The Future of Fine
At Wakefields, you’ll find two equally brilliant worlds: natural diamonds, formed deep within the earth over billions of years, and laboratory grown diamonds, created through extraordinary science in a matter of weeks. While indistinguishable to the eye, each carries a story that sets them apart. So how do you choose? And more importantly, do you really have to?
There’s a certain poetry to a diamond formed over eons, far beneath the surface of the planet. Every natural diamond is entirely unique, a product of time, pressure, and chance. That’s part of the magic.
In the words of the Natural Diamond Council, “No two diamonds are alike; each one is a masterpiece of nature.” They’re rare and finite, which lends them a sense of timelessness. For many, a natural diamond doesn’t just symbolise love or celebration; it becomes an heirloom, a tangible legacy. There’s something undeniably romantic about that.
Yet, for a new generation of shoppers who value innovation as much as tradition, laboratory grown diamonds are rewriting the rules. "These laboratory grown diamonds are optically, chemically and physically identical to natural diamonds," explains Julian Cousins FGA DJA FJVA, Wakefields’ independent registered valuer. "As someone who examines diamonds and gemstones up close every day, for whom the importance of distinguishing origins and qualities is vital, laboratory grown diamonds have exactly the same sparkle and durability as their natural counterparts."
Thanks to advanced technology, laboratory grown diamonds are now available in larger carat sizes while still representing exceptional value. Because each stone is cultivated from a small carbon seed, there is greater flexibility in selecting the ideal combination of colour, clarity, and size. Whether your taste leans classic or contemporary, and whatever your budget, it is easier than ever to find a diamond that suits you perfectly. All without compromise.
While the jewellery industry works to reduce the environmental impact of diamond mining and adheres to the Kimberley Process to ensure conflict-free stones, the “green” reputation of laboratory grown diamonds isn’t always as clear-cut as it seems. Producing diamonds in a laboratory at an industrial scale requires significant energy consumption, a fact not always openly disclosed within the industry.
Both natural and laboratory grown diamonds have their advantages, but it’s worth noting a key difference: unlike natural diamonds, laboratory grown stones are not considered a secure investment. Their value is affected by fluctuating market demand and an ever-increasing supply, making them more vulnerable to depreciation over time.
At Wakefields, the conversation isn’t about choosing sides. It’s about celebrating the expansion of choice itself. “Decades ago, if you wanted a diamond, there was only one option,” says Melanie Wakefield, Managing Director at Wakefields. “But today, things have changed. There are different kinds of diamonds that tell different stories and fit different budgets, making it easier for more people to find something that feels right for them. And that’s something we’re proud to support.” Walk into the showroom and you’ll see both natural and laboratory grown diamonds displayed side by side, no hierarchy, just options. Whether you’re drawn to the romance of the natural or the precision of the engineered, your preferences shape the journey.
So, what should you choose? The truth is, there is no “should.” That’s the beauty of the moment we’re in. Natural diamonds carry the weight of history and tradition, while laboratory grown diamonds usher in a new era of innovation and accessibility. Both possess a brilliance that captivates and a durability that lasts a lifetime. In embracing both, we celebrate not only the past and the future but the evolving story of what luxury truly means. As Melanie puts it, “The real question isn’t which diamond is better. It’s which one feels right for you.”
When you begin your fine jewellery journey, it’s your taste, your values, and your style that make your diamond shine. There is no wrong answer, only the one that speaks to you. And now, more than ever, you have the freedom to choose the story you want to tell.
