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Natural vs Lab Grown Diamonds Workbench Comparison

Natural vs Lab Grown Diamonds: What Should You Choose?

Written by Tom McDanielson on . Posted in Engagements, Rings.

If you’re choosing an engagement ring today, you’ll almost certainly come across the question of natural versus lab grown diamonds.Both are real diamonds.Both are made from carbon.Both are incredibly hard, durable, and suitable for everyday wear.At first glance, they can appear almost identical.The real difference lies in where they come from, what they represent, and how you feel about wearing them.

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What Is A Natural Diamond?

A natural diamond is formed deep within the earth over billions of years through immense heat and pressure before eventually being brought closer to the surface through volcanic activity.

Every natural diamond is the result of a process that cannot be replicated by time alone. It is a finite material created by nature over a timescale far beyond human experience.

For many people, that rarity and permanence form part of the appeal.

What Is A Lab Grown Diamond?

A lab grown diamond has the same chemical composition as a natural diamond but is created in a controlled environment using modern technology.

It is still a real diamond.

It is not cubic zirconia, moissanite, or an imitation stone.

To the eye, a lab grown diamond can look identical to a natural diamond.

The difference is that one was formed naturally over billions of years, while the other was manufactured in a matter of weeks.

Why Are Lab Grown Diamonds Less Expensive?

The primary reason is supply.

Natural diamonds are finite.

Lab grown diamonds can be produced whenever there is demand.

As manufacturing processes improve and production increases, prices continue to fall.

This allows buyers to purchase larger stones for the same budget.

The Question Of Value

For some people, a diamond is simply about appearance.

For others, the story behind the stone matters just as much as how it looks.

Natural diamonds remain rare because nature creates them in limited quantities.

Lab grown diamonds can be reproduced indefinitely.

As a result, natural diamonds have historically held their value more effectively, while lab grown diamonds have seen significant price reductions as production has expanded.

My View As A Goldsmith

Both natural and lab grown diamonds can be used to create beautiful engagement rings.

However, I personally favour natural diamonds.

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Not because lab grown diamonds are inferior, but because I believe engagement rings should celebrate authenticity.

A natural diamond carries a story that cannot be recreated. It is a material shaped by the earth itself and formed long before any of us existed.

That feels meaningful in a way that a manufactured alternative never quite does.

If a client wants the character, rarity and history that diamonds are known for, I will usually recommend a natural stone.

Considering Alternatives?

If budget is the main concern, my preference is often not to replace a natural diamond with a lab grown version.

Instead, it can be worth exploring other beautiful natural gemstones.

Using Family Diamonds In A New Engagement Ring

Sapphires, spinels, garnets and other coloured stones each have their own character, history and identity.

Rather than choosing a manufactured version of a diamond, some clients prefer to choose a different natural gemstone entirely and celebrate what makes that material unique.

Which Should You Choose?

There is no universal right answer.

A lab grown diamond may suit someone whose priority is achieving the largest possible stone for their budget.

A natural diamond may suit someone who values rarity, geological history and the idea of wearing something that nature created over billions of years.

The best choice is the one that aligns with your priorities and the story you want your ring to tell.

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At The Middle Green, every engagement ring begins with a conversation. Whether you choose a natural diamond, an heirloom stone, or an alternative gemstone, the goal remains the same: creating a piece with lasting personal significance that can be worn, lived with and eventually passed on.

FAQs

Are lab grown diamonds real diamonds?

Yes. Lab grown diamonds have the same chemical composition and hardness as natural diamonds.

Can you tell the difference between a natural and lab grown diamond?

In most cases, no. Specialist equipment is often required to identify the origin of a diamond.

Do natural diamonds hold their value better?

Historically, natural diamonds have retained value more effectively due to their limited supply, while lab grown diamond prices have generally fallen as production has increased.

Can I use a sapphire instead of a diamond for an engagement ring?

Yes. Sapphires are one of the most popular alternatives to diamonds and are available in a wide range of colours.

Can I use a family diamond in a new engagement ring?

In many cases, yes. Existing diamonds can often be incorporated into a completely new bespoke design.

Textured yellow and rose gold wedding bands resting among rosemary branches, handmade by Tom McDanielson of The Middle Green

How to Choose a Wedding Ring That You’ll Still Love in 20 Years

Written by Tom McDanielson on . Posted in Guides, Rings, Weddings.

Choosing a wedding ring is different from choosing most other jewellery.

