How much does a diamond cost?

Diamonds, symbols of eternal love and luxury, have captivated humanity for centuries. Their incomparable brilliance and exceptional durability make them highly sought after gemstones, particularly for creating exceptional jewelry, such as engagement rings, necklaces and earrings. But behind this sparkling beauty lies a complex, rapidly changing market, where the price of a diamond can vary considerably depending on precise criteria such as carat, size, color and clarity.

Today, the consumer is faced with a crucial choice: mined diamond or laboratory diamond? This diamond mine laboratory comparison is essential to make an informed choice. To decipher this glittering market, it is essential to delve into the criteria that determine the value of a diamond, understand the differences between mined and lab-grown diamonds, and compare their prices. This comprehensive guide will give you all the keys to navigate the fascinating world of diamonds and answer the ultimate question: "what is the price of a diamond, and above all, which diamond to choose?

Mined diamond vs laboratory diamond: the origin makes the difference

Before discussing the price of a diamond, it is crucial to understand the fundamental distinction between mined diamonds and lab-grown diamonds. To choose the diamond that best suits you, it is essential to know their specificities and their respective advantages.

Imagine two cubes of ice, both crystal clear and fascinatingly beautiful. One, born in the heart of a thousand-year-old glacier, radiates the brilliance of eternal snow. The other, created in the family freezer, sparkles with human ingenuity. Both are composed of frozen water, have the same crystalline structure, the same transparency, the same coldness. Only their origin differs.

The same goes for diamonds. Is a lab-grown diamond as “real” as a mined diamond? The answer is yes! Chemically, physically and optically they are identical.

·   Mined diamonds: The result of a geological process that spans millions, even billions of years, mined diamonds are extracted from the depths of the Earth. Their formation under extreme pressures and temperatures gives them a rarity and mystical aura that has fueled their value for centuries. If you are looking for a rare diamond full of history, a mined diamond with a GIA certificate could be the ideal choice. However, mining has a significant environmental and social cost, and working conditions in some mines are often criticized. The ecological impact of mined diamonds is an important factor to take into account when making your choice.

·   Laboratory Diamonds: Born from human ingenuity and technological advances, lab-grown diamonds are created in a matter of weeks in sophisticated facilities. By replicating the conditions under which natural diamonds form, scientists are able to produce diamonds that have the same chemical composition, crystal structure and brilliance as mined diamonds. They are identical in appearance and physical properties, but their production process is more ethical, sustainable and transparent. Lab-grown diamonds, also called synthetic diamonds or cultured diamonds, offer a responsible alternative to mined diamonds, without compromising on quality. If you are looking for an ethical and affordable diamond engagement ring, a lab-grown diamond is a great option.

In summary, diamonds, whether from the depths of the earth or designed by man, share identical characteristics. Their value, their brilliance and their beauty are the same, only their origin differs. While mined diamonds are the result of a long natural process, laboratory diamonds, created by technology, offer an ethical and sustainable alternative, without compromising on quality.

The 4Cs, pillars of diamond evaluation

Whether you are looking to buy a mined diamond or a laboratory diamond, its evaluation is based on four fundamental criteria, universally recognized in the world of gemology: the 4Cs. These four pillars – Carat, Cut, Color and Clarity – interact to define the value and beauty of a diamond, and directly influence its price. Understanding the importance of each “C” will allow you to choose the diamond that best meets your expectations and your budget.

Carat (Weight): the influence of weight on the price of a diamond

The carat is the unit of measurement for the weight of a diamond. One carat is equal to 0.2 grams. The higher the carat weight, the rarer and more valuable the diamond. The price of a diamond increases exponentially with carat size. This means that a 2 carat diamond, all things being equal, will not cost twice as much as a 1 carat diamond, but much more!

There are also psychological levels at certain carats (0.5ct, 1ct, 1.5ct, 2ct, etc.). Buyers are often willing to pay a significantly higher price for a diamond that crosses one of these thresholds, even if the difference in weight is minimal. For example, the price of a 1 carat diamond can be considerably higher than that of a 0.95 carat diamond.

Price of a diamond per carat based on its carat weight (read “a 3-carat diamond will have an average price per carat of €45,000):

It is important to note that these prices are given as an indication and may vary depending on demand, supply and market fluctuations. If you are looking for a diamond of a particular carat, do not hesitate to contact a professional diamond dealer to obtain an accurate estimate.

Cut: the importance of size and polish

Size is undoubtedly the most important criterion of the 4Cs. It refers to the proportions, symmetry and polish of a diamond. Expert cutting maximizes the diamond's brilliance by allowing light to penetrate the stone, reflect off its internal facets and exit on top, creating the famous "fire" of the diamond.

There are different cut shapes, each with its own characteristics and influence on the price of a diamond. The round cut, also called brilliant cut, is the most popular and generally the most expensive, because it maximizes the brilliance of the diamond. It is also the most demanding in terms of raw material, as it requires sacrificing a larger part of the rough diamond to obtain the ideal proportions. If you are looking for a diamond with maximum brilliance, the brilliant cut is an excellent choice.

