There is no denying it: for decades, a diamond ring has been a classic symbol of luxury, love and commitment. In recent years, however, the jewelry industry has seen lab-grown diamonds rise in popularity. These precious stones, created in a laboratory, are beautiful, ethical and more accessible, which makes them an attractive option.
Discover Laveran lab-grown diamond engagement rings
What is a lab-grown diamond?
A lab-grown diamond, also called a man-made or laboratory-created diamond, is a gem produced by human technology. Although it is made in a laboratory, a lab-grown diamond shares the same atomic structure and the same physical and chemical properties as its natural counterpart. As a result, it can be difficult, if not impossible, to tell a lab-grown diamond from a natural diamond with the naked eye.
Lab-grown diamonds are made using two main methods: high pressure, high temperature (HPHT) and chemical vapor deposition (CVD). Both processes mimic the natural conditions that lead to the formation of diamonds in the Earth's crust, but in an accelerated way, over a few weeks or months instead of millions of years.
The HPHT technique for making a lab-grown diamond consists of placing a tiny fragment of diamond in a press. There, it is subjected to very high temperature and extreme pressure. Carbon atoms build up over several weeks, growing the lab-grown diamond.
The CVD technique consists of placing a diamond layer in a chamber that creates a low-pressure atmosphere for 3 to 4 weeks. Carbon atoms crystallize to form a diamond that grows in successive layers. This process produces the most brilliant and purest lab-grown diamonds.
In terms of quality, lab-grown diamonds rival natural diamonds.
They can be graded according to the 4Cs (carat, color, cut, clarity) just like natural diamonds, and they can reach levels of purity and clarity higher than those of many stones mined from the earth.
With all these qualities, it is no surprise that many people today prefer lab-grown diamonds to natural ones. What's more, Maison Laveran selects the ethical diamonds that shine in its jewelry with the greatest care.
The advantages of lab-grown diamond rings
Cost
One of the main advantages of lab-grown diamonds is their cost. They are generally more affordable than natural diamonds, which makes them accessible to a wider audience. A lab-grown diamond often costs 70 to 80% less than a comparable natural diamond.
For example, at Laveran, a complete 18k gold solitaire ring with a certified 1-carat lab-grown diamond costs €1,744 in H/VS2 quality and €2,360 in D/VVS1. A natural diamond of the same weight and quality costs several times more on its own.
The ethical aspect
Buying lab-grown diamonds is also an ethical, environmentally conscious choice. Natural diamonds have long been associated with armed conflict and the exploitation of workers, which gave rise to the expression "blood diamonds."
Originating on the African continent, "blood diamonds" or "conflict diamonds" are rough diamonds that have funded several wars waged by rebels against governments.
Lab-grown diamonds, on the other hand, avoid these problems by offering a conflict-free alternative. With lab-grown diamonds, there are no ecological or human impacts from the sometimes controversial mining of precious stones.
Durability and care
Lab-grown diamonds are as durable as natural diamonds, scratch-resistant and easy to care for. You can clean them with dish soap, ammonia or vodka. However, you should use suitable materials to avoid damaging the diamond: a lint-free cloth, a non-abrasive cloth and/or a soft-bristled brush.
A variety of styles and designs
Lab-grown diamonds are available in a variety of styles and designs, and Maison Laveran offers custom jewelry so that you can have a magnificent ring that reflects your personality and style.
By personalizing your lab-grown diamond ring, you can also give a piece that truly expresses your love, adding great sentimental value.
Choosing the perfect lab-grown diamond ring
When choosing a lab-grown diamond ring, it is important to consider the four Cs. The carat (weight) of the diamond has a considerable impact on its price. The higher the carat weight, the larger the lab-grown diamond.
A well-cut lab-grown diamond reflects light better, making it more radiant on the ring.
The color of a lab-grown diamond affects its appearance, and somewhat its price: at Laveran, a 1-carat solitaire goes from €1,744 in H/VS2 quality to €2,360 in D/VVS1. You can choose from 23 color grades ranging from the whitest to the most yellow.
Choose the ring with the lab-grown diamond color that best matches your tastes and preferences.
Clarity is also an essential criterion to consider when choosing the perfect lab-grown diamond ring. It refers to the level of inclusions in the stone.
You can also choose from a variety of ring styles, from traditional designs to modern, one-of-a-kind creations.
How much does a lab-grown diamond ring cost?
