Sometimes what is “natural” is not always what’s best. A perfect example? Diamonds. Natural diamonds are undeniably beautiful, but they’re also incredibly expensive and come with a lot of ethical concerns. Instead of struggling with the moral (and financial) implications of shopping for natural diamonds, a better option is to choose simulated diamonds instead of worrying about the carat count and ethics of natural diamonds. Here’s what makes them superior:
They’re More Affordable
First, foremost and importantly, simulated diamonds are far less expensive. For couples who are just beginning to build a life, have plans to start a family or are looking to buy a house or spend a few years traveling, the savings are significant. Skip the diamond jewelry and opt for a simulated diamond instead.
Ring: The Alexandria
Shop Affordable Engagement RingsThey’re Conflict-Free
You’ve probably heard the term “blood diamonds,” and the story behind the term is just as disturbing as you might imagine. Blood diamonds refer to diamonds that come from mines located in war-torn countries and that have been sold in order to fund further conflict and bloodshed. There are regulations in place to keep these diamonds off the market, but, of course, they still work their way in, leaving lingering concerns for all who buy natural diamonds. When you buy simulated, that concern disappears.
Ring: The Rose
They Give You More Options
When you have a set budget, your ring choices can be fairly limited if you’re going for natural diamonds. Most can only afford a small carat weight or very plain stones in fairly basic settings. These limitations fly out the window when you look at simulated diamonds. Since they’re inexpensive, your money can go a lot further and let you pick out something full of personality and charm — just like the person you’re buying the ring for. Heck, you can even opt for gemstone rings that are just as unique as your significant other!
Simulated diamonds are also just better for everyday wear. Sure, you never want to have to repair or replace your ring if you don’t have to. However, fine jewelry just adds so much more stress than a more affordable version that looks just the same.
Ring: The Bliss
It’s Not About the Diamond
All of the points mentioned are important, but what does it really come down to? Whether you buy a natural diamond or a simulated one, does either actually matter in the end? We place too much emphasis on engagement rings, dictating how much of your salary you should spend and what size the stone should be. Rings might be physical symbols of love, but they’re not as important as the love itself. Plus, you get that same great luster with a simulated diamond, so why stress over a high price tag?
What’s the Difference Between Simulated and Lab-Grown Diamonds?
You might hear the terms simulated and lab-grown diamonds used interchangeably, but they actually mean two different things. While both are man-made diamond imitations that you can get from jewelers, that’s generally where the similarities between lab-created diamonds and synthetic diamonds end.
What is a simulated diamond, then? Well, a simulated diamond differs from mined diamonds in basically every way. Simulated diamonds take metal alloys like nickel and carbon, heat them at incredibly hot temperatures and create something that looks just like a real diamond engagement ring. Unlike real diamonds, you aren’t paying the high price, though. Of course, they have different physical properties (and chemical properties), but the look is the same. You’ve likely heard the term cubic zirconia if you’ve been shopping for engagement rings. Cubic zirconia is one of the most popular simulated diamonds, alongside moissanite and crystal, among others.
Lab-grown diamonds are a more expensive diamond alternative than simulated diamonds. Lab-grown is exactly what it sounds like — they’re diamonds meticulously grown in a laboratory. Lab-grown gets the same look of diamond with incredible precision and no moral quandaries about where the diamond comes from. Lab-grown diamonds are made one of two ways: CVD and HPHT, with CVD being faster and more efficient, while HPHT is slower but will have fewer metallic inclusions (though not none).
The downside of lab diamonds is that, while less expensive than the real thing, it still comes at a higher price tag than simulated diamonds, like those made of cubic zirconia do. Imperfections, like inclusions, are hard to see with the naked eye in lab-grown diamonds, but even lab-grown ones will have imperfections not found in natural mined diamonds.
Ring: The Belle
Shop Affordable Engagement RingsReady to start shopping?
Check out the full collection at Modern Gents! They carry beautiful engagement rings and wedding bands that look like they cost a pretty penny but are extremely affordable! There are also plenty of options for your future husband as well. Despite what society has told us, it's possible to have a gorgeous engagement ring and wedding band without breaking the bank. Why pay a fortune for a wedding ring?
Rings: The Bella band, The Evermore