It’s proposal season, the perfect time to present a diamond ring to your partner and pledge your loyalty and commitment. While diamonds come in all shapes and sizes, there is a new and better way to purchase yours: lab-grown diamonds. In this blog post, we’ll explain the benefits of lab-grown diamond rings vs. natural diamonds. We’ll also provide tips on how to spot quality lab-created diamonds, where to find the best lab-grown diamond rings for engagements, and explain whether lab grown are real diamonds. Are they?! I was curious about the answer myself, so I did my research! In this blog post, we’ll identify the top lab-grown engagement rings with suggestions on what styles and shapes are trending.
But first, let’s talk about sparkle. The brilliance and sparkle of lab-grown vs. natural diamonds is similar to the eye; unless you have heavy magnification and are an expert jeweler, you likely won’t be able to tell the difference between the two. Here are some of the best lab-grown diamond rings, rated with high reviews and accolades in their categories, by one of the experts in the industry: Ben Garelick.
Let’s get started: you have a proposal to plan! :)
Best Princess-Cut: Astra
Go with this timeless and interstellar style featuring a 2-carat princess-cut diamond on an artistic setting that features meticulous milgrain detailing. It is the perfect ring for your timeless love story.
Best Twist: Ariel
Love a twist design? This engagement ring named Ariel features a signature Galactic head with 0.39 carats of round and marquise cut lab-grown diamonds in the top and sides of the ring. The twist design symbolizes the intertwining paths of two lives, perfect for your engagement.
Best Petite Ring: Luna
For a true test of timeless elegance, the Luna ring is an exquisite choice. It is a perfect option if you’re looking for a smaller size center or petite diamond engagement ring.
Best Round: Astra
You can’t go wrong with a classic round shaped lab-grown diamond ring! It’s the pinnacle of elegance and is available with this resplendent 4 carat round cut diamond that sparkles and shines!
Best Nature-Inspired: Leaf
Wow, check out this elegant lab-grown engagement ring inspired by nature! It features a leaf diamond setting, encircled by a halo of delicate round diamonds for complete brilliance.
Best Marquise: Bellatrix
This ring has a a dazzling two-carat marquise-cut diamond (sold separately) and a captivating crown setting exuding regal charm and grace.
Best Oval: Sargus
A classic oval is my favorite design! It’s stunning, unique, and offers brilliant sparkle from the main center stone to the elegant side-stones allover the band.
Benefits of Lab-Grown Diamonds
Now that you know some of the best lab-grown diamonds near you, it’s time to discuss what makes them so great. Anyone can tell you to purchase lab-grown vs. mined, but what are the actual reasons why couples are going wild over this alternative? Here are three major reasons why lab-grown rings are the best option when choosing a diamond.
1. Affordability
Many favor lab-grown jewelry simply due to the affordability factor. Lab-grown diamonds are less expensive than mined diamonds. Since they can be produced in large batches in a short period of time, lab-grown are considerably less expensive than natural diamonds.
2. Ethical and Conflict-Free
One major reason couples turn to an alternative to mined diamonds is simple: they’re ethical, eco-friendly, and conflict-free.
3. Brilliance of Lab Grown vs. Natural Diamonds
One major reason why couples are looking to buy lab-grown diamonds for engagements is that most people cannot tell the difference. No one can tell the difference because they are both diamonds. Lab-grown diamonds are the best option when choosing a diamond ring if you want to purchase a diamond that shines just as bright as a natural one.
To the untrained eye, you will not likely be able to tell the difference between the two. Can a lab-grown diamond pass a diamond tester? Likely, an expert jeweler may be able to tell the difference between these two kinds of diamonds based on special inclusions under high magnification. They have different types of inclusions that occur when the diamond is created. However, as mentioned, most won’t be able to look at your diamond and tell it’s lab-created; it is just as sparkly and brilliant. No one will be able to tell, since both options are true diamonds.
Are Lab-Grown Diamonds Real Diamonds?
Yes. According to diamond expert Ben Garelick, lab diamonds are, in fact, real diamonds. “From breathtaking engagement rings to stunning necklaces and earrings, our complete collection features an array of exquisite designs, expertly crafted to showcase the extraordinary beauty of lab-grown diamonds. Embrace a future-forward choice that celebrates love and supports sustainability with Ben Garelick’s lab-grown diamond collection.”
Are Lab-Grown the Same as Simulation Diamonds?
No. It’s important to note that lab-grown diamonds are NOT the same as simulated diamonds. Simulants to diamond rings — like cubic zirconia and moissanite — have a different chemical makeup and composition when compared to a diamond. So, don’t search for simulated and think you’re getting lab-grown diamond rings: they are made entirely differently.
Lab-Grown diamonds are diamonds, they are just made by humans instead of mother nature. Focus on the 4 C’s when you shop: cut, color, clarity, and carat are just as important on lab-grown diamonds as mined diamonds.
How to Spot Quality Lab-Grown Diamond Rings
The best way to spot quality diamond rings that are lab-grown is to find a retailer that is reputable (read reviews online!), offers a vast collection of lab-grown diamond rings and NOT simulated diamonds, and also has independent GIA certification on your ring when you order it. This is important: you want to have a ring with certification, whether you buy lab-grown or natural diamonds.
As shown on this list, lab-grown diamond rings offer many benefits vs. natural earth-mined diamonds. You are expressing your love and commitment, so you should always choose the best ring that is right for you. Whether that is lab-grown or natural, you’ll find plenty of options to suit your needs.
For more on lab-grown diamonds and how they’re made, read this guide.
► Now that you know more about lab-grown vs. natural diamonds and their benefits, let’s go shopping! You can build your own ring starting with a lab-created diamond here. It’s easy and completely customizable.
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