Here are the prices of our Montaigne solitaire, 18k gold setting included, according to the weight and quality of the lab-grown diamond. The price is the same for every shape and for platinum.
| Center diamond | H / VS2 | F / VS1 | D / VVS1 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0.30 ct | €880 | €976 | €1,080 |
| 0.50 ct | €1,136 | €1,344 | €1,544 |
| 0.70 ct | €1,400 | €1,568 | €1,720 |
| 1.00 ct | €1,744 | €2,096 | €2,360 |
| 1.50 ct | €2,520 | €3,160 | €3,440 |
| 2.00 ct | €2,960 | €3,632 | €4,304 |
| 3.00 ct | €4,440 | €5,200 | €6,080 |
Price of our Montaigne solitaire in 18k gold (yellow, white or rose), IGI- or GIA-certified lab-grown diamond included. Same price for every diamond shape.
Our guides by shape: round · oval · pear · marquise · cushion · princess · emerald cut.
Other benchmarks: Vendôme ring from €1,280, Odéon halo ring from €1,480, diamond half-eternity band from €536, diamond stud earrings from €632.
See our lab-grown diamond rings in person
In one of our 10 showrooms in France or by video call, an advisor shows you several certified diamonds side by side, within your budget.
Where to buy quality lab-grown diamond rings?
Avoid buying a lab-grown diamond ring from just any reseller, or you risk ending up with a fake. To buy a quality lab-grown diamond ring, look for reputable jewelers who offer certified lab-grown diamonds. Maison Laveran offers a line of sustainable diamonds crafted by experts and jewelers.
Discover our quality lab-grown diamond wedding bands at competitive prices
How can you be sure of a lab-grown diamond's authenticity and quality?
Make sure the lab-grown diamond comes with a certificate from a recognized laboratory, attesting to its quality and authenticity. The three main laboratories issuing such certificates are IGI (International Gemological Institute), HRD (Hoge Raad voor Diamant, the Diamond High Council) and GIA (Gemological Institute of America).
Various details appear on a lab-grown diamond's certificate: the cut shape (heart, round, pear, etc.), the color grade, the clarity grade (VVS2, SI1, etc.), polish, proportions, symmetry, culet size, girdle thickness, table percentage, and more.
The certificate and certification number of the lab-grown diamonds on Maison Laveran rings are laser-inscribed on the stones to guarantee their traceability.
You can also verify the quality of a lab-grown diamond by asking for an expert's opinion. The expert can confirm its authenticity using more advanced techniques.
Current trends in lab-grown diamond rings
Gem-quality lab-grown diamonds entered fine jewelry around the mid-1990s. Today, they adorn rings as well as necklaces, bracelets and earrings. Lab-grown diamonds have also been gaining popularity for several years.
Over the years, lab-grown diamond ring styles have been constantly renewed. Rings with a clean, minimalist design are in high demand, but multi-stone lab-grown diamond rings are also very popular. Finally, stackable rings and colored stones are among today's trends.
Discover our different styles of lab-grown diamond engagement rings
Many celebrities have embraced lab-grown diamonds, increasing their popularity and acceptance. Emma Watson wore a Diamond Foundry set at the 2018 Oscars after-party, which got a lot of attention.
Lady Gaga also embraced lab-grown diamonds while promoting her film "A Star Is Born." She wore Anabela Chan earrings set with lab-grown diamonds.
"Riverdale" actress Camila Mendes also followed the trend, wearing a ring topped with a pink lab-grown diamond of more than 5 carats.
Meghan Markle also brought lab-grown diamonds into the fashion spotlight in 2019 by wearing lovely earrings designed with these more ethical stones.
Discover our lab-grown diamond earrings
Your lab-grown diamond ring, at the right price
Book an appointment: we will show you the diamonds available within your budget, with their IGI or GIA certificate.
In conclusion
Lab-grown diamond rings are an elegant, responsible alternative to natural diamonds. They are more affordable and ethical, yet just as beautiful and durable as natural diamond rings.
What's more, these rings are available in a wide variety of styles and designs. Engagement rings or wedding bands for men and women: everyone will find the perfect piece to symbolize eternal love. More than ever, lab-grown diamonds are a choice worth considering for anyone looking to combine luxury with ethical awareness.
When choosing your ring, be sure to select a quality stone and a design that suits you. Also check the stone's gemological certificate to make sure of its quality and authenticity.
