Lab-Grown Diamond–The Shape of Tomorrow’s Jewelry

Lab-grown diamond: such a mysterious description embodied in the association of one of the most famous gemstones on earth with the technical know-how that scientists developed through years of research. Mostly known for being one of the precious gifts to offer for a significant event such as engagement and wedding, diamonds continued to spread its admiration for the dazzling effect which convinced more than one couple. Since the luxury industry is migrating towards a more conscious way of manufacturing products and consumers are thriving towards ethical consumption and bold products, lab-grown diamond is gaining in popularity against the bleak stories of the mined ones. Keeping this epigram in spotlight, this article provides the complete view of how the industry is going to adapt to this new revolution. Lab-grown diamonds are diamonds that have been processed in laboratories thanks to almost 70 years of development. To test the idea that this new alternative is a legitimate opportunity to answer the need of the current changing jewelry market, this research tried to observe the real potential of this man-made gemstone through a deep understanding of its hallmark, perception of the market and concrete sustainable solutions available. As a result, it is observed that a certain interest in finding a new alternative with the same attributes to reassure all parties. What defines a gemstone is simply the association between its chemical composition and crystal structure. To this fact it created two sided views for which there is no right or wrong position but simply a question of brand positioning. New generations of consumers increasingly recognized the importance of ethical consumption of a luxury product. Bitter lines in the news, child labor and conflicts such as “Blood diamonds” created an uncertain environment in which the new generation Gen Z, nowadays does not feel comfortable to buy unconsciously. Again, pros and cons are rising over laboratory grown diamonds concerning its real repercussion on the environment. Facts are here to prove that this alternative is a relevant approach to the current luxury industry: providing high clarity and colorless gemstone, controlled production quantities, improved traceability issues, changes in price range. Luxury brands should keep educating its audience by disclosing clearly the differences between mined and lab-grown diamonds and use this increasing awareness to promote new responsible jewelry collection that relate to today’s society needs.