It is something you will wear every day. Through work, travel, routine, and change. Over time, it becomes less about how it looks in a box, and more about how it feels as part of your life.

The best wedding rings are not the ones that feel exciting in the moment. They are the ones that still feel right years later.

Here is what actually matters.

Start with how it will be worn, not how it looks

Most people begin with appearance. Width, finish, metal.

A better place to start is your day to day life.

Do you work with your hands
Are you active
Do you wear jewellery already

A ring that looks perfect in a photo can feel intrusive if it is too thick, too sharp on the edges, or simply unfamiliar on your hand.

If it doesn’t feel natural within a few days, it won’t feel natural in ten years.

Simplicity tends to last longer

There is a reason most wedding rings are relatively understated.

Trends change. Preferences shift. What feels bold now can feel dated later.

Simple forms, considered proportions, and honest materials tend to age better.

This does not mean plain. It means intentional.

A subtle texture, a soft matte finish, or a slight variation in profile often carries more longevity than anything overly decorative.

Proportion matters more than people expect

Width and thickness change how a ring feels far more than how it looks.

A ring that is too narrow can feel insubstantial. Too wide, and it can become uncomfortable, especially between the fingers.

As a general guide:

  • slimmer hands often suit narrower bands
  • larger hands can carry more width comfortably

But there are no fixed rules. The right proportion is the one that feels balanced on your hand.

Trying on different widths is one of the most valuable steps in the process.

Comfort is not optional

A wedding ring is worn constantly. Small details make a significant difference over time.

Things that matter:

  • slightly rounded inner edges (often called court profile)
  • softened outer edges
  • appropriate thickness for durability without bulk

A well-made ring should feel smooth, unobtrusive, and easy to forget you are wearing.

If you are constantly aware of it, something is off.

Think about how it will age

All jewellery changes over time.

Scratches, soft wear, and patina are part of the process. The goal is not to avoid this, but to choose a ring that ages well.

Consider:

  • matte finishes will develop a natural polish over time
  • highly polished rings will show scratches more clearly
  • heavier rings tend to wear more slowly than very thin ones

A good wedding ring should look better after years of wear, not worse.

Metal choice should be practical

The two most common choices are white gold and platinum. They behave differently over time.

White gold:

  • slightly warmer tone under plating
  • requires occasional rhodium replating to maintain a bright white finish
  • generally lighter

Platinum:

  • naturally white, no plating required
  • develops a soft grey patina rather than losing material
  • heavier feel on the hand

Neither is objectively better. It depends on whether you prefer lower maintenance or a specific look and feel.

Matching doesn’t have to mean identical

Many couples assume their rings need to match exactly.

In practice, the most successful pairings share a connection rather than a duplicate design.

This could be:

  • the same metal
  • a similar texture
  • a shared detail in the finish

But the width, profile, or overall shape can differ to suit each person.

This creates a sense of unity without compromise.

Choose something that feels like you

There is a quiet difference between a ring that looks good, and a ring that feels right.

The latter is harder to define, but easier to live with.

It usually comes down to:

  • proportion that suits your hand
  • a finish that aligns with your style
  • a weight that feels natural

If you find yourself overthinking it, you may be looking too far outward.

The right ring tends to feel resolved.

A final thought

A wedding ring is not just chosen once.

It is worn, marked, and lived with over time.

The goal is not perfection on day one. It is choosing something that will settle into your life and continue to feel like yours.

Explore our wedding rings

If you are at the stage of exploring options, you can view our current collection here: Shop Wedding Rings

Or, if you are looking for something more personal, we offer a small number of bespoke commissions each month. Enquire About a Bespoke Ring

The best alternatives to diamonds when choosing a stone for your wedding or engagement ring

Best Alternative Gemstones for Engagement and Wedding Rings

Written by Tom McDanielson on . Posted in Bespoke Jewellery, Engagements, Rings, Weddings. No Comments on Best Alternative Gemstones for Engagement and Wedding Rings

Diamonds are a classic choice for engagement or wedding rings, but they are far from the only option. Many couples today are drawn to alternative gemstones that offer colour, character, and deeper personal meaning, while still standing up to daily wear.

When choosing a gemstone for a ring you’ll wear every day, durability matters. Stones with higher hardness on the Mohs scale resist scratching and abrasion, helping your ring retain its beauty for decades.

Here’s a practical guide to the best alternative gemstones for engagement and wedding rings, and how to choose the right one for you.

