Lab-grown diamonds are popular for their ethical and environmental benefits and affordability compared to natural diamonds.
But with so many options out there, you might ask yourself, where to buy lab grown diamonds?
This article will walk you through the best places to buy them, with in-depth reviews and a direct comparison.
What Are Lab Grown Diamonds?
Synthetic diamonds, also referred to as lab-grown diamonds, are created in a laboratory with equipment that mimics the natural diamond-forming process.
They are frequently more reasonably priced and come from ethical sources, but they share the same chemical, physical, and visual qualities as real diamonds.
Chemical Vapor Deposition and High-Pressure High-Temperature are the two main processes used to generate diamonds in laboratories. They yield diamonds that are nearly exact replicas of real diamonds.
Where to Buy Lab Grown Diamonds
When looking for where to buy lab grown diamonds, you need to consider retailers that offer high-quality products, good customer service, and fair prices.
Here are the top rated:
1. Brilliant Earth
Brilliant Earth has been committed to ethically sourced diamonds and sustainable practices since 2005.
As a pioneer in the ethical diamond market Brilliant Earth offers a wide range of lab grown diamonds, making it a top choice for conscious consumers.
One of the best things about Brilliant Earth is its selection of lab-grown diamonds. Whether you want a classic round or a unique pear or marquise shape, you’ll find plenty of options.
Brilliant Earth offers excellent customer service. They offer online and in-store consultations, during which knowledgeable gemologists advise and guide you.
While their prices are competitive, what sets Brilliant Earth apart is the extra value of their ethical sourcing, high quality, and great customer service.
Their website also has educational resources to help you understand the benefits and characteristics of lab-grown diamonds.
- Selection: Wide range of lab grown diamonds
- Certified: GIA and IGI
- Price Range: $500 – $15,000+
- Customer Reviews: 4.8/5 stars on Trustpilot
- Special Services: Custom jewelry design, virtual consultations, and lifetime warranty.
2. James Allen
James Allen has changed the online diamond shopping experience since 2006 with their high-definition 360° videos of each diamond. These videos allow you to see every detail of the diamond so you know exactly what you’re buying.
James Allen has a huge selection of thousands of lab-grown diamonds in various shapes, sizes, and qualities.
Each diamond is GIA and IGI certified, so you know you’ll get a high-quality stone. Whether you want a simple solitaire or an elaborate setting, their website is easy to use.
James Allen have great customer service, 24/7 phone, email and live chat. Their team of diamond and jewelry experts will advise and guide you to find the perfect diamond. They also have a lifetime warranty that covers maintenance to keep your jewelry in top condition.
James Allen’s prices are competitive due to being online. They often have promotions and financing options so it’s easier to get the diamond of your dreams.
James Allen has free worldwide shipping and a hassle-free return policy.
- Selection: Wide range of lab grown diamonds
- Certified: GIA and IGI
- Price Range: $1,000 – $20,000+
- Customer Reviews: 4.7/5 stars on Trustpilot
- Special Services: 24/7 customer support, free shipping worldwide, and a lifetime warranty.
3. Blue Nile
Blue Nile founded in 1999 is one of the largest online diamond retailers and has a huge inventory and great customer service. They have a wide range of lab-grown diamonds to suit all tastes and budgets.
Here you get the largest selection, so you have plenty to choose from.
Blue Nile’s customer service is highly rated, with personalized service via phone, email and live chat.
Their team of experts will provide you with detailed information on each diamond and guide you through the buying process. Blue Nile have a lifetime warranty that covers maintenance.
Their prices are great due to their buying power. They often have promotions and financing options, so it’s easier to get the diamond you want. You are also offered with a Price Match Guarantee, so you get the best price.
They have resources on the 4Cs of diamond quality, lab-grown diamonds, and choosing the right stone. This information helps you make an informed decision.
Blue Nile has free shipping and a generous return policy to top it off.
