For decades, mined diamonds have been the gem of choice for engagement rings. Lab grown diamonds, however, are just as real and cost up to 70% less. Affordable lab grown diamond engagement rings are the future!
An engagement ring is more than a piece of jewelry. It’s a symbol of commitment and love. Fortunately, couples no longer have to sink a lot of money into this important symbol — lab grown diamonds are good deals!
What Are Lab Grown Diamond Engagement Rings?
Simply put, lab grown diamond engagement rings feature diamonds created in a controlled environment using advanced technology.1 Unlike the diamonds formed naturally over millions of years, they’re produced in labs using techniques like High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD). The result? Diamonds that are chemically, physically, and optically identical to mined ones, showcasing the same radiant sparkle and allure.
Aleona/ShutterstockLab Grown Diamonds vs. Mined Diamonds
When deciding between lab grown and mined diamonds, there are three overall considerations — origin, appearance, and cost. Let’s take a closer look:
Formation Process
Lab grown diamonds are products of human ingenuity, formed using precise scientific methods.
Mined diamonds take nature millions of years to form deep within the Earth’s crust. While both yield the coveted gem, their journey to your ring finger is remarkably distinct.
Appearance and Quality
Fear not, for lab grown diamonds radiate the same brilliance and fire as their mined counterparts. To the naked eye and even under magnification, the differences are indiscernible. This assurance in similarity fortifies their position as a viable alternative.
Price
Here’s where lab grown diamonds really sparkle: they’re typically 50% to 70% less expensive than mined diamonds.2 This doesn’t mean a compromise on quality but reflects the reduced costs in their creation and supply chain. Pocket the savings or get a bigger ring.
The Benefits of Lab Grown Diamond Engagement Rings
Lab grown diamonds not only shine in appearance but also in the range of advantages they offer. Here’s a look at the benefits:
- Price Benefits: With lab grown diamonds, you can expect the same quality appearance at a fraction of the price. Your money stretches further, allowing you to choose a grander ring or save for future expenses.
- Sustainability and Ethical Benefits: From a reduced carbon footprint to conflict-free assurances, lab grown diamonds also have substantial environmental and ethical advantages over mined diamonds.
- Transparency and Traceability Benefits: Unlike the often murky supply chains of mined diamonds, lab grown diamonds come with clear provenance, ensuring you truly know the story behind your gem.
How To Find the Right Engagement Ring
A blend of personal tastes, traditions, and modern choices can influence your decision. Here’s a roadmap to guide you through the essential considerations:
- Understanding the 4Cs: Whether mined or lab grown, a diamond’s value is determined by its Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat.4 Familiarize yourself with these to make an informed decision.
- Selecting the Right Setting: From classic solitaires to intricate vintage designs, ensure you pick a setting that complements the diamond and resonates with the wearer’s personal style.
- Budget Considerations: It’s essential to have a clear budget in mind. With the cost benefits of lab grown diamonds, however, you might find that your budget allows for a larger stone.
Shopping Online for Lab Grown Diamond Engagement Rings
With the digital age upon us, online shopping offers a convenient, often superior, method to purchase engagement rings:
- Vast Selection: Online retailers typically have a broader range than brick-and-mortar stores.
- Better Prices: Online platforms often have lower overhead costs than physical stores, passing on the savings to consumers.
- Convenience: Browse, compare, and purchase from the comfort of your home.
- Educational Resources: Many online platforms offer detailed buying guides, 360-degree views, and customer support to help you choose.
- Returns and Warranties: Reputable online jewelers offer robust return policies and guarantees, ensuring peace of mind with your purchase.
While there’s an allure to physically seeing a diamond in-store, the advantages of online shopping — especially the range, convenience, and often better prices — give it a distinct edge.
The Bottom Line
With lab grown diamonds, you’re not just opting for an affordable alternative to mined diamonds but embracing a sustainable, ethical, and transparent future. As consumers become increasingly conscious of their purchasing decisions, lab grown diamond engagement rings represent a forward-thinking approach to luxury and responsibility.
Their rise in popularity is a testament to the evolving values of modern consumers, where cost-effectiveness goes hand in hand with ethical sourcing and environmental considerations. When you choose a lab grown diamond engagement ring, you’re aligning with this wave of change, ensuring that your symbol of love is both modern and meaningful.