Why Choose Diamond Alternatives for Engagement Rings?

Alternative gemstones allow couples to:

  • Express individuality through colour and distinctive design
  • Select stones with personal or symbolic meaning
  • Create a ring that feels intentional rather than conventional

Many gemstones offer excellent durability, making them well suited to engagement and wedding rings when properly set.

What Makes a Good Engagement Ring Gemstone?

When choosing a gemstone for an engagement or wedding ring, consider three key factors:

1. Durability

For daily wear, gemstones ideally fall above 7.5 on the Mohs hardness scale. These stones resist scratching and maintain polish over time.

Excellent choices include:

  • Sapphire
  • Ruby
  • Tsavorite garnet
  • Spinel
  • Alexandrite

These stones combine beauty with practical longevity.

2. Colour and Visual Character

Alternative gemstones open up a wide spectrum of colour:

  • Deep greens, vivid blues, rich reds, soft pastels, and inky dark tones
  • Subtle or saturated depending on your preference

Your metal choice influences the final look:

  • White gold and platinum complement cooler hues (blue sapphire, spinel, alexandrite)
  • Yellow and rose gold enhance warm tones (ruby, tsavorite, champagne sapphire)

3. Meaning and Symbolism

Many couples choose stones for their associations:

  • Sapphire: loyalty, wisdom, and lasting love
  • Ruby: passion, strength, and devotion
  • Tsavorite: growth, vitality, and prosperity
  • Spinel: renewal and resilience

Meaning can be personal rather than traditional. The most important factor is choosing a stone that resonates with you.

Best Diamond Alternatives for Engagement Rings

Sapphire

One of the most durable gemstones after diamond. Available in blue, green, yellow, pink, peach, and parti-colours. A timeless yet versatile choice.

Ruby

A variety of corundum (like sapphire) with exceptional hardness and a rich red colour. Ideal for those wanting a bold, romantic statement.

Tsavorite Garnet

Vivid green with excellent brilliance and strong durability. A striking alternative to emerald, but far tougher for everyday wear.

Spinel

Often overlooked, spinel comes in blues, greys, reds, pinks, and black. Hard, bright, and well suited to engagement rings.

Salt and Pepper Diamonds

Natural diamonds containing visible inclusions that create a smoky, speckled appearance. They offer the same durability as traditional diamonds, with a more organic, unconventional aesthetic.

Stones Better Suited for Accent Use

Softer gemstones such as quartz varieties (amethyst, citrine, rose quartz), turquoise, or malachite can be beautiful, but are more vulnerable to scratching. These stones work best as:

  • Accent stones
  • Occasional-wear rings
  • Heavily protected bezel or halo settings

For centre stones in engagement rings, higher-hardness gems are the safer choice.

Engagement Ring Design Approaches

When exploring the best alternative stones for engagement rings, consider these design approaches:

  • Single-stone rings: Showcase a sapphire, ruby, spinel, or tsavorite for a clean, timeless look.
  • Gemstone centre with diamond accents: Coloured centre stone with small diamonds for added sparkle and durability.
  • Bezel-set gemstones: A protective metal rim around the stone, ideal for active lifestyles.

Good design and setting choice significantly extend a gemstone’s lifespan. Browse our selection of handmade rings for inspiration.

Gemstones in Wedding Bands

Wedding bands can incorporate gemstones subtly:

  • Small sapphires or rubies set flush into the band
  • Mixed gemstone and diamond accents
  • Alternating coloured stones for symbolic meaning

These details add individuality without sacrificing practicality.

Bespoke Engagement and Wedding Rings

For couples who want a truly unique ring, bespoke options are the perfect solution. Allowing you to choose the exact gemstone you love, select a setting and metal that suits your lifestyle, and create something truly one of a kind.

At The Middle Green, we specialise in creating bespoke engagement and wedding rings using both traditional diamonds and carefully selected alternative gemstones.

Book your consultation to design a ring that reflects your story and will last a lifetime.

UK Ring Size Guide - how to find out your ring size

Ring Size Guide

Written by Tom McDanielson on . Posted in Gemstones, Rings. No Comments on Ring Size Guide

UK Ring Size Guide

Whether you are shopping for an engagement ring, wedding ring, or a ring for yourself; understanding ring sizes is essential to ensuring your new piece of jewellery fits properly.

A poorly fitted ring can be uncomfortable to wear if it’s too tight, or be more likely to slip off if it’s too loose, which could result in the ring being lost.

