How to Choose the Best Lab Created Diamond for Your Engagement Ring
Selecting the right diamond for the engagement ring is a monumental decision. With the growing popularity of Lab grown diamonds, modern couples are now faced with more options than ever.
Lab grown diamonds are just as stunning and valuable as mined diamonds but come with added benefits like affordability. But how do you choose the best Lab created diamond for your engagement ring?
Let's break it down and make the process a breeze.
What Are Lab Grown Diamonds?
Before diving into how to choose the right one, let's quickly clarify what Lab grown diamonds are. Lab grown diamonds are real diamonds created in a controlled laboratory setting that mimics the natural conditions under which diamonds are formed. They have the same physical and chemical properties as traditional diamonds, making them an identical alternative in terms of sparkle, clarity, and hardness.
The Four Cs Still Apply
When selecting the right diamond, whether Lab grown or mined, you'll want to consider the Four Cs: Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat. These factors determine the value and appearance of the diamond.
1. Cut: The Sparkle Factor
The diamond's cut refers to how well the diamond has been shaped and polished. A properly cut diamond reflects light beautifully, creating that signature sparkle. Whether you prefer a classic round cut or a trendy pear or oval shape, the cut is the most crucial factor in how your diamond will shine. When shopping for a lab diamond ring, always prioritize the quality of the cut for maximum brilliance.
2. Color: From Dazzling White to Unique Hues
Diamond color is graded from D (completely colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown). The closer to D, the more colorless—and typically, the more expensive—the diamond. However, Lab grown diamonds also offer opportunities for unique colors like pink, blue, and yellow. If you're after something truly distinctive, consider a colored Lab grown diamond engagement ring to stand out from the crowd.
3. Clarity: Flawless or Near-Flawless?
Clarity refers to how many internal or external flaws, known as inclusions and blemishes, the diamond has. The fewer the inclusions, the more valuable and flawless the diamond appears. However, most inclusions in Lab grown diamonds are microscopic and won't be noticeable to the naked eye. If you're looking for a diamond with fewer imperfections, aim for a clarity grade of VS1 or higher.
4. Carat: The Size of Your Diamond
Carat refers to the diamond's weight. Therefore, the bigger the carat, the larger the diamond. Lab grown diamonds give you more bang for your buck, often allowing you to choose a larger stone than you might otherwise find difficult with a mined diamond. So, if you've always dreamed of wearing a stunning 2-carat diamond, Lab grown diamonds make that dream much more attainable.
Style: Setting the Stage
Once you've chosen your Lab grown diamond, the next step is picking the perfect setting. Do you want a classic solitaire, a vintage halo, or perhaps a modern tension setting? The setting plays a significant role in highlighting your diamond's beauty, so choose a style that reflects your personality and complements the stone's shape.
Budget-Friendly Brilliance
One of the most appealing aspects of Lab grown diamond engagement rings is their affordability. On average, Lab grown diamonds cost 30-40% less than traditional diamonds, allowing you to invest in a larger or higher-quality stone without blowing your budget. This cost advantage will enable you to splurge on a more intricate ring setting or customize your engagement ring design.
Conclusion: Making Your Dream Ring a Reality
Choosing the best Lab grown engagement ring doesn't have to be overwhelming. By focusing on the Four Cs, ensuring proper certification, and selecting a setting that complements your diamond, you're well on your way to finding the perfect ring. Lab grown diamonds offer a brilliant and affordable option, making them the right choice for couples ready to take the next step in style.
So go ahead—explore the dazzling world of Lab grown diamonds and create an engagement ring that's as unique and special as your love story.