- Selection: Large inventory of lab-grown diamonds
- Certified: GIA and IGI
- Price Range: $800 – $18,000+
- Customer Reviews: 4.6/5 stars on Trustpilot
- Special Services: Price matching, custom engagement ring design, and lifetime warranty.
4. Clean Origin
Clean Origin, founded in 2017, is a pure lab-grown diamond company, making it a leader in the ethical and sustainable diamond industry. Since they only sell lab-grown diamonds, they have a curated selection that meets the highest standards.
Their website has detailed information and high-resolution images so you can make an informed decision. Since they specialise in lab-grown diamonds, each diamond meets their high standards.
Clean Origin’s customer service is top-notch, with personalized consultations with diamond experts via phone, email, and live chat. They also have virtual appointments, so you can shop from home. They will help you find the perfect diamond.
They have free shipping and 100 day return policy so you can shop with confidence. This return policy shows they stand by their customer satisfaction.
Clean Origin also have a lifetime warranty on all their products that covers maintenance and your jewelry will stay in great condition. With their ethical sourcing and high quality diamonds Clean Origin is the trusted choice.
- Selection: Exclusive lab grown diamonds
- Certified: GIA and IGI
- Price Range: $600 – $12,000+
- Customer Reviews: 4.9/5 stars on Trustpilot
- Special Services: Free shipping and returns, 100-day return policy, and lifetime warranty.
5. Vrai
Vrai is owned by Diamond Foundry, they offer sustainable and ethically sourced lab grown diamonds with a zero carbon footprint. Vrai’s commitment to transparency and sustainability has made it a favorite among environmentally conscious consumers.
It offers a wide selection of shapes, sizes, and settings. All diamonds are GIA-certified, ensuring top quality.
The website also provides detailed descriptions and high-resolution images to help you make an informed decision.
Vrai’s big plus is their sustainability. Their diamonds are made with renewable energy so they are carbon neutral.
They also use sustainable packaging and is reducing its environmental footprint. It often offers promotions and financing options to make it more affordable.
- Selection: Wide range of lab-grown diamonds
- Certification: GIA certified
- Price Range: $1,000 – $25,000+
- Customer Reviews: 4.8/5 stars on Trustpilot
- Special Services: Custom design services, eco-friendly packaging, and a lifetime warranty.
6. Ada Diamonds
Ada Diamonds offers luxury and bespoke lab-grown diamond jewelry for high-end clients who want unique and personalized pieces.
Founded on modern luxury, Ada Diamonds offers an exclusive shopping experience unlike any other in the lab-grown diamond market.
The selection at Ada Diamonds is vast, high end custom lab grown diamonds. They have many diamond shapes and settings to choose from for those who want to create a one of a kind piece of jewelry.
Their diamonds are sourced from the best labs in the industry so you can be assured of top quality.
Each diamond is certified by the Gemological Institute of America so you can be sure of authenticity and high standards.
They offer a lifetime warranty on all their jewelry so your investment is covered for maintenance and your piece will always look its best.
With their high end bespoke offerings Ada Diamonds is the go to for luxury and quality in lab grown diamonds.
- Selection: High-end, custom lab-grown diamonds
- Certification: GIA certified
- Price Range: $2,000 – $50,000+
- Customer Reviews: 4.7/5 stars on Trustpilot
- Special Services: Concierge service, personalized consultations, and a lifetime warranty.
7. Diamond Foundry
Diamond Foundry is the only diamond company in the diamond market that offers 100% carbon neutral lab grown diamonds. With a focus on innovation and sustainability Diamond Foundry is known for producing the best diamonds in the world.
Diamond Foundry has a wide selection of diamond shapes, sizes and settings. Their diamonds are made with the latest technology and are GIA certified, so every stone meets high quality standards.
Whether you’re looking for an elegant engagement ring or a statement piece Diamond Foundry has options for all tastes and styles.
They offer custom design services so you can create your own jewelry pieces. Their staff is knowledgeable and will be happy to answer any questions and guide you through the process.
