We believe in honest advice, so let's tackle one of the most common questions directly: do lab-grown diamonds hold their value?
The short answer
No. Lab-grown diamonds have low resale value. Production keeps getting more efficient, prices have fallen over time, and there is no scarcity to support a secondary market.
What about natural diamonds?
Natural diamonds have an established resale market, but most buyers are surprised by how much less they get back than they paid. Retail prices include cutting, setting, design, distribution and the jeweler's margin. Only exceptional stones tend to hold value well.
So how should you think about value?
- Buy for the life you'll enjoy it. An engagement ring or anniversary piece is worn and loved for decades. Its value is in that use.
- Value on the day of purchase. A lab-grown diamond gives you far more size and quality for your money at purchase.
- Keep savings separate. If you want an investment, gold or financial assets are the traditional routes, not diamonds of either kind.
When natural may suit you better
If geological rarity, heritage or the potential to pass on a stone with an established market value matters most to you, a natural diamond may be the right choice.
When lab-grown makes more sense
If you want the most beautiful diamond your budget allows, with full sparkle and hardness for daily wear, lab-grown is hard to beat.
Insurance and replacement
Insure lab-grown jewelry for its replacement cost, not an inflated figure. See our insurance guide.
Questions? Talk to us. We'll always give you a straight answer.
