Do Lab Grown Diamonds Hold Their Value?

Lab grown diamonds do hold some resale value, but typically only 30–40% of their original price, far less than natural diamonds. This is due to their mass production and limited rarity, making them less attractive in resale markets. GIA confirms they are real diamonds, but advises buyers not to view them as investments.

Introduction: Are Lab Grown Diamonds Worth It in the Long Run?

Lab grown diamonds have become a go-to option for conscious shoppers. They offer a lower price point, ethical sourcing, and identical brilliance to natural diamonds — but when it comes to resale, things get a little more complex.

So, do lab grown diamonds actually hold their value? Let’s explore how they compare with mined diamonds in price, resale, and long-term worth.

Lab Grown vs Natural Diamonds – A Quick Value Comparison

When comparing lab grown diamonds vs real diamonds, it's crucial to understand resale expectations. Here's a direct comparison:

Read more in our Lab Grown vs Natural Diamond guide

👉 Lab Grown Diamond Rings Collection

Why Lab Grown Diamonds Depreciate Faster

1. Unlimited Supply

Lab diamonds can be produced on demand, which eliminates the rarity factor that gives natural diamonds a higher market value.

2. Rapid Technological Advancements

Newer, better-quality lab diamonds are being produced cheaper every year, making older ones less desirable.

3. Limited Resale Demand

Many second-hand diamond buyers prefer natural diamonds for tradition and investment. This limits the demand for used lab-grown stones.

Is a Lab Grown Diamond Still Worth Buying?

Absolutely — if your focus is beauty, ethics, and budget.

You get a visually identical stone at a fraction of the cost. For those buying for sentimental or lifestyle reasons, lab diamonds make perfect sense.

Learn more about the CVD vs HPHT diamonds, the two main methods of lab diamond creation.

👉Explore Lab Made Diamond Earrings

Lab Grown Diamond Price vs Natural – 2025 Market Overview

Here's a side-by-side comparison (based on D color, VS1 clarity, excellent cut):

Understand diamond pricing better in Lab Grown Diamond vs Natural Price

Can You Resell Lab Grown Diamonds in 2025?

Yes — but manage your expectations. Lab-grown diamonds typically resell for 10–40% of the original price.

Trade-In ≠ Resale

Stores may offer trade-in credit, but it usually requires spending more, so it’s not a true return on investment.

Where Can You Resell?

• Specialist ethical jewelers
  

• Secondary marketplaces like eBay, Worthy, or I Do Now I Don’t
  

Pro Tip: Always buy diamonds with IGI or GIA certification to increase resale appeal.

How to Maximize the Resale Value of Lab Diamonds

Even though resale value is limited, here’s how you can improve your chances:

1. Buy High-Quality Stones (Excellent cut, color D–F, clarity VS1+)
   

2. Get Certified (GIA or IGI preferred)
   

3. Stick to Popular Shapes (Round, oval, princess)
   

4. Sell Through Niche Channels (Ethical resale platforms)
   
   

Will Lab Grown Diamonds Ever Match Natural in Value?

Not likely — but trends are shifting.

• Lab-grown diamonds now represent 50% of engagement ring sales (The Knot, 2025).

• Consumers under 35 prioritize sustainability over investment.

• Secondary markets are slowly growing due to demand for affordable luxury.
  

In time, value perception may shift, but lab-grown diamonds will still lack the rarity that supports natural diamonds' value retention.

Curious how they're made? Check out How Are Lab Grown Diamonds Made?

Explore Our Most Loved Collections

• Lab Grown Diamond Bracelets
  

• Lab Grown Diamond Studs
  

• Shop All Lab Diamonds Jewellery 

Final Verdict: Should Resale Value Impact Your Decision?

If your goal is a financial investment, choose a natural diamond.
But if you want:

• A beautiful, real diamond
  

• At a lower cost
  

• Ethically and environmentally responsible
  

…then a lab grown diamond is absolutely worth it — just don’t expect to make money on resale.

Understand the difference from fakes in Lab Created Diamonds vs Simulated Diamonds