- Selection: Wide selection of lab-grown diamonds
- Certification: GIA certified
- Price Range: $1,500 – $30,000+
- Customer Reviews: 4.6/5 stars on Trustpilot
- Special Services: Custom design, carbon-neutral production, and a lifetime warranty.
8. MiaDonna
MiaDonna is a pioneer in ethically sourced lab-grown diamonds. Their mission goes beyond selling beautiful jewelry.
The company donates a portion of its profits to organizations that help rebuild diamond mining communities, so every purchase is a step towards positive change.
MiaDonna’s pricing is affordable, so high-quality, ethically sourced diamonds are available to everyone. Their unique approach to giving back, great customer service, and products make MiaDonna a standout lab-grown diamond company.
Their range includes classic solitaires to more modern intricate designs. Customers love the high quality diamonds and the detailed information on the website to help you make an informed decision.
Their staff is knowledgeable and will help you with diamond selection or answer any questions you may have about your purchase.
MiaDonna also offers a lifetime warranty on all their jewelry, so your pieces will always look their best.
- Selection: Extensive range of lab-grown diamonds
- Certification: GIA and IGI certified
- Price Range: $800 – $10,000+
- Customer Reviews: 4.7/5 stars on Trustpilot
- Special Services: Eco-friendly packaging, a portion of profits donated to charity, and a lifetime warranty.
9. 1215 Diamonds
1215 Diamonds is a well-established retailer in the lab-grown diamond market and is known for its modern and classic jewelry designs.
They focus on ethically sourced and environmentally friendly diamonds, so they are popular among those who want quality but cheap.
Their necklaces and bracelets stand out with beautiful craftsmanship and lab-grown diamonds.
Customers love 1215 Diamonds for their customer service. They offer custom design services so you can create your own unique pieces.
Their staff is knowledgeable and will help you through the process so the shopping experience is smooth and fun. 1215 Diamonds also offers a lifetime warranty on all their jewelry, so your diamonds will always look their best.
- Selection: A large selection of lab-grown diamonds
- Certification: GIA certified
- Price Range: $700 – $15,000+
- Customer Reviews: 4.8/5 stars on Trustpilot
- Special Services: Ethical sourcing, custom design services, and a lifetime warranty.
10. Ritani
Our last entry, Ritani, is known for having the lowest diamond prices in the market without sacrificing quality.
They are transparent with their pricing and have many customization options so they are the go to for the discerning customer.
Their website is easy to use so you can filter diamonds by shape, size and quality so you can find the perfect diamond for you and your budget.
You can see exactly what you are paying for with no hidden fees or surprises. The transparency extends to their customization options where you can design your own ring and choose from various settings, metals and diamond shapes.
Ritani also has great customer service. They have a hybrid shopping model that combines online convenience with the ability to preview selected diamonds in person at local jewelers.
The “clicks and bricks” approach gives customers an extra layer of confidence as they can see and feel the diamonds before making a final decision.
Free shipping and returns also makes shopping hassle free.
- Selection: A wide variety of lab-grown diamonds
- Certification: GIA and IGI certified
- Price Range: $1,000 – $20,000+
- Customer Reviews: 4.7/5 stars on Trustpilot
- Special Services: In-store previews, free shipping and returns, and a lifetime warranty.
