The Great Diamond Debate Returns: A New Era in the Natural vs. Lab-Grown Rivalry

Jeweller magazine has officially confirmed the return of its special feature, “The Great Diamond Debate,” scheduled for release this December. This comprehensive dossier dives back into the heated standoff between mined diamonds and lab-grown stones—a topic that continues to split the market even after seven years of massive disruption.

A Sector Reshaped by the Pandemic, New Gens, and Tech

Since the inaugural edition in 2018, the industry has undergone a seismic shift. The COVID-19 pandemic completely disrupted supply chains, postponed weddings, and fast-tracked the adoption of jewelry e-commerce.

Simultaneously, Millennial and Gen Z consumers have taken center stage. These demographics are prioritizing experiences over goods, scrutinizing costs with a critical eye, and are increasingly open to synthetic alternatives for celebrating life’s major milestones.

Technology has also raised the stakes. Artificial intelligence and social media have overhauled how jewelry is sold, while advanced screening tools have become non-negotiable for distinguishing natural diamonds from their lab-created counterparts.

Recent Events Reignite the Controversy

The debate has intensified due to several key events in 2025:

• De Beers Shifts Strategy: In May, De Beers shuttered its Lightbox Jewelry operation after seven years. The company cited crashing prices in the lab-grown sector and a renewed commitment to natural gems as the primary reasons.

• GIA’s New Standards: In June, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) announced a pivot in certification terminology. Terms traditionally used to grade natural stones will no longer apply to lab versions; instead, synthetic stones will receive “premium” or “standard” classifications.

• CIBJO’s Stance: The World Jewellery Confederation (CIBJO) announced a review of its position on terminology, arguing that synthetic diamond companies have exploited “inclusive” language to boost commercial interests at the expense of the natural segment’s reputation.

The marketing vibe has shifted to “No more Mr. Nice Guy.” Advocates on both sides are now aggressively battling for market share, controlling the narrative on origin, value, and environmental impact.

The Trump Factor and Trade Tensions

The special report also zooms in on the political backdrop. The trade policies of Donald Trump’s second term (2025-2029) have influenced tariffs and export routes, directly impacting the availability of rough diamonds and supplies for laboratories. This geopolitical landscape adds a complex layer to the conversation regarding production costs and global competitiveness.

A 360-Degree View: No Clear Winner

Expect insights from a wide range of voices: analysts, miners, synthetic producers, retailers, and gemological labs. The report will analyze price history, sales volume, and profit margins while tackling ethical debates and consumer perception.

According to Jeweller’s editorial team, the goal isn’t to declare a champion between natural and lab-grown diamonds. Instead, the aim is to map the forces defining the sector’s future, offering readers a landscape where hard data meets conceptual analysis.

Market Outlook: What’s Next?

As synthetic diamond prices slide and demand for natural jewelry shows signs of stabilizing, manufacturers are hunting for new differentiation strategies. Terms like “lab-grown,” “lab-created,” and “synthetic” still carry heavy connotations that influence perceived value. Clear communication and proper certification are becoming critical for building consumer trust.

Retailers are also noting a shift toward transparency and social responsibility among younger buyers. This trend could favor both mines that adopt sustainable practices and laboratories that utilize 100% renewable energy.

The third edition of “The Great Diamond Debate” arrives at a pivotal moment where price, language, and buying behavior are converging to redefine what luxury means in the gem trade.