Diamonds are the most traditional gemstones when it comes to engagement ring centerpieces but what you may not have realized is that not all diamonds are natural. Although the natural form still proves incredibly popular for rings and other pieces of jewelry, we are starting to see more lab grown diamonds being used in the industry. So, what is the best option when it comes to engagement rings? Keep reading to find out what option will suit your needs, your style and all importantly your budget.
Natural Diamonds
The first use of natural diamonds being used in engagement rings dates back as far as 1447, however they did not gain popularity amongst the masses until the mid-1900s. With famous campaigns from the likes of Tiffany’s and De Beers, it’s hard to associate engagement rings with any other material but should you choose natural diamonds for your engagement ring? What are their pros and cons? To start with, diamonds are the strongest natural substance known to man so if you are looking for durability you will find it here. The flip side is that of course this durability and prestige doesn’t come without a price tag – diamonds remain one of the most expensive gemstones on the market and demand is unlikely to slow down.
The sparkle and clarity of diamonds is part of what makes us love them so much and this is something that can be hard to replicate and compare to when it comes to lab grown diamonds or other gemstones. However, a major pause for thought for many consumers is the potentially unethical way many diamonds are sourced and traded. The diamond industry has had a long and murky past and unless the supply chain transparency improves, this aspect alone may be enough to put some consumers off.
Lab Grown Diamonds
Although not as big as that for natural, the demand for lab grown diamonds is on the increase. Lab grown diamonds are created in high temperature settings and the result is a diamond that is as real as a naturally grown one as it contains the same composition and is just as strong. The look of lab grown diamonds also stands up well to the real deal as it is almost impossible to tell the difference between the two, making it clear why lab grown is just as good an option for engagement rings.
One of the major draws is the price point; lab grown diamonds can be as much as 30-50% the price of a natural diamond of the same carat so you may be able to afford a much more impressive ring than you expected. Lab grown diamonds have less of the ethical concerns associated with natural diamonds, however, there is some criticism surrounding the energy needed to produce them.
It seems that whether lab grown or natural, diamonds are here to stay when it comes to engagement rings. Lab grown diamond is a budget-friendly option as you don’t have to compromise on the look or durability.
Source: Citypaper