the naked eye
❌ May not appeal to those looking for larger diamond carat weights
How Do Lab Grown Diamonds Compare to Natural Diamonds?
I am sure you are thinking, “Do diamonds made in a lab look as good as real ones?” Spoiler alert, they do, and more!
- Natural diamonds and lab grown diamonds are exactly the same in every way.
- They sparkle, last a long time, and are durable, but they don’t cost as much.
- Lab-grown diamonds, on the other hand, are made in a humane way that has little effect on the environment.
Imagine going into a jewelry shop and seeing two diamond rings that are exactly the same. Both shine the same, but one costs 60% less. Which one do you want?
Why Lab Grown Diamonds Are a Smart Choice for Ethical Shoppers
It’s not just about price; lab grown diamonds come with a whole host of ethical benefits.
- Lab grown diamonds eliminate the need for mining, reducing environmental impact.
- They are free from concerns related to conflict diamonds (also known as blood diamonds).
- Many lab grown diamonds are created with renewable energy, making them an eco-friendly choice.
When I learned about the environmental and ethical issues surrounding traditional diamond mining, I knew I had to make a more conscious choice. Choosing lab grown diamonds felt like the right thing to do, for me and the planet.
What matters more to you: price, ethics, or both? If you’re looking for a responsible option, lab grown diamonds are the way to go!
How to Choose the Best Lab Grown Diamond
With so many choices, it can be hard to find the right lab-grown diamond. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. Lab grown diamonds come in many forms, sizes, and grades, just like real diamonds.
Find the best diamond for your needs and price by knowing the most important things to think about when choosing your stone. We’ll go over the most important things you should look for in a lab-grown diamond!
Consider the 4 Cs: Cut, Clarity, Color, and Carat
The 4 Cs are important for both found and lab-grown diamonds. It’s important to know these things because they have a big effect on the diamond’s beauty, sparkle, and worth.
1. Cut:
The cut of a diamond tells you how well it shows light. A diamond that is cut well will sparkle brightly, but a diamond that is cut badly can look dull, even if it is perfect.
The shine is best with round cuts. Fancy cuts, like emerald or princess, give you a unique shape but might not sparkle as much.
2. Clarity:
Clarity tells you how free a diamond is of flaws or “inclusions” inside it. Although lab grown diamonds generally have fewer flaws than real diamonds, you should still look for a stone with high clarity to make sure it looks clean and beautiful.
3. Color:
Diamonds can have faint bits of color, despite the fact that they typically look white. The color range for lab grown diamonds is the same as for real diamonds, ranging from D (colorless) to Z.
The diamond gets more expensive as you get closer to D. Most people think that diamonds in the G–H group are the best value for money and look the best.
4. Carat:
A diamond’s price is significantly influenced by its carat weight. Lab grown diamonds can be found in a lot of different sizes, and they often cost much less than real diamonds do.
No matter how big or beautiful it is, a lab grown 2 carat diamond might be much cheaper than one that was dug. Want to learn more about how to get the most for your carat? Read my post on 2 Carat Lab Grown Diamonds.
Certification Matters, Choose a Certified Diamond
When you are looking for a lab grown diamonds, make sure the Diamond has a certificate from a respected gemological lab, like the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the International Gemological Institute (IGI).
When you buy a confirmed diamond, you know that you are getting the 4 Cs that you paid for.
- The reason why certification is important is that certified diamonds come with thorough studies that confirm their features. This helps you understand the quality and value of the diamond you’re buying. When comparing diamonds from different sellers, this is very important.
- Where to Look for Certification: A lot of trustworthy online stores sell lab-grown diamonds that have certifications. When getting diamonds from sellers who don’t offer licenses, be careful because they may be cutting cuts.
- My Tips: I made sure to get a verified ring when I got my engagement ring. It made all the difference to know for sure that my stone was real and of good quality.
Choose the Right Shape for Your Style and Personality
The fun part of choosing a diamond is picking out the shape that fits your style and personality. The way a diamond is cut is not what its shape means. The shape of a diamond is its general form or outline.
Even though round or Oval cut diamonds are preferred by many of us like me, there are numerous other kinds that can be used to suit different tastes and styles. I really adore the Emerald cut, believe me or not, I have both Oval and emerald cut for my collection.