Other sizes, such as princess, emerald, pear or marquise, offer different styles and may be more affordable.

• The princess cut is a square or rectangular cut that offers intense shine and a modern appearance.

• The emerald cut is a rectangular cut with cut sides that highlights the clarity of the diamond. It is often chosen for large size and high clarity diamonds.

• The pear waist, also called the drop waist, is an asymmetrical waist that combines the curves of a round waist with the point of a marquise waist. It is often used for pendants and earrings.

• The marquise cut is an oval cut pointed at both ends, which gives the illusion of a larger size. It is often used for rings and pendants.

The different sizes of diamonds. Brilliant cut, emerald cut, marquise cut, pear cut, princess cut.

The quality of the cut has a major impact on the price of a diamond, whether mined or laboratory-grown. A diamond with an excellent cut can be worth considerably more than a diamond of the same carat and color with a poor cut.

Color: The subtle influence of hue... and on the price of a diamond!

The color of a diamond is an important factor to consider, both for its aesthetic appearance and its price. If we often imagine the diamond as a perfectly colorless stone, the reality is more nuanced. Indeed, the majority of diamonds used in jewelry have a slight yellow tint.

The GIA color scale and its impact on the price of a diamond

To classify diamonds according to their color, the GIA (Gemological Institute of America) has developed a scale ranging from "D" to "Z". Each color grade has a direct impact on the price of the diamond.

Let's take a 1 carat round brilliant cut diamond as a reference, with VS2 clarity and excellent cut:

• D: Exceptional white +. The ultimate in color, D color diamonds are perfectly colorless. Count on a bonus of +30% to +40% compared to the reference price (grade G).

• E-F: Exceptional white and extra white +. Very close to colorless, with a tiny, almost imperceptible yellow tint. Bonus of +20% to +30% compared to the reference price. If you are looking for an exceptional white diamond, grades E and F are an excellent choice. All our diamonds are certified at least F to guarantee you the whitest diamond, as for the Andrea ring.

• G-H: Extra white and white. A slight, subtle yellow tint that does not significantly affect shine. This is often the best value for money. Grade G is our reference price. Grade H offers a reduction of -10% to -15%.

• I-J: Shaded white. The yellow tint is more noticeable, but still acceptable, especially if the diamond is set in yellow gold. Reduction of -20% to -25% compared to the reference price.

• K-M: Light tint. The yellow color is clearly visible. These diamonds are cheaper, with a reduction of -30% to -40% compared to the reference price.

• N-Z: Notable tint. The yellow color is pronounced. These diamonds are the cheapest, with a reduction of up to -50% compared to the reference price.

"Fancy" colored diamonds: a major influence on the price

Beyond white diamonds, there are "fancy" colored diamonds: pink, blue, green, bright yellow, red... These diamonds are extremely rare and sought after. Their price, already high for “fancy” mine colored diamonds, can reach astronomical sums for certain colors and intensities.

Let's take the example of a 1 carat pink diamond, brilliant cut, VS2 clarity:

• Pale pink: +80% to +150% compared to a white diamond of the same quality.

• Medium pink: +200% to +500%

• Intense pink: +800% to +2000%

• Bright pink: The price can be multiplied by 10, 20, even 50 compared to a white diamond!

Blue, green and red diamonds follow a similar trend, with even greater price variations depending on rarity and color intensity. The price of a blue diamond can thus reach new heights, making these stones real gems.

Laboratory diamonds: an accessible rainbow of colors

Laboratory diamonds offer a unique opportunity to explore the world of colored diamonds at more affordable prices. Scientists can control growing conditions to achieve specific colors, providing a wide range of choices.

The clarity of a diamond refers to its degree of purity. In other words, it involves evaluating the presence of inclusions, these small natural imperfections that form during the crystallization of the diamond. Almost all diamonds contain inclusions, but their number, size and position can vary greatly.

The Loop ring in 18ct yellow or white gold with its 1 carat green diamond.

Clarity: Master the clarity scale to optimize your purchase

The GIA (Gemological Institute of America) has developed a clarity scale to classify diamonds based on their inclusions:

• FL (Flawless): No visible inclusions, even with a x10 magnifying glass. This is the highest and rarest level of clarity.

• IF (Internally Flawless): No inclusions visible under x10 magnification, but tiny imperfections may be present on the surface of the diamond.

• VVS1-VVS2 (Very, Very Slightly Included): Inclusions are very difficult to see, even for an experienced gemologist using a 10x magnifying glass.

• VS1-VS2 (Very Slightly Included): Inclusions are difficult to see with a 10x magnifying glass, but may be visible to the naked eye under certain conditions.

• SI1-SI2 (Slightly Included): Inclusions are easily visible with a x10 magnifying glass and some may be visible to the naked eye.

• I1-I3 (Included): The inclusions are visible to the naked eye.

