Lab created diamonds quickly entered our collective mindset as the sustainable, inexpensive alternative to the mined variety. Still, the thousand dollar question many *** enthusiasts ask is, "Can you actually tell the difference between Lab created diamonds and the real thing?"

The discussion elaborates on lab grown diamonds having the same chemical and visual properties as mined diamonds, being rated for the same clarity, cut, color, and carat. Only after considerable use of advancements in technology would an expert be able to spot any difference. For the native eye, they are almost an exact match.

Let's break the conversation down:

Looks and Sparkle: Lab-created diamonds shine just like natural diamonds.

Cost: Sometimes, a lab diamond costs half as much as a mined diamond of the same size and quality.

Ethical Considerations: No mining; going green; conflict-free.

Resale Value: Mined diamonds are said to have a little more resale value for the long haul, but that is rapidly changing with ever-increasing acceptance.

We would like to give the community a chance to voice opinions and share experiences. Have you ever bought or ever considered buying a lab created diamond? Did you even know the distinction? What did matter most to you: the price, the origin, or the prestige?