If you’ve heard about lab grown diamonds, you may be wondering, Are lab grown diamonds cheaper? The short answer is yes! But there’s a lot more to the story, and I’m here to walk you through why lab grown diamonds could be your best (and most budget-friendly) option.
Would you like to own a beautiful diamond but don’t want to spend all your money on it? I get it; diamonds are the most expensive thing in the world, but the price can be too much for some people.
Let’s learn more about lab-grown diamonds, compare their prices, and find out how you can get the same sparkle for a lot less!
Before we dive in, if you’re curious about how other alternatives like moissanite compare, check out my deep dive on Moissanite vs Diamonds and see which one could be your perfect fit.
What Are Lab Grown Diamonds? Are They Real?
Lab grown diamonds have become all the rage, but what exactly are they, and are they just as real as their mined counterparts?
- Lab grown diamonds are made in a controlled setting that is similar to how diamonds are formed in the Earth’s crust.
- The way they look, feel, and react to light is exactly the same as diamonds that are found in the ground.
- They’re also a better choice for people who care about the environment because they’re more sustainable and fair.
I couldn’t decide between a real diamond and a lab-grown one when I was shopping for my own engagement ring. I couldn’t even tell the difference when I put them next to each other. And I have to say, my wallet was glad I chose lab grown diamond.
Have you ever thought about getting a diamond made in a lab? What you see and how much it costs may surprise you!
Are Lab Grown Diamonds Cheaper Than Natural Diamonds?
Are lab grown diamonds really cheaper? That is the million-dollar question.
- Diamonds made in a lab usually cost 30 to 80 percent less than diamonds found in nature that are the same size and quality.
- The main reason for this price drop is the difference in how much it costs to mine and make.
- To give you an idea, a lab grown 2-carat diamond might cost around $8,000, but a real diamond of the same size could easily cost $20,000!
I was amazed at the difference in price between a 2 Carat Lab Grown Diamond and a found one. The lab grown choice was a lot cheaper for the same size and sparkle, and I could use the money I saved for other wedding costs.
Are you ready to get a diamond for a lot less money without giving up any sparkle?
Our Top Picks: Are Lab Grown Diamonds Cheaper?
Ready to start shopping? Here are my top picks for lab grown diamonds that offer incredible value and stunning sparkle.
1. ARAIYA FINE JEWELRY 3/4 Carat – 2 Carat Lab Grown Diamond Halo Earrings
The ARAIYA FINE JEWELRY Lab Grown Diamond Halo Earrings will make your jewelry collection look better. These beautiful earrings are made of 14K yellow or white gold and have lab grown diamonds that are D-E in color and VS in clarity.
These round diamonds come in sizes from 3/4 carat to 2 carat and are set in a halo design that adds another layer of shine. They combine classic beauty with modern style.
Crafted by master artists by hand, these earrings offer high quality work and close attention to detail. You could give these earrings as a gift or treat yourself to them. They have a sparkle that you’ll never forget.
3/4 to 2 Carat Lab-Grown Diamond Halo Earrings in 14K yellow or white gold, featuring D-E color and VS clarity diamonds.
Pros:
✅ D-E Color and VS Clarity lab-grown diamonds for stunning brilliance
✅ 14K yellow or white gold settings available, ensuring durability and elegance
✅ Timeless halo design that complements both classic and modern styles
✅ Handcrafted with superior craftsmanship from experienced jewelers
✅ Comes ready for gifting, perfect for any special occasion like weddings, anniversaries, or engagements
Cons:
❌ Limited color and metal options (only available in yellow or white gold)
❌ May not appeal to those looking for natural diamonds
2. ARAIYA FINE JEWELRY 1/2 Carat – 1 Carat Lab Grown Diamond Pendant for Women
The ARAIYA FINE JEWELRY Lab Grown Diamond Pendant Necklace will add a bit of class to your outfit. This piece comes in 14K yellow or white gold and has a lab-grown diamond that is 1/2 to 1 carat, D-E color, and VS clarity.