Diamond clarity and price: what impact?

Clarity has a significant impact on the price of a diamond. The purer a diamond, the more rare and valuable it is. FL and IF diamonds are the most expensive, while I1-I3 diamonds are the most affordable.

Laboratory diamonds: often superior clarity

Lab-grown diamonds often have a higher clarity than mined diamonds because they are created in a controlled environment where inclusions are minimized. It is not uncommon to find lab-grown diamonds of "VVS" or even "FL" clarity, whereas these clarity levels are much rarer in mine-grown diamonds. If you are looking for a diamond with excellent clarity, lab-grown diamonds are a great option.

The price: a gap is widening between mine and laboratory

The main advantage of lab-grown diamonds is their price. They are generally less expensive than mine diamonds of comparable characteristics. This price difference can be explained by several factors:

• Production costs: Producing lab-grown diamonds is less expensive than mining, which requires significant investments in infrastructure, labor and energy.

• Absence of intermediaries: The laboratory diamond market is more direct, with fewer intermediaries between the producer and the consumer, which reduces margins and additional costs.

• Market perception: Mine diamonds still benefit from an image of prestige and rarity which influences their price. However, this perception is changing, as consumers become aware of the benefits of lab-grown diamonds.

Laboratory diamonds offer an alternative to mined diamonds, with many advantages that are attracting more and more consumers. If you are concerned about ethics, the environment and your budget, lab-grown diamonds are an option to seriously consider.

Here are the main advantages of laboratory diamonds:

• More affordable price: The price of a laboratory diamond is generally less expensive than that of a mine diamond of comparable characteristics. This allows you to acquire a larger or better quality diamond for a given budget. For example, if you are looking for a 2 carat diamond, a lab-grown diamond will allow you to make your dream come true without breaking the bank.

• Ethics and sustainability : Lab-grown diamonds are produced under ethical and environmentally friendly conditions. They do not have a negative impact on ecosystems and do not contribute to armed conflicts linked to mining. If you are looking for an ethical and ecological diamond, laboratory diamonds are the ideal choice.

• Quality controlled: Lab-grown diamonds are created in a controlled environment, which helps ensure their quality and purity. It is possible to choose specific characteristics, such as color and clarity, and obtain a perfect diamond, without visible inclusions.

• Traceability: Lab-grown diamonds are often accompanied by a certificate that guarantees their origin and manufacturing process. You therefore have the guarantee of an authentic and traceable product.

The diamond market: changing rapidly

The diamond market is changing, with the arrival of laboratory diamonds gaining popularity. Consumers are increasingly sensitive to ethical and environmental issues, and are looking for alternatives to mined diamonds. Demand for lab-grown diamonds is forecast to continue to grow in the coming years, which could lead to lower prices and a challenge to the traditional diamond market. The future of diamonds is being written, and lab-grown diamonds play a major role in it.

Conclusion: “But who in their right mind would buy a mined diamond?”

Faced with the many advantages of laboratory diamonds, it is legitimate to ask why persist in buying mine diamonds. Lab-grown diamonds offer the same brilliance, beauty and durability, at a more affordable price and without the ethical and environmental implications of mining. So why pay more for a mined diamond when a more responsible and accessible alternative is available? The choice is now in your hands.

FAQ

Question 1: What are the main factors that influence the price of a diamond? The main factors that influence the price of a diamond are the 4Cs: Carat (weight), Size (Cut), Color (Color) and Clarity (Clarity). The origin of the diamond (mine or laboratory) is also a significant price factor.

Question 2: What is the price difference between a mined diamond and a laboratory diamond with similar characteristics? Laboratory diamonds are generally less expensive than mine diamonds of comparable characteristics. This price difference is explained by lower production costs, the absence of intermediaries and a changing market perception.

Question 3: How does carat weight affect the price of a diamond? The higher the carat weight of a diamond, the more its price increases exponentially. There are also psychological levels (0.5ct, 1ct, etc.) where prices can increase significantly.

Question 4: How does the Clarity of a diamond, assessed according to the GIA scale, influence its price? The Clarity of a diamond, which refers to the absence of inclusions, has a significant impact on its price. Diamonds with high clarity (FL, IF, VVS) are rarer and therefore more expensive than those with more visible inclusions (SI, I).

Question 5: How does the GIA color scale affect the price of a white diamond? The GIA color scale ranges from D (colorless, most expensive) to Z (notable tint, least expensive). The more colorless a white diamond is (closer to D), the higher its value and price.

Question 6: What is the price difference for a fancy colored diamond compared to a white diamond? Fancy colored diamonds (pink, blue, green, etc.) are extremely rare and can be much more expensive than white diamonds of comparable quality. The price varies considerably depending on the color and its intensity.

Question 7: What are the advantages of lab-grown diamonds in terms of price and ethics compared to mined diamonds? Laboratory diamonds are generally more affordable than mined diamonds. Additionally, they are produced under ethical and sustainable conditions, without the negative environmental and social impacts associated with mining.