Your Guide to Sustainable Engagement Rings
It’s not every day that you find a product that’s gorgeous, 100% ethical and sustainable.. That’s why I’m so excited to share a bit more about Clean Origin, a lab-grown diamond company that’s changing the diamond industry for the better. Read on to learn exactly what a lab-grown diamond is, how they compare to mined diamonds and why they’re such a hit with millennials! Plus, get a peek of some of their gorgeous pieces!
What is a Lab-Grown Diamond?
We’ll save you the extremely technical side of growing a diamond and give you the simplified answer…because it’s really straightforward. Lab-grown diamonds are diamonds. Chemically, physically and optically, they’re the exact same. The only difference you’ll be able to find between the two is where they came from – one’s from the earth, the other is from a lab. But, where they came from might actually be the deciding factor in why you choose a man-made diamond. This leads us to point number 2! 
Lab-Grown vs Mined Diamonds
As mentioned above, there’s really only one difference between lab-created and mined diamonds…their origin. But, where they came from, and how they get to your ring finger, is a point of contention for some people. Why? Because mined diamonds have a history of negative impacts on our earth and the people who are mining them. You’ve likely heard of ‘Blood Diamonds’ and although your jeweller might tell you that his/her diamonds are ethically sourced, there’s no way you can be 100% certain…unless you buy a lab-grown diamond.
Lab-grown diamonds are also graded the exact same way as mined diamonds. Each diamond that is sent to a certification lab — such as the Gemological Institute of America — is graded by several gemologists. These grades are then combined and analysed to create a final grade.
All diamond grades are dependent upon the 4 c’s of diamonds: cut, clarity, colour and carat. Basically, they judge the diamond on how well it has been cut down from its raw form into a jewel, how flawless and clear it is, and its size. It’s important to do your research about the 4 c’s to get a good idea of what you want out of your diamond. Maybe the carat size is your #1 concern and you can give a little on the colour. No matter what you’re looking for, your jeweller should be able to help you find exactly what you want, within the budget you’ve set.
Why Millennials Are Buying Lab-Grown
Today, more and more people are concerned about where their products are coming from, how they’re made and who’s distributing them. Conscious consumers are on the rise and they want products and services that they know are ethical, environmentally friendly, safe and reliable. That’s why a lab-grown diamond is the perfect purchase for a millennial.
Not only are these diamonds sustainable and ethically sourced, but their shorter supply chain results in their cost being anywhere from 20-30% less than mined diamonds. That means couples can either save some money for their big day, get a ring that’s 20-30% bigger, or improve the quality of the diamond they chose (e.g., go from a very good cut to an ideal cut).
As the generation that ultimately changed — and continues to change – shoppers buying habits, millennials are big proponents of online shopping. Why? It gives them the ability to browse products whenever and wherever they want.
When it comes to engagement rings, online shopping means no longer having to wait for a jeweller to open to get a peek at rings…you can just jump online and browse different collections and styles. Worried about how it will look in person? Don’t be. A 100-day return policy from Clean Origin allows you time to return the ring if it’s not 100% what you, or she, was looking for.
Millennials are changing shopping habits across all channels, forcing companies to look at how they impact our world. Clean Origin is proud to offer an environmentally friendly alternative to mined diamonds that gives couples the style and beauty of a diamond, without all of the negative impacts.
