What To Look For When Shopping For A Lab Diamond

Diamonds have always symbolized luxury, elegance, and everlasting love. However, the traditional notion of diamonds exclusively coming from deep within the Earth is now challenged by the rise of lab-grown diamonds.

Lab-grown diamonds are responsibly obtained, more eco-conscious, and frequently come at a lower cost compared to naturally mined diamonds. If you're contemplating the purchase of a lab-created diamond, it's vital to take into account a range of essential elements to guarantee a well-informed and gratifying purchase. To understand the most important factors in search of a lab diamond, consider the following guidelines.

Certification is Key

When shopping for a lab diamond, the first thing you should look for is certification. Just like earth mined diamonds, lab-grown diamonds are graded by gemological laboratories. The most well-known and respected certification agencies are the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and the International Gemological Institute (IGI).

These certifications provide detailed information about the diamond's 4 Cs: Carat weight, Cut, Color, and Clarity. Ask for a certificate when buying a lab-grown diamond, as it ensures you're getting what you paid for.

Understand the 4 Cs

Speaking of the 4 Cs, it's crucial to understand how they affect the quality and value of a lab-grown diamond. Their effects are identical to that of an earth mined diamond:

- Carat Weight: Carat refers to the size of the diamond – all gemstones are measured based on their weight. Bigger isn't always better; other factors like cut and clarity influence a diamond's overall appearance.
- Cut: The cut determines the diamond's sparkle and brilliance. A measure of the diamond's symmetry and final polish, a well-cut diamond will reflect light in a way that makes it shine.
- Colour: Lab diamonds come in various hues. The hightest rating is D, noting a stone that is completely colourless all the way to Z, where the stone would have a noticeable yellow colour. Most people prefer diamonds in the colourless to near-colourless range (D-F and G-J) for a beautiful, white appearance.
- Clarity: Clarity indicates the presence of imperfections, or "inclusions," within the diamond. Fewer inclusions lead to a more valuable diamond.

Choose the Right Diamond Shape

The shape of a diamond is a matter of personal preference. Explore the different lab diamond shapes and sizes a reputable custom jeweller offers. You will find that lab diamonds are available in various shapes, such as round, princess, cushion, and emerald. Think about your partner's or your own style when choosing the shape. Each shape has its unique appeal, and selecting one that you find visually pleasing is important.

Setting and Metal Choice

The setting and metal you choose for your lab-grown diamond can significantly impact its overall appearance and durability. White gold and platinum are popular choices for settings as they complement the brilliance of a diamond. However, you can also choose rose gold or yellow gold for a warmer look. Make sure the setting securely holds the diamond in place, protecting it from daily wear and tear.

Ethical and Environmental Considerations

One of the significant advantages of lab-grown diamonds is that they can be ethically sourced and have a lower environmental footprint than mined diamonds. When shopping for a lab diamond, inquire about the manufacturer's ethical and environmental practices. Ensure the company adheres to ethical labour standards, conflict-free sourcing, and sustainable production methods.

Shopping for a lab-grown diamond can be an exciting and responsible choice. You can make a well-informed decision by paying attention to certification, understanding the 4 Cs, choosing the right shape, considering the setting and metal, and prioritizing ethical and environmental factors.