Designing a bespoke lab grown engagement ring is an exciting and personal experience. From the style of the setting to the metal choice, every element of the ring can reflect the unique story of your relationship.
At the heart of all rings, is the diamond itself; the centrepiece that captures the emotion and meaningful commitment behind the proposal.
When it comes to lab grown diamonds, there’s a wide variety to choose from, giving you plenty of options to find the perfect stone for your once-in-a-lifetime ring. Just like natural diamonds; lab grown stones come in many different shapes, sizes, colours, and qualities, and understanding these choices can help you create something truly unforgettable.
If you’re thinking about designing a bespoke lab grown engagement ring, this guide will walk you through what to consider when selecting the diamond itself, from shape and size to colour and clarity.
What Is A Lab Grown Diamond?
Before we get into the specifics, it’s helpful to understand what lab grown diamonds actually are. These are real diamonds, created above ground in controlled environments using methods that replicate the natural diamond-growing process.
The two main methods used are High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD), both resulting in diamonds with the same physical, optical, and chemical properties as mined diamonds.
At Hatton Garden Diamond, our lab grown diamonds are graded to the same international standards as natural diamonds and are accompanied by certification, so you can shop with confidence, knowing that the quality is assured.
The 4Cs
Whether a diamond is grown in a lab, or mined from the earth, the 4Cs: Cut, Colour, Clarity, and Carat, remain the primary factors in assessing its overall appearance and value. Here’s how each one plays a part in your bespoke lab grown engagement ring.
Cut
The cut of a diamond refers to how well it has been shaped and faceted (referring to the flat, polished surface), not the shape itself; we’ll get to that shortly. A well-cut diamond reflects light beautifully, giving it that unmistakable sparkle. Even if a diamond is colourless and flawless, it won’t shine as brightly if the cut is poor.
When designing your own engagement ring, choosing a diamond with a high cut grade ensures the stone will be full of life and brilliance. Excellent and Very Good cut grades are often preferred for maximum sparkle.
Colour
Lab grown diamonds are graded on the same colour scale as mined diamonds; ranging from D (completely colourless) to Z (noticeable yellow or brown tint). The less colour a diamond has, the more valuable it tends to be, but it’s also a matter of preference. Diamonds with colours such as blue, pink or green are graded separately to the central scale.
Some people love the icy white appearance of a D-grade diamond, whilst others might prefer a warmer hue. Lab grown diamonds are also available in ‘fancy’ colours like blue, pink, and yellow, which can make a statement and offer something truly unique.
Clarity
Clarity measures how free a diamond is from internal features (inclusions) or external marks (blemishes). These natural characteristics form as the diamond grows, even in a lab environment.
Most lab grown diamonds fall within the VS (Very Slightly Included) to SI (Slightly Included) range, which means that any inclusions are minimal and usually invisible without magnification. If you want a perfectly clean look, you might consider a diamond with a clarity grade of VVS or higher, but many stones with lower clarity still appear flawless to the naked eye.
Carat
Carat refers to the diamond’s weight, not just its size. A higher carat diamond will generally be larger and more eye-catching, but size isn’t everything! Depending on the ring design, a smaller diamond with excellent cut and clarity may have a more refined look than a heavier stone.
The benefit of choosing a lab grown diamond is that you can often go for a higher carat weight at a more accessible price compared to mined diamonds, without compromising on quality.
Choosing A Shape That Reflects Your Style
Once you’ve considered the 4Cs, the next big decision is shape. This defines the overall appearance of your engagement ring and plays a big role in the final design.
- Cushion: With its soft, rounded corners, the cushion cut combines vintage charm with a modern feel.
- Emerald: Known for its long lines and understated glamour, the emerald cut offers a more subtle sparkle and a timeless look.
- Heart: The ultimate symbol of love, a heart cut ring represents the true meaning behind the occasion.
- Marquise: With its pointed ends and elongated body, this cut maximises carat weight and has a distinctive silhouette.
- Oval: Sleek and elegant, the elongated shape can make the stone appear larger and flatter the finger.
- Pear: Unique and feminine, this teardrop shape blends tradition and individuality.
- Princess: A square cut with sharp corners and plenty of brilliance, this shape is bold and contemporary.
- Round: Known for maximum sparkle and symmetry, this classic shape is the most popular and universally loved.
The shape you choose can influence the type of setting that works best with your design. At Hatton Garden Diamond, you can explore different combinations to see what speaks to you and reflects your personal style.
Exploring Settings And Styles
Once you’ve chosen your diamond, it’s time to think about how it will be displayed. Whether you prefer a minimalist solitaire or a detailed halo, the setting can dramatically change the look of the ring.
- Halo: Surrounds the centre stone with a circle of smaller diamonds, adding extra sparkle and visual impact.
- Solitaire: A timeless classic that puts the focus on the diamond.
- Solitaire Diamond Shoulders: A band with small diamonds set into it on either side of the primary diamond; adding brilliance from every angle.
- Trilogy: Symbolises the past, present, and future, a meaningful and balanced design.
Lab grown diamonds work beautifully in all types of settings, and their affordability often allows for more creativity with your design choices.
Why Choose A Bespoke Lab Grown Engagement Ring?
Opting for a bespoke lab grown engagement ring gives you the chance to create something that’s entirely your own. You’re not limited to what’s available in the display case; you can choose the diamond, the shape, the setting, and every detail that goes into the final piece.
With a wider range of diamonds to choose from and a lower price point than mined stones, lab grown options give you the freedom to dream big. Whether you’re after a minimalist design or something more intricate, the variety of lab grown diamonds available means you don’t have to compromise on quality or aesthetics.
Bespoke Engagement Rings From Hatton Garden Diamond
Choosing a diamond for your bespoke lab grown engagement ring is a journey filled with possibility. From classic cuts to bold shapes, and from icy white stones to colourful gems, there’s a wide world of lab grown diamonds waiting to be explored.
With more variety, flexibility, and value than ever before; designing your own engagement ring with a lab grown diamond lets you create a meaningful symbol of your love; one that reflects your values and your future together.
Speak to the team today at Hatton Garden Diamond and start bringing your vision to life. You can book a consultation by calling 020 7404 9202 or filling out our online contact form.