Comparison The Top Places to Purchase Lab-Grown Diamonds
Retailer | Selection | Certification | Price Range | Customer Reviews | Special Services |
Brilliant Earth | Extensive range | GIA, IGI | $500 – $15,000+ | 4.8/5 stars | Custom design, virtual consultations, lifetime warranty |
James Allen | Wide variety | GIA, IGI | $1,000 – $20,000+ | 4.7/5 stars | 24/7 support, free shipping, lifetime warranty |
Blue Nile | Large inventory | GIA, IGI | $800 – $18,000+ | 4.6/5 stars | Price matching, custom rings, lifetime warranty |
Clean Origin | Exclusive focus on lab-grown | GIA, IGI | $600 – $12,000+ | 4.9/5 stars | Free shipping, 100-day returns, lifetime warranty |
Vrai | Wide range | GIA | $1,000 – $25,000+ | 4.8/5 stars | Custom design, eco-friendly packaging, lifetime warranty |
Ada Diamonds | High-end, custom | GIA | $2,000 – $50,000+ | 4.7/5 stars | Concierge service, personalized consultations, lifetime warranty |
Diamond Foundry | Wide selection | GIA | $1,500 – $30,000+ | 4.6/5 stars | Custom design, carbon-neutral, lifetime warranty |
MiaDonna | Extensive range | GIA, IGI | $800 – $10,000+ | 4.7/5 stars | Eco-friendly packaging, charity donations, lifetime warranty |
1215 Diamonds | Large selection | GIA | $700 – $15,000+ | 4.8/5 stars | Ethical sourcing, custom design, lifetime warranty |
Ritani | Wide variety | GIA, IGI | $1,000 – $20,000+ | 4.7/5 stars | In-store previews, free shipping and returns, lifetime warranty |
How We Made The List
We did a lot of research and a lot of filtering to create this list of the best places to buy lab grown diamonds.
Here’s how we did it:
Market Research
We started by doing market research to find the top lab-grown diamond retailers. This included looking at industry reports, market analysis, and consumer reviews. We focus on retailers with good reps, good products, and good customer service.
Customer Reviews and Ratings
We looked at thousands of customer reviews and ratings from multiple platforms, including Trustpilot, Google Reviews, and jewelry forums. This helped us get a real-world view of what consumers are saying about each retailer. We prioritized companies with high ratings and positive feedback.
Certification and Quality
The quality of diamonds is key. We made sure all listed retailers have diamonds that are certified by reputable bodies such as the Gemological Institute of America as well as the International Gemological Institute.
Certification from these bodies means the diamonds are authentic and of high quality.
Choice and Variety
We looked at the range of diamonds each retailer offers, as well as the shapes, sizes, and settings. A wide range means customers can find diamonds that match their specific needs and wants.
Pricing and Transparency
We compared the pricing of each retailer, looking for competitive prices without sacrificing quality. Transparency in pricing was also important; we looked for retailers who clearly outlined their costs and fees so there were no hidden charges for the customer.
Customer Service
Customer service is key when buying big-ticket items like diamonds. We looked at each retailer’s customer service policies, including return policies, warranties, and personal support. Companies with good customer service teams were ranked higher.
Ethical Practices
With ethical consumerism on the rise, we examined each retailer’s ethical practices. This included their commitment to sustainable sourcing, environmental impact, and social causes. We prefer retailers who prioritize ethical practices and offer conflict-free diamonds.
Special Offers and Services
We also looked at the unique features and services each retailer offers, such as custom design options, in-store previews, lifetime warranties and extra perks.
Why Buy Lab Grown Diamonds?
Price
Lab-grown diamonds are 30-40% cheaper than natural diamonds of similar quality. So you get more for your money. The savings can be huge, so you can get a bigger or higher quality diamond in your budget. (source: Statista)
Ethical
Lab-grown diamonds are free from the ethical issues of diamond mining, human rights abuses, and environmental damage.
Choosing lab-grown diamonds supports sustainable and responsible practices. These diamonds are produced without the social and ecological impact of traditional diamond mining, so they are an ethical choice for conscious consumers.
Quality and Choice
Lab grown diamonds are the same quality as natural diamonds, with a wide range of sizes, shapes and colours. They are graded to the same standards so high quality and consistency is guaranteed.
Technology has advanced so lab grown diamonds can be produced with fewer inclusions and more clarity, often better than natural diamonds.
How to Buy Lab-Grown Diamonds (Tips)
Know the 4Cs
Before you buy a lab grown diamond, get to know the 4Cs: cut, color, clarity and carat weight. These are the factors that determine the look and value of the diamond. Knowing these will help you make an informed decision and choose a diamond that matches your needs and budget.
