Lab Grown Diamonds
YES or NO
Lab grown diamonds came to retail jewelry about 10-15 years ago.
However, they were not desirable as they were unable to produce top-quality colors & clarities.
Additionally, lab diamond prices were only 10-20% less than natural diamonds.
Accordingly, it didn’t make sense to purchase them at that time (unless it was a lab grown fancy colored diamond, as they were astronomically less than their natural colored diamond counterparts).
Over the last decade, the technology used to make lab grown diamonds has improved dramatically. And prices have also dropped significantly.
As of about 5 years ago, lab diamonds were around half the price of natural diamonds.
Currently, in some cases, they are merely 10% +/- the price of the equivalent natural diamond.
FAQ
Q: Will lab grown diamond prices continue to drop?
A: Crystal ball excluded, we can only look to history to predict the future. While natural diamonds have maintained their value over the centuries, lab grown diamonds have dropped in value since coming to market.
Our recommendation is to be aware that prices could - and likely will - continue to drop over time, and to make an informed decision on your purchase accordingly.
For some, this is a big turn-off, and they wish to purchase an earth-grown diamond.
For some, they are just fine knowing they are getting a larger diamond for much less than the price of a natural, as
they simply plan to wear and enjoy it for many years to come, without much thought of the future value.
Q: Can you tell the difference between a natural diamond and a lab grown diamond?
A: No, even a graduate gemologist can not tell the difference between under a microscope. Gemologically, the chemical composition of each are identical. Only sophisticated laboratory equipment can differentiate the two.
Q: As a seller of lab grown and natural diamonds, how can you (K.Jons) know if you are selling a natural or a lab grown diamond?
A: We work directly with the cutters of lab grown diamonds to ensure they are laser inscribed and professionally graded by a reputable 3rd party laboratory. The majority of lab grown diamonds are graded by particular laboratories that are “lenient” with the grades. Our lab grown diamonds are graded to GIA standards. Importantly, our US based cutters start with only AA quality rough, ensuring the crystal will not discolor over time (yes this is something that has come to light with cheaper lab grown diamond rough).
Likewise, we work with natural diamond cutters that we have had relationship with for decades. They adhere not only to the Kimberly Process, but go above and beyond the minimum to ensure fair trade and ethical sourcing in regards to human rights.
Q: Why are there cheaper lab grown diamond prices online?
A: We can easily get cheaper lab grown diamonds for you. We choose to only carry AA quality cut diamond rough that is guaranteed to stay the same "white" color for the life of the diamond. We also specialize in cut quality, meaning the diamonds we buy are more expensive because they are cut for face up beauty and light return, not for weight. Our diamonds will not have extra depth or extra bulge. Excess depth and bulge make the diamond a "higher" carat weight, yet blocks light return and causes the diamond to face up smaller than a well-cut diamond of the equivalent carat weight. For example, a poorly cut 2 carat oval shaped diamond could face up 9 x 7mm, making it the same measurements as a 1.50 carat diamond. Whereas a well-cut 2 carat oval should face up 11 x 7.25mm. This may seem like small difference, but in the tiny world of jewelry, it is drastic! In essence, you'd be paying for a "2 carat diamond" but getting the look of a not so sparkly 1.50 carat. I'd rather have a perfectly cut 1.50 carat that sparkles from across the room, than a dull looking 2 carat of the same dimensions.
Q: Do you trade up lab grown diamonds?
A: As you may know, we offer a "trade up" option with our natural diamonds. Due to the ever changing market of lab grown diamonds, we do not offer the trade up option. Some of our customers have put their original lab grown diamond into a pendant, and purchased a larger diamond for their wedding ring.
If you have ANY questions regarding lab grown diamonds, please feel free to ask us! We are here to help!