There is a beautiful circle pattern around the diamond, which makes it look even more beautiful. The 18-inch gold rope chain that comes with this pendant completes the fancy look and makes it the perfect decoration for any event.
That is, if you want to give this pendant to someone special or just treat yourself, it will always look great.
1/2 to 1 Carat Lab Grown Diamond Pendant in 14K yellow or white gold, paired with an 18" gold rope chain, featuring D-E color and VS clarity diamonds.
Pros:
✅ D-E Color and VS Clarity diamonds for excellent brilliance and fire
✅ Available in 14K yellow or white gold, offering flexible style options
✅ Comes with an 18" gold rope chain that enhances the pendant’s elegance
✅ Handcrafted with precision by expert jewelers for the finest quality
✅ Ready for gifting, perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or other special occasions
Cons:
❌ Limited diamond size options (1/2 to 1 carat only)
❌ May not be ideal for those who prefer shorter chain lengths
3. ARAIYA FINE JEWELRY 10K Gold or Silver Diamond Band Ring
The ARAIYA FINE JEWELRY 10K Gold or Silver Diamond Band Ring is a classic piece that can be worn on any event or to show your love.
This ring is made of conflict-free diamonds set in sterling silver or 10K gold and has a total weight of 1/6 carat of round natural diamonds with I-J color and I2-I3 clarity.
Each ring is made using eco friendly methods, so you can be proud to wear it knowing it was made in an honest way.
For an anniversary, a birthday, or just because, this diamond band ring’s basic style makes it both beautiful and comfortable to wear.
10K Gold or Sterling Silver Diamond Band Ring with 1/6 cttw natural diamonds, I-J color, and I2-I3 clarity. Crafted with sustainable processes.
Pros:
✅ 1/6 cttw natural, conflict-free diamonds with I-J color and I2-I3 clarity
✅ Available in 10K gold or sterling silver, offering different metal options
✅ Comfortable classic design, ideal for daily wear or special occasions
✅ Ethically crafted using sustainable processes for eco-conscious buyers
✅ Perfect for gifting on birthdays, anniversaries, or holidays
Cons:
❌ Diamond clarity may not appeal to those seeking higher-grade stones
❌ Limited diamond carat weight (1/6 cttw)
4. ARAIYA FINE JEWELRY Lab Grown Diamond Five-Stone Band Ring
The ARAIYA FINE JEWELRY Lab Grown Diamond Five-Stone Band Ring is made of 14K solid yellow or white gold and is a stunning show of brightness.
The band is beautifully set with five lab-grown diamonds that weigh a total of half a carat. Each diamond is D-E in color and VS in quality, quality is top. They shine really good and look great.
It’s perfect as a wedding or anniversary ring/band, because it combines classic style with modern luxury. It was made by skilled jewelers and shows that they care about using safe materials and methods.
This piece is very useful because it can be worn every day or for special events.
14K Yellow or White Gold Five-Stone Band Ring with lab-grown diamonds (1/2 cttw, D-E Color, VS Clarity). Ideal for anniversaries or weddings.
Pros:
✅ Five lab-grown diamonds with D-E color and VS clarity, providing excellent brilliance
✅ Crafted in 14K solid yellow or white gold, ensuring a high-quality, durable design
✅ Ethically produced diamonds, offering a sustainable and conflict-free option
✅ Timeless design perfect for anniversary or wedding rings
✅ Comes ready for gifting, beautifully packaged for special occasions
Cons:
❌ Limited sizing options (available in size 7.5)
❌ May not appeal to those seeking larger carat weights beyond 1/2 carat
5. ARAIYA FINE JEWELRY 14K White Gold Diamond Tennis Bracelet
This ARAIYA FINE JEWELRY 14K White Gold Diamond Tennis Bracelet is a standard piece of grace. It has 2 carats of round diamonds with I-J color and I2-I3 quality.
This 7 inch tennis bracelet is made of 14K white gold and has a box catch clasp for extra safety and comfort.
