The Lab-grown diamond revolution.
The Lab-grown diamond revolution.
As an industry, we are experiencing a revolution and I don’t say this lightly. Approximately 10 years ago I heard a rumor about the increasing quality achieved by producers of lab-grown diamonds. Previously, these stones were very low-grade and only used for industrial purposes.
Around five years ago, I was asked to source a lab–grown diamond for a customer. Initially, as a traditional fine jeweller who worked with natural diamonds and gemstones, I was very skeptical. I didn’t believe this product would be something I wanted to associate with. However, after a little research, I found an extremely good source for lab-grown diamonds that were not only of very impressive quality, but they were also highly affordable.
Now, five years on, we are seeing huge growth in the lab-grown diamond industry. I would estimate that 50% of the diamonds I am asked to source for customers are lab-grown.
Since working with that very first lab-grown stone I have become a convert; these diamonds offer consumers another extremely viable option when searching for their perfect stone. Lab-grown diamonds offer excellent value for money. When cut well these diamonds are extremely bright with incredible scintillation, sparkle, and fire - just like well-cut natural diamonds.
No mining occurs during their production. Although the process does use energy, we are seeing factories using increasingly sustainable and renewable energy sources such as solar.
Of course, lab-grown diamonds are not everyone’s cup of tea and some customers will always prefer a natural diamond (or a colored gem for that matter). Ultimately, it is for you the customer to decide.
My job is to present you with the best quality coloured stone or diamond, be it lab-grown or natural, in order for you to make the right decision to suit whatever budget you have.
If you feel a little unsure about lab-grown diamonds and whether they'd be an option for you, get in touch and I'll happily talk you through all of the options available.
"Large, high-quality, perfectly cut diamonds have never been so attainable"
Greg Holland