Practical and trendy: Lab-grown diamonds for wedding jewellery

Lab-grown diamonds are gradually making their mark in the Indian wedding jewellery market, offering an alternative to traditional mined diamonds. Known for their affordability, sustainability, and versatility, these diamonds are finding a place in both traditional and contemporary wedding designs. Rashi Arora, who recently tied the knot, says, “We chose lab-grown diamonds for my engagement ring and wedding necklace for their beauty and sustainability. My sparkling, lab-grown diamond ring and maang tikka for the sangeet were stunning and aligned with our values.”

‘Lab-grown diamonds are like test-tube babies’

Disha Shah, founder of a lab-grown jewellery brand, explains, “Lab-grown diamonds are virtually identical to their natural counterparts. Created through advanced technological processes, they share the same molecular structure, making them indistinguishable to the naked eye. Much like test-tube babies, they are crafted in a controlled environment where every detail, down to their very essence, mirrors that of diamonds formed deep within the earth. The DNA, or rather the chemical makeup, is identical, ensuring that no differences can be detected, even by the most trained experts.”

Benefits of lab-grown diamonds:

Cost-effective: At least 30-40% less expensive than mined diamonds.

Same quality: Identical to natural diamonds in every way, including appearance and durability.

Environmentally friendly: No mining impact.

Ethical sourcing: Conflict-free and traceable.

‘There’s still a lack of education about lab-grown diamonds’

Jewellery brand owners feel that lab-grown diamonds are less popular in India due to a strong cultural preference for natural diamonds, which are seen as symbols of luxury, tradition and astrological significance. “Many consumers in India are still unaware of the process and benefits of lab-grown diamonds. There’s a lack of education about their sourcing, environmental benefits, and affordability compared to natural diamonds. The belief that natural diamonds hold more astrological value and are more ‘real’ or valuable is another significant factor why lab-grown diamonds are still not a mainstream choice,” says Sherly Shah from a leading jewellery brand.

Rushin Jhaveri, CMO of a jewellery brand, says, “Lab-grown diamonds offer a significant cost advantage – the larger the size, the greater the savings. They’re becoming more popular for wearable jewellery, statement pieces, dainty necklaces and chic engagement rings.”

Disha Shah, founder and designer of a jewellery brand,adds, “With lab-grown diamonds, customers can get larger stones within the same budget, making them a preferred choice over traditional jewellery. Men are also embracing sustainable, minimalistic designs like rings, cufflinks and bracelets.”

Key Fact:

45% brides are opting for lab-grown diamonds. Engagement rings are the primary use case for lab-grown diamonds.

– As per WedMeGood Annual Wedding Industry Report 2024-2025, which surveyed 3,500 couples and 500 wedding vendors in the country