Lab grown diamonds have taken the jewellery world by storm, offering a stunning alternative to natural diamonds. These gems are not only affordable but also sustainable, making them a favourite among modern buyers.

If you’re in the market for a diamond, but you’re not quite sure where to start, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about choosing the perfect lab grown diamond.

Why Lab Grown Diamonds Are a Popular Choice

Lab grown diamonds have skyrocketed in popularity over the past few years, and it’s easy to see why. They offer the same sparkle and durability as natural diamonds, but without the environmental and ethical concerns that come with mining.

For couples looking for a more eco-conscious option, lab grown diamonds are a perfect match. You can explore more options in the lab grown diamonds section to find the perfect stone.

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In addition to their sustainability, lab grown diamonds are typically more affordable than their natural counterparts. You can get a larger or higher quality diamond for the same price, meaning you won’t have to compromise on your dream gem.

Understanding the Difference Between Lab Grown and Natural Diamonds

Before diving into your diamond search, it’s important to understand what sets lab grown diamonds apart from natural ones. While both are made from carbon and share the same physical and chemical properties, the key difference lies in their origin.

Lab grown diamonds are created in a laboratory using advanced technology that replicates the natural process of diamond formation. This means they are chemically identical to natural diamonds, with the same brilliance and hardness.

The only major distinction is their origin story—one is formed over millions of years beneath the Earth’s surface, while the other is grown in a controlled lab environment. To the naked eye, there’s no way to tell the difference, and even experts need specialised equipment to distinguish between the two.

If you want to explore both options, you can check out some stunning fancy coloured diamonds and compare them to lab grown versions.

Evaluating a Lab Grown Diamond: The 4 Cs

When it comes to choosing a diamond, whether lab grown or natural, you’ll want to pay attention to the famous 4 Cs: Cut, Clarity, Colour, and Carat. These factors will determine the overall beauty and value of your diamond.

Cut: The Key to Sparkle

The cut of a diamond is arguably the most important factor in determining its brilliance. A well-cut diamond reflects light beautifully, giving it that signature sparkle. Lab grown diamonds come in a range of cuts, from the classic round brilliant to the more contemporary princess or emerald cuts.

When selecting a cut, consider both personal style and the way the diamond catches the light. A round brilliant cut, for instance, maximises sparkle, while an emerald cut offers a more elegant and understated shimmer. Explore the options for a round lab grown diamond or a princess cut diamond to match your style.

Clarity: What to Look For

Clarity refers to the presence of internal imperfections, known as inclusions, and external blemishes. While no diamond is entirely free from imperfections, many of these are invisible to the naked eye.

Lab grown diamonds typically have fewer inclusions than natural diamonds because their growth conditions can be more controlled. That said, it’s still worth examining the clarity grade when shopping for your diamond. Aim for a diamond with a clarity grade of VS1 or higher for an eye-clean appearance.

Colour: Finding the Right Shade

Diamond colour is graded on a scale from D (colourless) to Z (light yellow). The closer a diamond is to being colourless, the more valuable it tends to be. Lab grown diamonds are available in a wide range of colour grades, so you can find the perfect shade to suit your preferences.

If you’re after the classic, icy look, opt for a diamond in the D-F range. However, if you prefer a warmer tone or are working with a tighter budget, diamonds in the G-J range offer great value.

You can explore different shapes in the lab grown diamond section of the site to match your preferences.

Carat: Striking a Balance

Carat weight refers to the size of the diamond. While it’s tempting to go for the largest diamond you can afford, bigger doesn’t always mean better. A smaller diamond with a higher cut quality can often outshine a larger one with a poor cut.

When choosing your lab grown diamond, strike a balance between size and quality. Consider what’s most important to you—whether that’s sparkle, size, or a mix of both.

Choosing the Perfect Shape for Your Diamond

The shape of your diamond is another key consideration, and it largely comes down to personal style. Some of the most popular shapes include round, oval, princess, and emerald cuts, each offering a unique look.

  • Round: The round brilliant is the most popular shape and offers the most sparkle due to its symmetrical cut.
  • Oval: Oval diamonds are a great option if you want something a bit different but still classic. They elongate the finger and offer a similar brilliance to round cuts. Check out the oval lab grown diamonds for a stylish option.
  • Princess: The princess cut is square in shape and has a modern, geometric appeal.
  • Emerald: If you prefer understated elegance, the emerald cut offers a sophisticated look with long, clean lines. Browse the stunning emerald cut lab grown diamonds for inspiration.

Choose a shape that resonates with your personal style and complements the setting you have in mind.

The Importance of Diamond Certification

When purchasing a lab grown diamond, it’s essential to ensure that it comes with a certification from a reputable grading lab. Certification not only verifies the authenticity of the diamond but also provides details about its 4 Cs.

Look for certificates from trusted organisations such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the International Gemological Institute (IGI). These labs provide thorough evaluations of the diamond’s quality, so you know exactly what you’re buying.

Selecting the Right Setting and Metal

The setting plays a crucial role in showcasing your diamond and protecting it from damage. Whether you prefer a classic solitaire or a more elaborate halo setting, it’s important to choose a design that complements the shape and size of your diamond.

In terms of metal, you’ll want to consider options such as white gold, yellow gold, rose gold, and platinum. Platinum is durable and hypoallergenic, while gold offers warmth and a variety of colour options.

For more guidance on the perfect diamond shape and setting, you can check out the range of cushion cut diamonds or even the timeless radiant cut lab grown diamonds.

Budgeting for Your Lab Grown Diamond

One of the main advantages of lab grown diamonds is their affordability compared to natural diamonds. That said, you’ll still want to set a budget to ensure you get the best value for your money.

Prioritise what matters most to you—whether that’s size, clarity, or cut—and allocate your budget accordingly. Remember, a well-cut diamond with slightly lower clarity or colour can still look stunning without breaking the bank.

Where to Buy a Lab Grown Diamond

When it comes to buying your lab grown diamond, you’ll need to decide whether to shop online or visit a physical store. Both options have their pros and cons.

  • Online: Buying online gives you access to a wider range of diamonds and often better prices. Reputable online retailers also offer detailed product descriptions and certificates, so you know exactly what you’re getting.
  • In-store: Shopping in person allows you to see the diamonds up close and ask questions directly. However, prices may be higher due to the overhead costs of running a physical store.

Whichever route you choose, make sure the retailer is trustworthy and offers a solid return policy. To learn more about the variety of options available, you can visit the diamond dealer page for more insight.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lab Grown Diamonds

Are lab grown diamonds real?

Yes, lab grown diamonds are real diamonds. They have the same chemical, physical, and optical properties as natural diamonds.

Do lab grown diamonds hold value?

Lab grown diamonds tend to have a lower resale value than natural diamonds. However, this is evolving as they become more accepted in the market.

Can you tell the difference between lab grown and natural diamonds?

Without specialised equipment, it’s impossible to tell the difference between a lab grown and a natural diamond. Even experienced jewellers need advanced tools to differentiate the two.

Choosing the perfect lab grown diamond doesn’t have to be daunting. By understanding the 4 Cs, selecting the right shape and setting, and buying from a reputable retailer, you can find a stunning diamond that suits your style and budget.

Whether you’re looking for a classic engagement ring or a dazzling gift, lab grown diamonds offer endless possibilities.

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