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The Stone
Guide
Three exceptional stones. Each with distinct character, brilliance, and value. Understanding the differences helps you choose with confidence.
Lab Diamond
Physically and chemically identical to a natural diamond, laboratory-created diamonds are grown in controlled conditions using the same carbon atom structure. The result is a stone that is indistinguishable to the naked eye — and to most gemological instruments.
Grown using either High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) or Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD) processes, these diamonds carry the same IGI or GIA certifications as their natural counterparts. They offer exceptional value: the same brilliance, fire, and hardness at 60–80% lower cost.
Hardness
10 Mohs
Refractive Index
2.42
Brilliance
Exceptional
Origin
Laboratory-created
Price Range
££
Certification
IGI / GIA
- Visually and chemically identical to mined diamonds
- Conflict-free and sustainably produced
- Certified by IGI or GIA
- Excellent long-term durability
Moissanite
Originally discovered in a meteorite crater in 1893, moissanite is now grown entirely in a laboratory. With a refractive index higher than diamond, it produces an intense, rainbow-like fire that many find breathtaking.
Moissanite (silicon carbide) scores 9.25 on the Mohs hardness scale — the second hardest gemstone used in jewellery. It is virtually impossible to scratch in everyday wear. Its extraordinary fire is a defining characteristic; in certain lights, the dispersion exceeds that of any other gemstone.
Hardness
9.25 Mohs
Refractive Index
2.65
Brilliance
Very High
Origin
Laboratory-created
Price Range
£
Certification
Varies
- Higher refractive index than diamond
- Second hardest gemstone used in jewellery
- Laboratory-created, entirely conflict-free
- Most affordable premium stone option
Natural Diamond
Formed over billions of years under extraordinary heat and pressure deep within the earth, natural diamonds carry a geological uniqueness that no laboratory can replicate. Each stone is a singular object.
Natural diamonds have been the symbol of enduring commitment for centuries. Their rarity, combined with the weight of geological history, makes them irreplaceable to many. Certified by GIA or AGS, each stone is graded individually for the four Cs: cut, colour, clarity, and carat.
Hardness
10 Mohs
Refractive Index
2.42
Brilliance
Exceptional
Origin
Earth-mined
Price Range
£££
Certification
GIA / AGS
- Formed naturally over billions of years
- Unique, irreplaceable geological provenance
- Certified by GIA or AGS
- Strong secondary market value
Comparison
A direct look at how each stone performs across the properties that matter most.
| Lab Diamond | Moissanite | Natural Diamond | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hardness (Mohs) | 10 | 9.25 | 10 |
| Refractive Index | 2.42 | 2.65 | 2.42 |
| Fire & Dispersion | High | Very High | High |
| Brilliance | Exceptional | Very High | Exceptional |
| Origin | Laboratory | Laboratory | Earth-mined |
| Conflict-free | Yes | Yes | Depends on source |
| Certification | IGI / GIA | Varies | GIA / AGS |
| Price Range | ££ | £ | £££ |
All values are approximate. Certification availability may vary by stone source.
Not Sure Which Stone Is Right?
Our team is happy to guide you through the decision. Every piece we create is confirmed with you before production begins.