If you buy lab-created diamonds instead of natural diamonds, you can get better and bigger diamonds at the same price. Contrary to popular belief, lab-grown or manufactured diamonds are not fake. These are genuine diamonds but are created artificially in the lab.
Natural diamonds are more expensive because it takes millions of years to form these gems. Lab-created diamonds are created in a laboratory, so they are cheaper than natural ones. However, there is no compromise on quality.
However, you must know a few things before buying to get the best quality product at an affordable price.
Following are some tips that can help you buy a beautiful lab-grown diamond ring:
1. Know what you want
Before shopping, determine your budget and think about what diamond cuts and styles you like. Different carat weights of the same diamond cuts will have different prices. Know exactly what you are looking for. It will help the sales associates show only your budget and preference options.
2. Know Diamond Grading System
There is 4C’s system used in grading natural diamonds, but lab-grown diamonds have their grading system called Idealscope. Find out the difference between the grading systems. GIA (Gemological Institute of America) or AGS (American Gem Society) are universally accepted grading systems.
3. Get a custom design
There are many diamond cuts nowadays that will help you get more for less. So explore different shapes and their pros and cons before buying one. It would help if you were specific about your choice of color, size, and budget. If you want a custom design, take notes of the rings you like and ask for a similar design. Lab-grown diamond jewelers like Fergus James will help you create a custom design that suits your budget.
4. Buying Process
Know what you are buying before buying it to avoid any decision fatigue. An educated customer is the best customer who knows their product and can negotiate well with the salesperson.
Ask for identification from the salesperson if they are selling you a natural or lab-created diamond? The salesperson should be able to provide you with grading certificates. It is necessary to know where your lab-grown diamond has been cut and polished as it may significantly impact the price.
5. Buy Online
Buying online allows you to compare prices and find the most affordable option. Search for the best price and quality diamonds online. You can also find many websites that offer discounts and affordable prices on lab-created diamonds.
6. Buy From Reputable Dealers
You don’t necessarily need to buy from big brands because they will charge a premium price. However, do not buy from some unknown entity. It is always advisable to go with reputable diamond dealers. Always check the reviews and online reputation when purchasing a diamond ring.
7. Diamond Certification Papers
When buying, don’t forget to ask for diamond certification papers and read them carefully to know more about the quality of your diamond. These papers certify that all stones are created in a laboratory, assuring you a 100 percent guarantee against any imperfection or fakes.
8. Do not buy for investment purposes
Lab-created diamonds are not an excellent investment option as there is no market yet for this product. They are often cheaper than natural diamonds, so don’t buy them thinking that it will be a profitable investment because the price may go down in the future. But they can be a great option if you want to save money on your engagement or wedding ring.
9. Buy colored diamonds
Another significant advantage of lab-grown diamonds is buying colored diamonds at the same price. Remember that natural colored diamonds are rare, and some can be extremely expensive. So, if you want a colored diamond but cannot afford the prices of natural ones, then go for lab-grown ones as they provide you the best opportunity to explore your options.
10. Ask About The Diamond Grading
You must ask for a diamond grading report from the seller. It is a reference sheet that contains all information about your potential or existing purchase. The grading report clearly states all the stone characteristics such as color, carat weight, cut quality, clarity, and so on.
Conclusion:
If you are planning to purchase lab-created diamonds, you must check out all the above tips before making any decision. Use these tips as a buyer’s guide to ensure good value for money and get the best possible deal.