With the popularity of lab grown diamonds, choosing the ideal diamond could seem overwhelming. There are many factors to take into account, such as the range of shapes, sizes, colours, and clarity, but knowing these factors can assist you to pick a diamond that complements your values, budget, and style. This guide will show you how to select the ideal lab grown diamond for engagement rings, fine jewelry, or special gifts while keeping it ethical and affordable.
What Are Lab Grown Diamonds?
Lab grown diamonds, also called lab created diamonds or man-made diamonds, are real diamonds produced in a lab using advanced technology. They are chemically, physically, and optically identical to natural diamonds, but typically cost 30–80% less.
Why choose a lab-grown diamond?
● Affordable luxury
● Ethical and conflict-free
● Environmentally sustainable
● Exceptional clarity and color for the price
● Perfect for customizable shapes and sizes
1. Diamond Shapes: Finding Your Style
The shape of a diamond affects its radiance, style, and how it looks on your finger. Popular shapes for lab grown diamonds include:
● Round – Classic and brilliant, perfect for maximum sparkle
● Princess – Square cut, modern, and elegant
● Cushion – Soft, pillow-like shape with vintage charm
● Oval – Lengthens the finger, elegant and stylish
● Emerald – Rectangular with dramatic details, timeless appeal
● Pear – Tear-shaped, unique and eye-catching
● Marquise – Extends with pointed ends, great for a bold statement
● Asscher – Step-cut, geometric, vintage-inspired
Tips:
● Your main goal is to consider your personal style and the style of the ring setting.
● Larger shapes like oval or marquise may appear bigger than their carat weight.
2. Diamond Sizes: Carat Weight and Visual Impact
The Carat weight measures the size of a diamond, but it’s not the only factor in how a stone appears. For lab grown diamonds, you can often afford larger carat weights than a ring with a natural diamond at the same budget.
Tips for choosing size:
● Balance carat with shape: elongate shapes like oval or pear appear larger than round diamonds of the same carat.
● Consider your finger size: smaller fingers suit smaller stones; larger fingers can carry bigger carats elegantly.
● Keep your budget in mind because lab-grown diamonds allow larger stones for less money.
3. Diamond Colors: Choosing the Perfect Hue
Diamond color ranges from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown). The diamond color that is closer to colorless, the more valuable the diamond is.
Lab grown diamonds often offer higher color grades at lower prices compared to natural diamonds.
Tips for choosing color:
● Colorless (D–F) looks crisp and bright
● Near-colorless (G–J) offers great value without visible tint
● Warm tones (K–M) can give a soft, romantic glow
4. Clarity: Spotting the Difference
Clarity measures inclusions (internal flaws) and blemishes (surface flaws). Most lab grown diamonds are eye-clean, meaning inclusions are not visible without magnification, even at lower price points.
Tips for clarity:
● Aim for VS or VVS clarity for eye-clean quality
● Lab grown diamonds often have better clarity grades than natural diamonds at similar budgets
5. Matching Your Diamond to Your Lifestyle and Values
When choosing a lab grown diamond, consider the following factors:
● Budget: Larger, better-quality diamonds are produced in laboratories for less.
● Ethics: Conflict-free, eco-friendly, and sustainable options
● Style: Shape, size, and setting that suit your personal taste
● Occasion: Engagement ring, anniversary gift, or statement piece
Tips:
- Use online tools or certified jewelers to compare lab grown diamonds
- Look for IGI or GIA certified stones to ensure quality and authenticity when purchasing your ring from your jeweler
Choose the Perfect Lab-Grown Diamond for You
Briefly, with so many shapes, sizes, colors, and clarities, selecting a lab grown diamond can seem daunting. But by understanding the 4Cs characteristics (Cut, Color, Clarity, Carat), and combining that with your style and values, you can definitely pick the perfect stone.
Lab grown diamonds offer:
● Stunning brilliance and sparkle
● Ethical sourcing and sustainability
● Larger, higher-quality stones for your budget
● Endless options for personalization
Whether you want a classic round diamond, a modern princess cut, or a unique pear shape, there’s a lab grown diamond that matches your dream ring that’s beautiful, ethical, and affordable.