While most natural diamonds on the market today are technically compliant with the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) — the UN-backed system created to prevent the trade of conflict diamonds — the KPCS has important limitations.

Many diamonds are still sold in mixed-origin lots, which means stones from multiple countries are combined and redistributed without individual provenance. Even when a parcel is labeled “conflict-free,” the specific mine or country of origin often isn’t documented, and the KPCS does not address broader ethical issues such as labor practices, environmental impact, or community welfare.

We believe in a more transparent approach. Whenever a diamond comes with verified, mine-to-market documentation, we list that origin clearly. When a diamond’s origin is unknown, which is common in the global natural diamond supply, we state that openly as well. This allows us to offer a range of ethically sourced, responsibly vetted stones across different budgets, including more accessible options where traceability isn’t available.

Our priority is honest communication: whether a diamond’s origin is traceable or not, we will always tell you exactly what we know so you can choose the stone that aligns with your values.

Natural and lab-grown diamonds are chemically and visually identical: both are real diamonds made of pure carbon. The main difference lies in their formation. Natural diamonds form over billions of years deep within the Earth, while lab-grown diamonds are created using advanced technology that replicates those same conditions in a controlled environment.

At MAIA & LYRA, we offer both options: naturally formed diamonds for those who value geological rarity, and lab-grown diamonds for couples who prefer sustainability, traceability, or a larger stone within the same budget.

Lab-grown diamonds generally have a lower environmental impact because they don’t require large-scale mining, and many are produced using energy-efficient methods. Some lab diamonds — including SCS-007 certified stones — go a step further by meeting strict standards for traceability, climate neutrality, and responsible manufacturing.

We do our very best to select lab-grown diamonds from trusted partners who prioritize sustainability, transparency, and ethical production with an SCS certification so you know your stone aligns with your values.

Lab-grown diamonds offer incredible beauty, brilliance and size for the price, but they typically have a lower long-term resale value compared to natural diamonds. Many couples choose lab-grown stones because they prioritize affordablility and carat size without compromising quality.

We encourage clients to choose the diamond that best reflects their priorities: natural diamonds for geological rarity and traditional value, or lab-grown diamonds for modern ethics and budget-friendly luxury. There’s no “right” choice: just the one that fits your love story.