This list of the most famous diamond forms should help you make your choice:
| Diamond Shape | Characteristics | Best For | Mehedi’s Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Round Cut | Maximizes brilliance (58 facets). Timeless and mathematically engineered for light return. | Traditional / Max Sparkle | The Sparkle King. If brilliance is your #1 priority, nothing beats a Round Brilliant. |
| Princess Cut | Square with sharp corners. Modern, edgy appearance with excellent sparkle. | Modern / Bold | Corner Alert. Requires “V-Prongs” to protect the sharp corners from chipping. |
| Oval Cut | Elongated round shape. Unique look that lengthens the finger. | Trendsetters / Finger Slimming | The Size Hack. Looks 15% larger than a Round diamond of the same carat weight. |
| Cushion Cut | Soft, pillow-like corners. Vintage feel with “crushed ice” brilliance. | Vintage / Romantic | The Soft Glow. Less harsh sparkle than a princess cut; offers a romantic, candlelit vibe. |
| Emerald Cut | Step-cut design with long, parallel facets (“Hall of Mirrors”). | Sophisticated / Art Deco | The Clarity Showcase. Zero sparkle to hide flaws. You must buy VS1+ Clarity or higher. |
| The 2026 Shape Verdict: Stop worrying about trends. If you want size, buy Oval. If you want sparkle, buy Round. If you want Art Deco elegance, buy Emerald—but be ready to pay for higher clarity. | |||
As I looked for my own ring, I had the same problem that many people do: round or oval? Both cuts are nice in their own ways, but I picked the Oval Cut because it makes my fingers look longer and is a different take on the classic round shape.
Remember that the style of the diamond you pick should fit your attitude and make you feel good when you wear it.
For instance, round cuts are great if you want something classic and timeless. But princess or cushion cuts might be better if you want something a little more current or edgy. I hope you get my points.
And if you care most about clarity and elegance, the emerald cut gives you a sophisticated, modest look. This cut is always been my favourite.
Which shape does that speak to you?
FAQs: Are Lab Grown Diamonds Cheaper and More?
Are lab grown diamonds as good as natural diamonds?+
Yes. Lab grown diamonds are chemically, physically, and optically identical to natural diamonds. Both rank as a 10 on the Mohs scale, making them the hardest material on Earth. In 2026, most top-tier lab stones are classified as Type IIa, representing the purest form of diamond available. Learn about the two primary growth methods in our guide to types of lab grown diamonds.
How much cheaper are lab grown diamonds?+
In 2026, the price gap has widened significantly; lab diamonds are often 70% to 90% cheaper than natural diamonds. For instance, a 1ct natural stone costs ~$4,000, while a lab equivalent is ~$800. This shift has enabled “Size Arbitrage,” where buyers choose larger stones for less money. For a full breakdown, see our price comparison calculator.
Can you tell the difference between them?+
Not with the naked eye. Even experienced jewelers require specialized equipment to detect microscopic growth patterns. For transparency, most reputable lab diamonds include a laser inscription on the girdle. You can find more details on verification in what does GIA certified mean? and our guide on how to tell if a diamond is real.
Do lab grown diamonds hold their value?+
Generally, no. Lab grown diamonds are treated as technology products with declining production costs, leading to lower resale value. Natural diamonds remain the preferred choice for long-term “stable commodities” and heirlooms. Explore value retention in our natural diamond resale value guide.
Are lab grown diamonds eco-friendly?+
Mostly, but sustainability depends on the energy source used for production. While they avoid land displacement from mining, they are energy-intensive. In 2026, many eco-conscious buyers look for carbon-neutral footprints. Read about ethical considerations in why we refer to diamonds as conflict materials and our eco-friendly rings guide.
Conclusion: Key Takeaways
Lab grown diamonds are not only a cheap choice, but they are also very beautiful. Have moral value, and are good for our environments. You can save money without giving up quality when you choose lab grown diamonds for an engagement ring, earrings, or a special gift.
There are other things you should think about if you’re still not sure. You’re spending money on something that shows off your style and your morals. So why not save a lot of money and feel good about it?