Set a Budget
Decide how much you want to spend before you start shopping. Setting a budget will help you narrow down your options and stay within your means. Lab grown diamonds offer great value so you can find a beautiful diamond in your budget.
Choose a Trustworthy Retailer
Choose a retailer with a good reputation for selling lab-grown diamonds. Look for certifications from recognized gemological institutes like GIA or IGI. Check customer reviews and ratings to see if the retailer has a history of happy customers.
Compare Prices
Compare prices from different retailers to get the best deal. Online stores often have lower prices due to lower overheads. But consider the added value of in-store purchases where you can see the diamond in person and get personal service.
View the Diamond
Inspect the diamond in person or through high res images and videos provided by online retailers. Look for inclusions and blemishes and check the cut. High res images and videos will give you a close up view of the diamond’s features.
Check the Return Policy
Before you buy, check the retailer’s return policy. Make sure you can return the diamond if it’s not what you expected. A flexible return policy gives you peace of mind and lets you shop with confidence.
What’s the Warranty
Check if the retailer offers a warranty on the diamond. A good warranty covers defects and repairs, so you’re protected from your investment. It’s an added bonus that the retailer stands behind their product.
How are Lab Grown Diamonds Graded?
Lab-grown diamonds are graded using the same criteria as natural diamonds: the 4Cs – cut, color, clarity, and carat weight.
Here’s a quick guide:
Cut
The cut of a diamond is how well it’s been cut and faceted to maximize its brilliance. A well cut diamond will sparkle beautifully. Cut is graded from Excellent to Poor, Excellent being the highest.
Color
Diamond color is graded from D (colorless) going to Z (light yellow or brown). Colorless diamonds are the most valuable because they allow more light to pass through so more brilliance and fire. Lab grown diamonds can be produced in many colors so more options for you.
Clarity
Clarity measures external and internal imperfections, known as inclusions and blemishes. Diamonds with fewer inclusions are more valuable. Clarity is graded from Flawless (no inclusions visible under 10x magnification) to Included (inclusions visible to the naked eye).
Carat
Carat weight is the size of the diamond. Larger diamonds are rarer and more valuable. 1 carat is 200 milligrams. Lab-grown diamonds are available in many-carat weights, so you can find the one that suits you.
Conclusion
Finding the right place to buy lab-grown diamonds can significantly impact your purchasing experience.
This guide has highlighted some of the best retailers where to buy lab-grown diamonds so you can get high-quality, ethically sourced diamonds at a fair price.
When considering where to buy lab-grown diamonds, prioritize reputable retailers like Brilliant Earth, James Allen, Blue Nile, and Clean Origin.
They offer excellent customer service, a broad selection, and competitive pricing, making your diamond purchase both enjoyable and worthwhile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are lab-grown diamonds worth buying?
Yes, lab-grown diamonds are worth buying. They offer the same beauty and durability as natural diamonds at a lower cost and are ethically and environmentally friendly. Choosing lab-grown diamonds supports sustainable practices and provides excellent value.
What is the true cost of a lab-grown diamond?
The cost of a lab-grown diamond varies depending on its size, quality, and retailer. Generally, they are 30-40% cheaper than natural diamonds. For example, a 1-carat lab-grown diamond can range from $1,000 to $3,000, offering significant savings compared to a natural diamond of the same quality.
Which country buys the most lab-grown diamonds?
The United States is currently the largest market for lab-grown diamonds, with increasing demand due to consumer awareness of ethical and environmental issues. The popularity of lab-grown diamonds is also growing in Europe and Asia as more consumers seek sustainable and conflict-free alternatives.
Do celebrities buy lab-grown diamonds?
Yes, many celebrities are opting for lab-grown diamonds due to their ethical appeal and environmental benefits. Stars like Meghan Markle and Emma Watson have been seen wearing lab-grown diamond jewelry, helping to raise awareness and acceptance of these sustainable gems.