A few years ago, the question surrounding lab grown diamonds was usually: ‘Are they real?’ Today, the conversation has changed somewhat, and instead of debating whether a lab grown diamond ring is a genuine diamond, many buyers are now asking something far more practical;
‘Is it actually worth buying a lab grown diamond ring?’
The answer depends on what you value the most, which for some is rarity and geological history, but for others, factors such as design freedom, affordability, ethics and personal style carry a much greater weight.
What’s particularly interesting is how quickly perceptions have evolved and how lab grown diamonds are no longer viewed as a niche alternative. A recent YouGov survey found that almost one in three Britons would consider purchasing a lab grown diamond in the future and amongst higher-income households, more than half said they would be open to the idea. Times really are changing and lab grown diamonds have become a mainstream choice for fine jewellery; embraced by everyone from first-time buyers to celebrities.
The Meaning of Luxury Is Changing With Lab Grown Diamond Ring Options
Celebrity influence has always played a role in jewellery trends, but recently it’s helped to normalise lab grown diamonds in a significant way. Meghan Markle, Emma Watson, Zendaya and Tessa Thompson have all been associated with lab grown diamond jewellery; positioning these stones as part of modern luxury rather than an alternative to it.
Many people also used to worry about choosing the ‘wrong’ carat weight or not spending enough money; both are thankfully outdated expectations now and lab grown diamonds have helped to changed that conversation. Rather than trying to achieve a certain status, our buyers often feel able to choose the ring that they actually want. There’s more room to focus on personal taste instead of compromise, which often makes the entire buying experience far more enjoyable.
The Rise of Bigger Diamonds
One trend that has become impossible to ignore is the growing popularity of larger centre stones. Recent engagement ring research from The Knot suggests that couples aren’t necessarily spending more; they’re spending differently. The average engagement ring spend has fallen, whilst simultaneously, the average centre stone size has increased. Lab grown buyers now average 2 carats compared to mined buyers who average 1.6. The reason is simple; lab grown diamonds allow buyers to choose larger stones without dramatically increasing their budget.
Of course, bigger isn’t always better and many of our clients still prefer understated designs. However, the popularity of larger diamonds highlights an important point: lab grown diamonds have given buyers more options.
Engagement Rings, Wedding Bands and Beyond
Lab grown diamonds are no longer limited to engagement rings and this versatility means that couples can maintain consistency throughout their jewellery collection. For example, someone who chooses a lab grown diamond engagement ring may later select a diamond wedding band or matching eternity ring; creating a cohesive look.
They can also be added to:
Is Resale Value the Most Important Factor?
Even though almost half of all engagement rings now sold include a lab grown diamond, one of the most common criticisms still around is about resale value. This is a valid consideration but it also raises interesting questions about why you’re buying the ring in the first place. Most engagement rings, wedding bands and eternity rings aren’t purchased as financial investments and for many buyers, the emotional value of a ring far outweighs its resale potential.
If a lab grown diamond allows you to choose a design that you truly love and includes a larger stone or a more personalised design; that may in fact be more meaningful than focusing solely on future resale.
It’s also important to note here that the question: ‘is your diamond lab grown?’ is becoming the new ‘How much did your ring cost?’ according to the Washington Post; and if people can’t ask, who will know?
Responsible Sourcing Matters
Another reason why so many buyers feel confident in choosing a lab grown diamond is the level of transparency available. Our clients prefer to know where their jewellery comes from and how it has been sourced. Both mined and lab grown diamonds from Hatton Garden Diamond are selected carefully by our in-house team and are all GIA-certified; giving peace of mind regardless of origin.
We understand that for some, a traditionally-mined diamond is preferable and for others, it will be a lab grown stone due to the technological innovation behind it. Neither choice is right or wrong, it’s about finding the option that feels right for you.
Why Choose Hatton Garden Diamond For A Lab Grown Diamond Ring?
At Hatton Garden Diamond, we’ve been helping customers mark life’s biggest moments since 1982; combining decades of experience with a genuine passion for exceptional jewellery. As a family-run business, we understand that every purchase carries a story and whether you’re buying an engagement ring or celebrating your wedding day, our team is here to help you choose a piece that will be treasured for years to come.
When you choose Hatton Garden Diamond, you’ll benefit from:
- Ready-to-wear and bespoke ring collections
- GIA-certified mined and lab grown diamonds
- Complimentary ring resizing
- Annual valuation updates for insurance purposes
- Complimentary engraving
- Professional annual polishing and inspections as part of our free life time care
Is It Worth Buying A Lab Grown Diamond Ring?
For many people, the answer is yes, and not because lab grown diamonds are replacing mined diamonds but because they offer a new way to approach fine jewellery. They give buyers more flexibility and freedom to choose a ring that reflects what matters most to them.
Ultimately, the value of a diamond ring isn’t determined solely by where it came from, it’s found in the memories attached to it; which is something that no price tag can measure.
To find out more about lab grown diamonds, our friendly team are here to help. You can visit us within the iconic Hatton Garden by booking an appointment or simply complete our contact form with your requirements and we’ll get back to you.