Everything You Need to Know About Lab Grown Diamonds
When you start shopping for an engagement ring, you quickly realize there is more to diamonds than meets the eye. You might find yourself comparing shapes, sizes, and settings until your head spins like a carousel at the county fair. One choice that is becoming increasingly popular is the lab grown diamond—a beautiful, ethical, and often more affordable option for couples who want style and value, At Pierce Custom Jewelers in Lake Mary, Florida, we know how important it is for you to make a confident choice, and we are here to help you do just that.
What Are Lab Grown Diamonds?
A lab grown diamond is exactly what it sounds like—a diamond grown in a laboratory rather than formed naturally deep beneath the earth’s surface. The magic is in the science. Using a small seed diamond and advanced technology, scientists provide the proper growth environment for the diamond to grow.The result is a diamond with the same chemical, physical, and optical properties as a diamond that came our of the ground.
The difference lies in where the diamond comes from. Natural diamonds are born over millions of years. Lab grown diamonds are created in weeks or months, depending on the method. The sparkle? Just as dazzling. The durability? Identical.
Why Consider a Lab Grown Engagement Ring?
Shopping for an engagement ring is not just about finding something that looks beautiful. It is about choosing a piece that reflects your values and fits your lifestyle. Lab grown engagement rings offer some compelling advantages:
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Sustainable Choice – Because they are created in controlled environments, lab grown diamonds require no mining. This can reduce the environmental impact.
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Value for Your Budget – Lab grown diamonds often cost less than their mined counterparts, which means you can choose a larger stone, a different shape, or a more intricate setting without stretching your budget.
How Are Lab Grown Diamonds Grown?
The two main methods for creating lab grown diamonds are High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD).
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HPHT replicates the high pressure and temperature found deep underground, causing carbon to form into a diamond crystal.
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CVD uses a carbon-rich gas and a carefully controlled chamber to grow diamond crystals.
Both processes result in diamonds with the same hardness and brilliance as mined diamonds.
Choosing the Right Lab Grown Engagement Ring
At Pierce Custom Jewelers, our goal is to guide you through the selection process so that you feel informed and confident. Here are some things to keep in mind:
1. Shape Matters
Round diamonds are the most popular, but fancy shapes like oval, cushion, and pear can make your ring stand out. Every shape reflects light differently, so think about the look you love most.
2. The Four Cs Still Apply
Cut, color, clarity, and carat weight standards are the same, and are as important for lab grown diamonds as they are for mined diamonds. A well-cut diamond will give you the dazzling sparkle that turns heads.
3. Metal Choices
We work primarily in gold and platinum, both known for their beauty and durability. These metals provide strength and elegance to any design.
4. Personalization
Whether you want a timeless solitaire or a more intricate design, our showroom offers settings that bring out the best in your diamond. You can also work with us to create a completely custom design that reflects your style.
The Pierce Custom Jewelers Experience
Choosing a lab grown engagement ring is a significant decision. We make it a joyful one. From the moment you step into our Lake Mary, Florida showroom, you will be greeted by a team that genuinely cares about your story, your preferences, and your peace of mind.
We bring decades of jewelry-making experience, advanced technology, and a genuine passion for craftsmanship. Every lab grown engagement ring we offer is carefully inspected to meet our high standards. You are never just buying a ring—you are beginning a tradition.
Browse our bridal collection to see some of the options waiting for you, or visit Pierce Custom Jewelers online to start your journey.
Caring for Your Lab Grown Diamond
The good news is that caring for a lab grown diamond is just like caring for a mined diamond. Regular cleaning with mild soap and warm water can keep your stone sparkling. Be mindful when wearing your ring during activities that might expose it to possible damage. When in doubt, bring it to us for a professional cleaning and inspection.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Are lab grown diamonds real diamonds?
Yes. They have the same chemical composition and physical structure as mined diamonds.
2. Will my lab grown diamond hold its value?
Like any fine jewelry, market values can change. Many couples choose lab grown diamonds for their beauty, quality, and sustainability rather than resale potential.
3. Can I get a custom lab grown engagement ring at Pierce Custom Jewelers?
Absolutely. We specialize in creating custom designs that fit your taste and budget.
4. Do lab grown diamonds look different from mined diamonds?
Noo. Both have the same durability, fire, and brilliance.
5. Are lab grown diamonds graded?
Yes. The standards are the same and they can be graded by the same gemological laboratories that grade mined diamonds.
