For those wanting a diamond – or the look and feel of a diamond – at a lower price point, there are more options than you might think.
By: Emily Goldman
Before showing some swoon-worthy stones, it’s important to note the differences between lab grown diamonds, mined diamonds, and diamond look-alikes.
Mined diamonds come from the earth, and are the solid forms of the element carbon, with crystals naturally developing into a diamond cubic structure. Meanwhile, lab grown diamonds are made up of the same element, but instead of being mined, they are grown.
“Mined diamonds and lab grown diamonds are both diamonds,” says Brittany Bozmoski, CMO of 12fifteen and Diamond Nexus. “Every individual diamond varies in quality – graded by 4C's criteria – but all other comparative properties are apples to apples. Lab grown diamonds are the metaphorical equivalent of greenhouse grown flowers.”
From lab grown scientific feats, to diamond alternatives, find gorgeous ethically-sourced, non-mined diamonds below.
Lab Grown Diamonds
Lab grown diamonds, often referred to as ethically-sourced diamonds, come from highly controlled laboratory environments, with the help of scientists, carbon, and advanced technological processes that mimic the same conditions under which earth-mined diamonds are created.
Amore Vintage Engagement Ring, MiaDonna
An old-world inspired design gets a new-world spin with subtle mixed metals.
Featuring lab grown diamonds, the brand can also create custom designs for couples wanting something one-of-a-kind.
Fleur Diamond Ring, Brilliant Earth
With an unique halo and rose gold setting, this ring is a modern take on a vintage shape.
Classic Six Prong Solitaire, Adia Diamonds
A classic round cut diamond in a six prong setting will always be elegant.
Diamond Alternatives
Moissanite, a diamond-alternative, has similar qualities to a diamond, but the differences between the stones remain distinguishable to the trained, naked eye. A rare mineral found in nature, scientists often recreate the stone in a lab. Other diamond alternatives include Morganite, with its distinguishable pink hue, and its considerably cheaper counterpart, Cubic Zirconia.
Elongated Oval Halo Engagement Ring Colorless Moissanite, Charles & Colvard
Often difficult to distinguish between this stone and a diamond, the below Moissanite is just as impactful and beautiful as its more pricey counterpart.
Penelope, Pear morganite diamond halo engagement ring in rose gold, Ken & Dana
With a subtle blush hue, this morganite stone is everything!
Three Stone Accented Round Cut Engagement Ring, Diamond Nexus
Diamond Nexus uses a patented diamond alternative, that is neither moissanite nor cubic zirconia. This stunner recreates that Meghan Markle sparkle.
Birdy, Moissanite Engagement Ring, Olive Ave
Amp up the bling with a flower-inspired halo flanking a marquis shaped moissanite stone.
Moissanite Cushion Cut White Gold Engagement Ring, Lauren B
Up your forever style with a large, cushion cut gem.
For more engagement ring inspiration, visit Gold Engagement Rings We're Lusting Over.
