The phrase "lab grown" can get a bad rap. And, in some cases a natural stone is preferred over lab grown. That isn't to say lab grown isn't a good option. In fact, lab grown is the most sustainable and ethical way to produce stones at this point.

I always equate it to growing a tomato in a garden or finding one in the wild. They are both tomatoes but the one in the garden is cared for and protected from the elements 100%, resulting in it being absolutely perfect every time.

Quickly, I wanted to cover some definitions that you might find when you are googling jewelry.

All gems are stones — but not all stones are gems.

What Even Is a Lab-Grown Stone?

Think: "grown with intention, not chance." 

A lab-grown stone is a gemstone created in a controlled laboratory setting rather than forming naturally beneath the earth's surface over millions of years. The important thing to know is that lab-grown stones are not fake they are chemically and physically identical to mined stones. They have the same crystal structure, the same mineral composition, and the same optical properties as brilliance and sparkle. A lab-grown sapphire is still a sapphire. A lab-grown diamond is still a diamond. The only difference is where and how it was born.

The process essentially recreates the same conditions that make gems in nature, just in a lab instead of deep underground. Scientists use methods that mimic extreme heat and pressure or slowly grow a crystal layer by layer from its raw elements, depending on the type of stone. What comes out the other side is a gem that looks, feels, and tests identically to one that took the earth thousands of years to make.

Lab grown is everything a naturally mined stone is, just without the mining, the environmental impact, or the unpredictability. Think of it less like an imitation and more like a shortcut to the same destination.

Do we use Lab-Grown Stones?

Sure do! And, I've been using the same stone dealer for over 10 years. These stones are affordable and sustainable. Period. 

Nina Berenato Jewelry is made using recycled metals and old-school lost-cast-wax methods. My stores also run off wind-powered energy and earned Austin's highest sustainability honor — the Platinum Green Business Leader award.

Lab-grown stones aren't a trend for us! Because they are the most ethical and sustainable choice, they're a natural extension of our mission that's been in place for years.

Natural, on occasion!

I do source unique and rare gems on occasion. This process, for me, takes months and something I do not take lightly. All makers in the jewelry industry have to inspect thoroughly and vet a gems clarity, color, and their grading report. 

For example: A diamond certificate, often referred to as a report card, provides a detailed assessment of the diamond’s characteristics, including the famous 4Cs: Carat weight, Cut, Color, and Clarity.

Lab-Grown Stones: Perfect, Every Time

With a lab-grown stone, I can count on their clarity, brilliance, and shine every time. Lab-grown stones are controlled, consistent, and stunning. 

Remember: It's the real deal. "Lab grown" never means "lesser" in quality. You can always count on a lab-grown quality. It's the exact gem structure as it's "natural" blueprint.

Size: You can go bigger - much bigger - than a naturally mined stone. If you have everyday jewelry, lab grown is a much more accessible. 

Use: Best for everyday wear. But, don't box this stone in! Even for wedding rings, lab-grown diamonds are (I cannot emphasis this enough) an excellent choice. 

Cost: Lab grown stones are typically 40% less than naturally mined stones. 

Naturally Mined Stones: Rare & Historical

I'm sure you've heard "REAL diamonds hold their value." Sure - in most cases they do hold their value if their clarity and cut are top-tier. But know that a low or middle grade gem is not "worth" more than a lab grown stone. 

Size: You are going to be limited to availability and cost. 

Use: When you're deciding between lab grown and natural stones, ask yourself two questions...

First: Are you buying a piece in the hopes to resell it? Err... Be honest. You're probably not. 
Second: Does the piece you want really need a naturally mined gem?

There are moments when a naturally mined gemstone is exactly what a piece calls for. Antique and vintage jewelry, for example, carries a history that can't be replicated.

Some buyers also seek out mined gems for deeply personal reasons, like using a family heirloom stone in a custom setting, or choosing a birthstone tied to a specific place or origin that holds meaning to them.

Cost: This depends on carat size. With VVS1 Diamonds around $7,000/carat and Sapphire cue whistle coming in at $25,000/carat. 

What This Means for You as a Buyer

It means, lab grown is just fine. And, preferred in most cases! But the decision is all yours (and your wallets).

When you wear Nina Berenato Jewelry, you're choosing jewelry that reflects your own values - a brand that has donated over $140k to local Texas charities and was built on the mission to make women feel powerful, beautiful, and capable of anything.

Your stone choice is part of that story!

Lab Grown vs. Naturally Mined Stones: Quick Comparison

Ask a Jeweler!

I'm Nina Berenato - Owner and Founder of Nina Berenato Jewelry. I've been in the jewelry and fashion business for over 15 years. If you have a question about your jewelry, my team and I would be happy to help. Ask away on our socials @ninaberenato or email us at hello@ninaberenato.com

You can shop my handmade jewelry here or stop by to get a permanent bracelet at one of my Texas stores.