To help ensure your new ring is the perfect size, our expert jewellers at The Middle Green have created a UK ring size guide.

Looking for a bespoke engagement ring or wedding band? Book a consultation with goldsmith Tom McDanielson.

Ring Sizing Chart UK

In the UK, ring sizes range from A to Z. These sizes are based on the inside diameter and the circumference of the ring, measured in mm.

Ring Size Diameter (mm) Circumference (mm) Find Rings
A 12.04 37.8 Size A Rings
B 12.45 39.1 Size B Rings
C 12.85 40.4 Size C Rings
D 13.26 41.7 Size D Rings
E 13.67 41.7 Size E Rings
F 14.07 44.2 Size F Rings
G 14.48 45.5 Size G Rings
H 14.88 46.8 Size H Rings
I 15.29 48 Size I Rings
J 15.49 48.7 Size J Rings
K 15.9 50 Size K Rings
L 16.31 51.2 Size L Rings
M 16.71 52.5 Size M Rings
Ring Size Diameter (mm) Circumference (mm) Find Rings
N 17.12 53.8 Size N Rings
O 17.53 55.1 Size O Rings
P 17.93 56.3 Size P Rings
Q 18.34 57.6 Size Q Rings
R 18.75 58.9 Size R Rings
S 19.15 60.2 Size S Rings
T 19.56 61.4 Size T Rings
U 19.96 62.7 Size U Rings
V 20.37 64 Size V Rings
W 20.78 65.3 Size W Rings
X 21.18 66.6 Size X Rings
Y 21.59 67.8 Size Y Rings
Z 21.79 68.5 Size Z Rings

How to Measure Your Ring Size

Use these simple methods to get an accurate measurement of your ring size at home:

  • Use a Ring Sizer

    Ring sizing tools are widely available and low cost. These useful tools can help you determine the ring size for each of your fingers.

  • Use an Existing Ring

    If you have an existing ring, you can find out the size using the table above to ensure you purchase the correct size.

  • Use a DIY Measurement Tool

    Using a piece of string or tailors’ tape can help you determine the circumference of your finger which can be converted into a ring size using the table above.

Tips for Measuring Your Ring Finger

Follow our top tips to ensure that you get the most accurate measurement of your ring finger:

  • Find the average

    Your finger size can change throughout the day. Be sure to take several measurements to work out an average. 

  • Cold weather

    Cold weather makes your fingers smaller, so avoid measuring your fingers when cold. 

  • Pick the right finger

    Typically ring sizes differ between hands, so measure the exact finger you plan to wear the ring on.  

  • Large joints

    If you have larger finger joints, take this into account when measuring. You may need to choose a slightly larger size to ensure the ring can fit over your joints. 

How To Find Your Partner’s Ring Size

If you want to secretly find your partner’s ring size to surprise them with a gift or a proposal, try these tips:

  • Use Existing Ring

    Measuring an existing ring that your partner has can give you an accurate size; just ensure they wear the ring of their wedding finger if you’re planning to propose!

  • Use Your Own Ring Size

    Measuring your own ring size and trying your partner’s rings on can help you figure out what size ring they are.

  • Consider a Promise Ring

    If you want to ensure the fit is perfect, consider gifting your partner a promise ring before getting their exact measurements for the wedding ring. 

FAQs

  • Can rings be made bigger or smaller?

    If you do purchase a ring that is the wrong size, it can be possible to adjust the size to make it bigger or smaller. However, this will be dependent on the material and design of the ring.

  • Are ring sizes different for men and women?

    While women often wear smaller ring sizes, the ring sizing system is unisex and does not differ between men and women

  • Can you get half sizes in rings?

    Yes. Whilst most jewellers offer sizes ranging from A-Z, it is possible to get rings in half sizes. When choosing a bespoke ring, it will be made to your exact size for a perfect fit every time.

  • Do UK ring sizes differ from international sizes?

    Yes, UK rings are sized using an alphabetical scale, in contrast to European sizing which uses a numerical scale based on circumference and U.S. and Canadian sizes, which use a numerical scale with half and quarter sizes.

Find the Perfect Fit with The Middle Green

Ready to find your perfect ring? At The Middle Green, we offer a curated collection of handmade rings including engagement rings, wedding rings, diamond rings, couples sets and so much more.

Explore our range of stunning rings suitable for any style and occasion now, all available to purchase online exclusively from our online shop.

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