Its classic style and sparkling gems make it the perfect piece for any event and give your outfit a touch of class.
This piece can be worn every day or for special occasions. It is stylish and high-end. We really recommend this jewelry as it is one of a kind yet affordable if you compare this to other same Bracelets from other companies.
14K White Gold Tennis Bracelet with 2 cttw round diamonds (I-J Color, I2-I3 Clarity) in a 7-inch length, secured with a box catch clasp.
Pros:
✅ 2 cttw of round diamonds for a radiant and classic look
✅ Crafted in 14K white gold, offering durability and a sleek finish
✅ Timeless tennis bracelet design, ideal for both casual and formal wear
✅ Secured with a box catch clasp for comfort and safety
✅ Packaged elegantly, making it a perfect gift for special occasions
Cons:
❌ Diamonds with I2-I3 clarity may have inclusions visible to the naked eye
❌ May not appeal to those looking for larger diamond carat weights
How Do Lab Grown Diamonds Compare to Natural Diamonds?
I am sure you are thinking, “Do diamonds made in a lab look as good as real ones?” Spoiler alert, they do, and more!
- Natural diamonds and lab grown diamonds are exactly the same in every way.
- They sparkle, last a long time, and are durable, but they don’t cost as much.
- Lab-grown diamonds, on the other hand, are made in a humane way that has little effect on the environment.
Imagine going into a jewelry shop and seeing two diamond rings that are exactly the same. Both shine the same, but one costs 60% less. Which one do you want?
Why Lab Grown Diamonds Are a Smart Choice for Ethical Shoppers
It’s not just about price; lab grown diamonds come with a whole host of ethical benefits.
- Lab grown diamonds eliminate the need for mining, reducing environmental impact.
- They are free from concerns related to conflict diamonds (also known as blood diamonds).
- Many lab grown diamonds are created with renewable energy, making them an eco-friendly choice.
When I learned about the environmental and ethical issues surrounding traditional diamond mining, I knew I had to make a more conscious choice. Choosing lab grown diamonds felt like the right thing to do, for me and the planet.
What matters more to you: price, ethics, or both? If you’re looking for a responsible option, lab grown diamonds are the way to go!
How to Choose the Best Lab Grown Diamond
With so many choices, it can be hard to find the right lab-grown diamond. But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. Lab grown diamonds come in many forms, sizes, and grades, just like real diamonds.
Find the best diamond for your needs and price by knowing the most important things to think about when choosing your stone. We’ll go over the most important things you should look for in a lab-grown diamond!
Consider the 4 Cs: Cut, Clarity, Color, and Carat
The 4 Cs are important for both found and lab-grown diamonds. It’s important to know these things because they have a big effect on the diamond’s beauty, sparkle, and worth.
1. Cut:
The cut of a diamond tells you how well it shows light. A diamond that is cut well will sparkle brightly, but a diamond that is cut badly can look dull, even if it is perfect.
The shine is best with round cuts. Fancy cuts, like emerald or princess, give you a unique shape but might not sparkle as much.
2. Clarity:
Clarity tells you how free a diamond is of flaws or “inclusions” inside it. Although lab grown diamonds generally have fewer flaws than real diamonds, you should still look for a stone with high clarity to make sure it looks clean and beautiful.
3. Color:
Diamonds can have faint bits of color, despite the fact that they typically look white. The color range for lab grown diamonds is the same as for real diamonds, ranging from D (colorless) to Z.
The diamond gets more expensive as you get closer to D. Most people think that diamonds in the G–H group are the best value for money and look the best.
4. Carat:
A diamond’s price is significantly influenced by its carat weight. Lab grown diamonds can be found in a lot of different sizes, and they often cost much less than real diamonds do.
No matter how big or beautiful it is, a lab grown 2 carat diamond might be much cheaper than one that was dug. Want to learn more about how to get the most for your carat? Read my post on 2 Carat Lab Grown Diamonds.
