Pink Lab Diamonds vs Natural Pink Sapphires for an Engagement Ring

In this guide

    By Clint Casmiro, Co-Founder, Smiro Studio, Toronto · Updated September 27, 2026

    Short answer: A pink lab grown diamond is a real diamond (10 on the Mohs scale) with pink colour, and costs far less than a natural pink diamond. A natural pink sapphire is a different gem (9 on the Mohs scale), mined, with its own range of pinks, peaches and padparadscha tones. Both make great engagement rings. We carry both and film every stone.

    Pink is one of the colours we love hunting down. Here is how to choose between the two.

    What is the difference between a pink diamond and a pink sapphire?

    Material. A diamond is carbon and scores 10 on the Mohs hardness scale. A sapphire is corundum and scores 9, still very hard and excellent for daily wear. Diamonds have more fire. Sapphires tend to carry deeper, more saturated colour.

    Are pink lab diamonds real?

    Yes. They are real diamonds grown in a lab and certified by IGI, which states the colour grade, like Fancy Intense Pink. See what is available in our pink lab diamonds collection.

    What are natural pink sapphires like?

    Every one is different. Our natural pink sapphires range from light and vivid pinks to peach and orangy pink, with origins like Madagascar and Mozambique. Some are heated, some are not, and the lab report says which.

    Which pinks are hardest to find?

    The soft, pale ones. A whisper of pink is much rarer than a deep saturated stone, because the colour has to line up just right. When one comes along, we grab it.

    How do I choose without seeing it in person?

    Video. We film every coloured stone, because colour is the whole point and photos rarely get it right.

    Want us to look at your idea?

    A free 30 minute video call with Clint or Karina. Bring a photo, a budget, or nothing at all.

    Book a free callSee our process

    Questions we get about this

    Is a pink sapphire good for an engagement ring?

    Yes. At 9 on the Mohs scale it is durable enough for everyday wear.

    Are pink lab diamonds certified?

    Yes, they come with IGI reports that state the colour grade and lab grown origin.

    What is a padparadscha sapphire?

    A rare sapphire with a mix of pink and orange, often described as sunset coloured.

    Can I see the stone before buying?

    Yes. We send real video of every coloured stone.

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