Navigating the village marketplace requires clear comparative benchmarks. The data below outlines structural, economic, and verification differences across commercial stone categories in 2026:
| Attribute & Criteria | Natural Earth-Mined Diamond | Lab Grown Diamond (HPHT/CVD) | Moissanite / Simulant |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.0-Carat Benchmark Cost (F-G / VS1) | $14,500, $21,000 | $1,300, $2,200 | $350, $600 |
| Resale / Liquidation Retention | 50%, 65% of wholesale baseline | Under 10% (negligible buyback) | 0% (pure retail consumable) |
| Primary Identification Technique | Spectroscopy (Nitrogen aggregation) | UV luminescence, Seed lines, Inscription | Double refraction under loupe |
| Standard Paperwork Requirement | Full GIA Diamond Dossier | GIA LG Report or IGI Digital Dossier | Manufacturer Certificate |