Certification Matters, Choose a Certified Diamond
When you are looking for a lab grown diamonds, make sure the Diamond has a certificate from a respected gemological lab, like the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the International Gemological Institute (IGI).
When you buy a confirmed diamond, you know that you are getting the 4 Cs that you paid for.
- The reason why certification is important is that certified diamonds come with thorough studies that confirm their features. This helps you understand the quality and value of the diamond you’re buying. When comparing diamonds from different sellers, this is very important.
- Where to Look for Certification: A lot of trustworthy online stores sell lab-grown diamonds that have certifications. When getting diamonds from sellers who don’t offer licenses, be careful because they may be cutting cuts.
- My Tips: I made sure to get a verified ring when I got my engagement ring. It made all the difference to know for sure that my stone was real and of good quality.
Choose the Right Shape for Your Style and Personality
The fun part of choosing a diamond is picking out the shape that fits your style and personality. The way a diamond is cut is not what its shape means. The shape of a diamond is its general form or outline.
Even though round or Oval cut diamonds are preferred by many of us like me, there are numerous other kinds that can be used to suit different tastes and styles. I really adore the Emerald cut, believe me or not, I have both Oval and emerald cut for my collection.
This list of the most famous diamond forms should help you make your choice:
| Diamond Shape | Characteristics | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Round Cut | Maximizes brilliance, timeless, and classic; perfect for a traditional, sparkling look. | Those who want a diamond that never goes out of style and delivers maximum sparkle, especially in engagement rings. |
| Princess Cut | Square-shaped with sharp corners, known for its modern and edgy appearance with great sparkle. | Perfect for those who want a modern, bold look with a striking and glamorous edge. |
| Oval Cut | Elongated shape, similar to the round cut but offers a unique look with great brilliance. | Ideal for people who love a classic feel with a twist, plus it makes fingers appear more slender. |
| Cushion Cut | Soft, pillow-like corners with a vintage, romantic feel; good brilliance but softer than round. | Vintage lovers who want an old-world, romantic charm with a soft and subtle sparkle. |
| Emerald Cut | Step-cut design with a “hall of mirrors” effect, highlighting clarity more than sparkle. | For those who want understated sophistication and elegance, prioritizing clarity and a sleek, architectural look over maximum sparkle. Emerald Cut Moissanite is a great alternative. |
As I looked for my own ring, I had the same problem that many people do: round or oval? Both cuts are nice in their own ways, but I picked the Oval Cut because it makes my fingers look longer and is a different take on the classic round shape.
Remember that the style of the diamond you pick should fit your attitude and make you feel good when you wear it.
For instance, round cuts are great if you want something classic and timeless. But princess or cushion cuts might be better if you want something a little more current or edgy. I hope you get my points.
And if you care most about clarity and elegance, the emerald cut gives you a sophisticated, modest look. This cut is always been my favourite.
Which shape does that speak to you?
FAQs: Are Lab Grown Diamonds Cheaper and More?
1. Are lab grown diamonds as good as natural diamonds?
- Yes! Lab grown diamonds are chemically and physically identical to natural diamonds.
2. How much cheaper are lab grown diamonds?
- Lab grown diamonds are typically 30-50% cheaper than natural diamonds.
3. Can you tell the difference between lab grown and natural diamonds?
- No, even trained jewelers need specialized equipment to differentiate them.
4. Do lab grown diamonds hold their value?
- Lab grown diamonds generally have lower resale value compared to natural diamonds.
5. Are lab grown diamonds eco-friendly?
- Yes, they are produced with a significantly smaller environmental footprint than mined diamonds.
Conclusion: Key Takeaways
Lab grown diamonds are not only a cheap choice, but they are also very beautiful. Have moral value, and are good for our environments. You can save money without giving up quality when you choose lab grown diamonds for an engagement ring, earrings, or a special gift.
There are other things you should think about if you’re still not sure. You’re spending money on something that shows off your style and your morals. So why not save a lot of money and feel good about it?
good explanation of this topic