5 Secrets Jewelers Reveal about Lab-Grown Diamond Engagement Rings

The love for diamonds is something all women feel, and celebs are no exception. Rihanna’s penchant for diamonds is no secret. The Barbadian star is often spotted wearing a giant sparkler on her ring finger or dripping in ice around her neck as she steps out.

She’s constantly reminding her Navy (diehard Rihanna fans) to “shine bright like a diamond.” Now we know the true meaning of the song, kinda. When RiRi hits the high notes of that song, she’s singing about lab-grown diamonds. We made that part up. But it could be true to some degree.

The Umbrella star has been a longstanding advocate for sustainable diamonds. She oozed sophistication and style for her 3oth birthday party, stepping out with a ring decked with rubies and pink sapphires. 

The pièce de résistance was the 16-carat lab-grown diamonds as the centerpiece. Jewelry experts estimated the ring to be worth more than $100,000.

Supply and Demand

If there’s anyone who can influence the masses, it’s Rihana. She and other A-list stars could be the reason for the boom in lab-grown diamond sales in recent times. Statista reported that lab-grown diamonds accounted for 7% of overall diamond jewelry sales in the U.S. in 2022.

Lab-grown diamond engagement rings are becoming a popular choice these days, and for valid reasons. During a 2023 Real Weddings survey, about a third of couples said having a lab-grown diamond was as important due to their ethical considerations. 

Many couples are choosing this route. After all, they’re cheaper and sustainable, which makes them easy to own.

Ready to pop the Big Question with a synthetic diamond ring? Below, we’ll share five secrets from jewelers on lab-grown diamond engagement rings.

#1. The Price is Right

Customers are aware that their pieces have no resale value. However, for them, it’s all about the price.

Shopping for engagement rings is expensive. Couples want to start married life on the right foot and debt-free. 

When they’re presented with a 1-carat natural diamond and a 3-carat lab-grown diamond, there’s no comparison. The mined diamond valued at $5,000 prices them out of the market, whereas the synthetic version is only $2,000. 

The options are just as varied when purchasing an engagement ring online. Grown Brilliance says jewelers offer free shipping, free returns and a lifetime warranty.

#2. Spot the Difference

The biggest myth is that lab diamonds are not 100% real. They are as real as rare mined diamonds
 

Synthetic diamonds are created under human-made conditions, while rare diamonds are formed in the Earth’s crust over billions of years.

Both share the same chemical and physical properties, and it’s virtually impossible to tell them apart unless you have access to specialist lab equipment.

#3. Placing a Value on Love

The monetary value of each stone is assigned by the market and not its inherent value. 

Consumers must know that a synthetic diamond engagement ring is not purchased for its value but as a symbol of love.

#4. Grading

Lab diamonds are held to the same grading standards as mined diamonds. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and the International Gemological Institute (IGI) are tasked with issuing certifications based on the 4 Cs: clarity, cut, color and carat.

Rare diamonds are known to be one of the hardest materials found on Earth. However, synthetic diamonds match their toughness. 

Avi Levy, president of North America for the International Gemological Institute, tells the Huffington Post that the lab-grown gem scored a 10 (highest value) on the Mohs scale, which defines the hardness of materials.

#5. Clarity and Color

Purists might argue that lab diamonds can’t compare to rare diamonds when it comes to clarity and color. Wrong! Another myth busted.

As mentioned, lab-grown diamonds are graded on the same scale. Magazine editor Maria Doulton suggests engaged couples opt for varieties graded between G and J as these are close to colorless. Diamonds graded D to F are true colorless diamonds but are rare and expensive.

Whether they’re made in a lab or mined deep from the Earth’s core, diamonds will always be in demand. A symbol of everlasting love, asking for someone’s hand in marriage with a diamond ring is the biggest romantic gesture.
 

So, why not declare your undying love with a lab-grown diamond ring? That extra money saved can go towards a luxury honeymoon or a downpayment on your dream home. Now, that’s the start of a blessed union.

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