Lab-grown diamonds represent a groundbreaking discovery in the jewellery sector. How astonishing is it that we can compress millions of years of Earth’s geological transformation into merely 15 days, creating a rare and precious diamond within the confines of a small laboratory?
Your reasons for finally making the switch to lab-grown diamonds could be anything from affordability to choosing sustainability. Whether this is your first time opting for conscious luxury for yourself or intending to gift it to a loved one, it’s easy to get lost in information overload.
That’s why we present to you this one-stop guide, the only reference you will ever need on how to choose the right lab-grown diamond. We’ll break down all the nitty-gritty details, so you make the right decision without any fuss.
Familiarise Yourself With The 4Cs: Cut, Carat, Clarity, And Colour
Carat Size
Carat size isn’t just about weight; it’s like finding the perfect fit for your diamond. When choosing a carat size, it’s all about what feels right for you. Whether it’s a modest 0-1 carat for your everyday ring or a statement-making over 2 carats for that one-of-a-kind engagement ring, this decision adds a personal touch to your final selection. It’s like picking the ideal companion that complements your style and story.
Cut
The cut of a diamond tells you about the symmetry, polish, and proportion. It majorly defines how well the diamond reflects light and its capacity to shine.
Colour
Diamonds are given grades based on their colour, ranging from D (colourless) to Z (yellow). The absence of colour is considered the most valuable trait of a diamond, increasing its overall desirability.
Clarity
Diamond clarity is measured from flawless (which means no imperfection with 10x magnification) to included (imperfection visible under the naked eye) So, the higher the clarity grade, the better the diamond quality. Since lab-grown diamonds are produced under a controlled environment by experts, there are fewer chances of them possessing even minor imperfections.
When you know the 4Cs, you feel more confident and empowered in your decision.
Check the Certificate
When it comes to lab-grown diamonds certificates are nothing but credentials. Just like natural diamonds, these diamonds are certified by renowned international laboratories like SGL and IGI. A trustworthy jeweller proudly displays these certificates, assuring you that qualified experts have meticulously examined the diamond’s characteristics, 4Cs, grading, and shape. These certificates are like a seal of approval, offering tangible proof that your diamond is genuine and possesses the qualities you seek.
Study the shapes
Gone are the days of heading to diamond shopping unprepared without knowing the shape that suits you best. So, do your homework on shapes, encompassing basic ones like brilliance and round, as well as more fancy shapes like ovals, marquise radiant, and cushions.
Additionally, be aware that certain shapes, like princess, emerald, and pear, can make a diamond appear larger even with a smaller carat.
Also, consider your personal preferences; whether you are a minimalist bride opting for a round brilliance or an extravaganza seeking a rock-like shape, learning your preferences beforehand will narrow down your options to find that perfect diamond.
Make a Decision on the Metal
Whether you favour the timeless versatility of gold, the trendy allure of rose gold with pink undertones, or the cool lustre of platinum or white gold that mirrors your diamond’s brilliance, it’s time to decide on the metal.
Inquire about the karat, which signifies purity; presently, 18 karat and 14 karat are popular for their lack of a yellowish hue and increased durability. Ensure your choice complements both your skin tone and the selected diamond. As a general guide, warmer tones pair well with yellow and rose gold, while cooler tones harmonise with silver and platinum.
Tailor your metal choice based on the occasion; for engagements or weddings, consider a more valuable band like platinum or gold.
Discover Your Inspiration
Building on this research, create mood boards featuring different diamond shapes, assessing how well they complement various band metals. Explore trending styles like halo rings, antique rings, and toi et moi rings, and find inspiration that resonates with you. Additionally, consider if you plan to build a stack of rings in the future, ensuring that the shapes and types honour your personal choices.
Consider Your Budget
The allure of lab-grown diamonds shines even brighter with their reduced cost, typically ranging from 40–60% less than mined diamonds. This means that the budget you might allocate for a small natural diamond ring could potentially afford you a substantial princess diamond ring when opting for lab-grown diamonds. Furthermore, purchasing diamonds without a specific occasion or gifting them to loved ones becomes more convenient with lab-grown diamonds. Therefore, when planning your budget, keep in mind that lab-grown diamonds are already more affordable than their naturally mined counterparts.
Choose a Reputable Company
Now that your groundwork is complete, consider a few key factors when selecting a lab-grown diamond jeweller. Ask if they offer customisation options for design, diamond shape, and metal. Also, inquire about the certifications they provide and the specifics covered in these certificates. This information will help you determine the safety of your investment.
Buying your first lab-grown diamond is a step towards kindness and a conscious choice for cruelty-free luxury. Therefore, it’s essential to approach your first purchase well-informed, and this blog provides you with all the right considerations you need to take.
At Jewelbox, we not only provide you with legitimate certificates but also a sea of options to explore and customise options. We make sure that your step towards sustainable diamond shopping is valued and appreciated.
