Lab Grown Diamonds Resale Value Explained: Are They Worth Buying?

By HEMANT MADANE
December 24, 2025

Lab grown diamonds resale value is one of the most commonly searched questions by modern jewelry buyers. The resale value of any diamond (except the very large and most perfect natural ones) is negligible. Buy a lab because you want some impressive bling at an affordable price. Then enjoy wearing it. It’s not an investment.

Understanding this reality upfront helps customers make confident, informed, and regret-free purchasing decisions—especially in markets like India, the USA, and the UK where lab-grown diamonds are rapidly gaining popularity.

What Is a Lab-Grown Diamond?

A lab-grown diamond is a real diamond created in a controlled laboratory environment using advanced technology that replicates natural diamond formation. These diamonds have the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as mined diamonds.

They are produced using two primary methods:

  • HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature)

  • CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition)

To the naked eye—and even under most professional testing—lab diamonds look identical to natural diamonds.

What Is the Lab-Grown Diamond Resale Value?

The resale value of lab grown diamonds is generally low compared to their original retail price. Unlike natural diamonds, lab diamonds do not have limited supply. As technology improves and production increases, prices continue to decline.

Key resale insights:

  • Most lab-grown diamonds resell for 20–40% of the purchase price

  • Many jewelers do not offer buyback

  • Secondary market demand is limited

This doesn’t mean lab diamonds lack worth—it simply means they should be purchased for beauty and affordability, not investment.

Do Lab-Grown Diamonds Hold Value?

When customers ask do lab grown diamonds have resale value, the honest answer is: yes, but very limited.

They do retain some value, especially if:

  • The diamond is certified

  • The quality is high (cut, clarity, color)

  • The jewelry design is timeless

However, they do not appreciate over time like rare natural diamonds.

Difference Between Lab Grown Diamonds and Natural Diamonds

Feature Lab Grown Diamonds Natural Diamonds
Origin Lab-created Earth-mined
Price 30–70% cheaper Expensive
Resale Value Low Moderate (select stones)
Supply Unlimited Finite
Ethical Impact Eco-friendly Environmental concerns

Many buyers pair lab diamonds with silver rings for stylish, affordable everyday luxury without long-term financial pressure.

Will Lab Grown Diamonds Pass a Diamond Tester?

Yes, lab-grown diamonds pass standard diamond testers because they are made of pure carbon like natural diamonds. However, advanced lab equipment can distinguish them from mined diamonds.

This makes them suitable for premium designs such as silver earrings, engagement jewelry, and statement pieces.

How Much Affordable Are Lab Grown Diamonds?

Lab-grown diamonds are 30% to 70% more affordable than natural diamonds of the same quality. This affordability allows buyers to:

  • Choose larger carat sizes

  • Opt for better clarity and cut

  • Experiment with modern designs

They are especially popular in men’s jewelry, including silver rings for men, where bold designs are preferred without high investment risk.

Do Lab Grown Diamonds Hold Their Value?

In the long term, lab diamonds depreciate faster than natural diamonds due to:

  • Increasing production

  • Falling market prices

  • Lack of rarity

That said, they offer excellent value for money at the time of purchase—similar to how Moissanite Jewellery is valued for brilliance rather than resale.

Conclusion

Lab-grown diamonds are not investment assets, but they are exceptional lifestyle purchases. If your priority is beauty, ethical sourcing, affordability, and modern design, lab diamonds are an excellent choice.
If resale or long-term value appreciation is your main concern, natural diamonds—or alternative assets—may be more suitable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do lab grown diamonds have resale value?

Yes, but it is limited. Most lab diamonds resell at a fraction of their original price.

May I resell a lab-grown diamond?

You may resell privately or to select buyers, but many jewelers do not offer buyback options.

Is the investment still worthwhile on a lab-grown diamond?

As jewelry—yes. As a financial investment—no.

How do resale and natural and synthetic diamonds relate to each other?

Natural diamonds retain higher resale value due to rarity, while synthetic diamonds prioritize affordability.

Are lab created diamonds worth anything?

Yes, they have intrinsic value as real diamonds, but limited resale demand.

Are lab grown diamonds cheaper than natural?

Yes, typically 30–70% cheaper for similar quality.

Average lab grown diamond prices

Prices vary, but generally start much lower than natural diamonds and continue to decrease over time.

Can lab grown diamonds be GIA certified?

Yes, GIA and IGI both certify lab-grown diamonds.

Will lab grown diamonds lose their value?

Yes, most lab diamonds depreciate over time.

What is the best certification for lab grown diamonds?

IGI is the most commonly preferred, while GIA is also globally recognized.

HEMANT MADANE

Content Specialist
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