When shopping for the perfect engagement ring, you’ve likely noticed one thing: there are many different types of stones to choose from. Traditional engagement rings have natural diamonds in them; however, naturally-grown diamonds can be quite expensive. Finding the right shimmery diamond can be difficult. Because of this reason, many couples nowadays will compromise or switch up the center stone with something else, like a ruby, a sapphire, or an emerald.
If you’re pretty keen on diamonds, you don’t have to compromise. There are many engagement rings that feature lab-grown diamonds.
These diamonds are also described as being “synthetic”, and lots of people tend to hesitate because of this reason. While lab-grown diamonds are synthetically-made, they are top of the line and are chemically, physically, and optically the same as diamonds that are mined from the Earth. They’re not “fakes” per se since they have the same properties. They’re exactly the same as naturally-mined diamonds.
Here are several reasons why you should consider them when looking at engagement rings in Denver, CO.
#1. They’re Essentially the Same as Naturally-Mined Diamonds
You can easily tell a difference between cubic zirconia and naturally-mined diamonds if you know what you’re looking for. A simple diamond tester can tell you the difference right off the bat; however, lab-grown diamonds are basically the same as naturally-mined diamonds. Years of research have taught us what it takes for Earth to make a diamond, and we can now recreate this environment in a lab to create a lab-grown one.
From various standpoints, you won’t be able to tell a difference. Not only do lab-grown diamonds in engagement rings look exactly the same as naturally-mined diamonds, but they’re basically made up of the same thing. Most tests won’t be able to tell a difference at all.
On top of this, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) will even certify lab-grown diamonds. If you want to make sure that you are purchasing a certain standard, look for certified lab-grown diamonds.
#2. They’re Quite a Bit Cheaper
Engagement rings are already incredibly expensive. The average couple spends anywhere from several thousand to over $10,000 on their engagement ring. Many people believe that this money could be put to better use. For example, they could use it on a romantic vacation or on home renovations.
One of the main reasons why lab-grown diamonds are so attractive is because they are quite a bit cheaper. You’ll end up saving a fortune if you go with these diamonds rather than naturally-mined ones. In general, lab-grown diamonds cost about 50% less than naturally-mined diamonds for the same specifications. This includes carat size, color, clarity, and cut.
#3. They’re Environmentally-Friendly
A lot of people feel horrified once they learn how big of an impact their naturally-mined diamonds have on the environment. Mining diamonds require huge machinery and lots of explosives. The mining process renders the land unusable and creates a ton of mineral waste. On top of that, lots of carbon and harmful gases, like sulfur oxide, get released into the environment.
Mined diamonds produce about 125 pounds of carbon per carat. That’s quite a lot. On the contrary, if you take a look at lab-grown diamonds, you’ll find that they generate only 6 pounds of carbon per carat. If you care about the environment, you should definitely go with lab-grown alternatives. This hasn’t even taken into account the amount of land that is needed to form natural diamonds, as well as the amount of mineral waste that is produced during the mining process.
One thing is for sure. If you go with lab-grown diamonds, you won’t have to worry about making a negative impact on the environment. While these diamonds do make a slightly negative impact, it’s quite negligible in comparison to all the other alternatives that are out there.
#4. They’re Ethically Sourced
By now, everyone should have watched the movie Blood Diamonds or, at the very least, know about blood diamonds. There are many unfair practices when it comes to the diamond mining industry, from child labor practices to gross human rights violations. The truth of the matter is that some blood might have been shed when mining the diamonds, especially when you consider how unsafe the work environment is and how work-related accidents happen on the job.
These issues have creates a lot of controversy and conflict when it comes to getting natural diamonds for engagement rings. Many people hesitate to contribute to this environment and to egg on the industry, financially. The good news is that you can avoid all of this by looking at lab-grown diamonds, which is why they are becoming a more and more popular option when it comes to engagement rings. Lab-grown diamonds steer clear away from these conflicts and controversies because no blood is shed in the process of growing these diamonds.
Many companies that offer lab-grown diamonds will even show you the work environment. You can rest assured that all employees are treated fairly and paid well for their efforts. It’s definitely a night and day difference.
We Can Help You Find the Perfect Engagement Rings in Denver, CO
A proposal is a magical and special moment, so it’s no surprise that you’ll want every aspect of it to be perfect. Finding the right engagement ring is important to many couples, especially since their partners will be wearing their engagement rings for the rest of their lives. It’s important that they like what’s on their finger!
Matheu’s Fine Watches & Jewelry carries a wide range of different styles and designs. We have designed numerous different types of engagement rings for couples in Denver, CO, and other areas. Our team is well-versed in how to help you find the perfect ring for the occasion, and we’ll walk you through the various features of each design and style, as well as factors like the ring material, the type of stones available, and more.
Give us a call at 303-471-8463 for more information.
