First-Time Lab-Grown Diamond Buyer's Guide: Things to Know Before You Purchase
Purchasing Diamond jewellery is always an emotional milestone. Whether it is for an anniversary, engagement or to celebrate a personal achievement, it's a purchase that deserves careful consideration.
If you are already exploring Lab Grown Diamonds you would have come across terms such as “IGI”, “CVD”, “14k gold”. While they may sound complicated, it is important to understand a few key concepts so that you can make an informed and confident decision.
Here is everything you need to know before purchasing your first Lab Grown Diamond:
What are Lab Grown Diamonds?
Lab grown diamonds are real diamonds.
It is chemically, physically and optically identical to Natural Diamonds. The only difference is its origin.
A lab-grown diamond is not:
Cubic Zirconia (CZ)
Moissanite
Crystal
Artificial glass
It is a genuine diamond that can be graded and certified just like a mined natural diamond.
Always Ask for Third Party Diamond Certification:
A diamond certificate ensures that you get what you are pay for.
If you are paying for a 1 carat diamond then the certificate should show 1 carat.
Look for reputable certifying Laboratories such as:
IGI
SGL
The certificate will include important details such as:
Certificate Number
Carat weight
Color grade
Clarity grade
Cut grade
Measurements
Diamond identification number (for solitaires)
The 4Cs:
Carat:
The weight of a diamond
Cut:
How well the diamond has been cut - has the highest impact on sparkle and beauty.
Colour
The absence of colour in the diamond.
DEF are considered very good followed by G and H.
Clarity
Checks whether the diamond has any impurities internally (Inclusions) visible as black spots in the diamond.
Or if it has any external blemishes.
Common clarity grades include:
IF (Internally Flawless)
VVS1/VVS2
VS1/VS2
SI1/SI2
For most jewellery, VS and VVS clarities offer an excellent balance of beauty and value.
4. Don't Focus Only on Carat Size
Carat size is not everything. A well cut 1 carat in DEF colour will look and feel a lot better than a 1.5 carat poorly cut H colour diamond.
When comparing diamonds, always evaluate:
Cut quality
Overall proportion
Sparkle and light performance
Certification details
Not just size.
5. Understand the Return and Exchange Policy
Before finalizing your purchase, understand:
Return eligibility
Exchange options
Buy Back options
Buying your first diamond should feel exciting, not overwhelming or intimidating.
Take your time, evaluate your options, ask the right questions and ask a lot of questions. Choose the jewellery who prefers transparency over pressure.
A beautiful diamond is important, but a stress free buying environment is more important.
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