Tennis necklaces are one of the hottest jewelry items this Christmas. Whether you’re buying for yourself or for a loved one, price, quality, comfort and aesthetics are going to guide your purchasing decisions. If you’re looking for a non-diamond, silver cubic zirconia tennis necklace for a few hundred dollars or less, then this guide may not be for you. However, if you’re looking for a real diamond tennis necklace, then we’ve got you covered!
There’s one big decision you’ll need to make that’s going to greatly affect the price, quality and/or aesthetics of your tennis necklace. Should you opt for 100% naturally mined diamonds or real, lab created diamonds.
What are Lab Grown Diamonds?
Lab grown or lab created diamonds are identical in every way, shape and form, to naturally mined diamonds: from their visual appearance, refraction of light, hardness and all the way down to the molecular structure. They are real diamonds. Period. However, there are still some pros and cons to choosing lab grown diamonds.
Should I Choose a Lab Grown Tennis Necklace?
Pros: Higher Quality
As rough lab created diamonds are in sustainable supply, the cost is significantly lower. This allows for both higher color and clarity, as well as excellent cut diamonds for higher brilliance. This is due to the fact that the waste is less significant as a result of the relevant abundance.
In short, you’ll get higher quality diamonds, for less.
Cons: Lower Value
The flip side of the pros of lab grown diamonds is that the cost and value has been going down as technology and manufacturing has become more efficient. Prices have stabilized at a point where the labor costs to cut and polish each diamond are a factor, yet still, lab grown diamond jewelry isn’t investment material. At the same time, the reduction in value also introduces the psychological element of buying and wearing something rare and of high value.
What About Natural Diamonds?
If you can afford the same top quality diamonds that are available in lab grown diamond tennis necklaces, then by all means, go for it… However, if you’re compromising on the quality of the diamonds, you should know how much to compromise and where to draw the line. Most of the time you’ll see that lab grown diamonds are the cheaper option, and if not, you can expect very low quality diamonds.
If you’re considering whether to choose between options of the same price, eg. high grade lab grown diamonds, in the range of D to G color, VVS to VS clarity, excellent to very good cut OR low grade natural diamonds around J-K color, I1-I3 clarity, good to poor cut, I would definitely choose lab grown diamonds. If your diamonds aren’t sparkling and looking gorgeous, then what’s the point?
On the other hand, if you’re willing to invest a little bit more in natural diamonds, then a quality range of D-H and SI1 to SI2, with excellent to very good cut grades, is the sweet spot I’d recommend. You’ll get visibly beautiful, naturally mined diamonds at the most affordable price possible.
Different Carat Tennis Necklaces
The choice between lab-grown and natural diamonds in a tennis necklace can be influenced by the carat weight of the stones. For those considering a 1, 2, or 3 carat diamond tennis necklace, the price difference between lab-grown and natural diamonds may be less significant, making lab-grown options appealing for their ethical and sustainable qualities. However, as you move up to a 4, 5, or 6 carat tennis necklace, the gap in price between lab-grown and natural diamonds becomes more pronounced. At this point, the decision often hinges on the buyer’s budget, ethical considerations, and the desire for a larger, more dazzling necklace.
Ethics & Sustainability
When choosing between lab-grown and natural diamonds for a tennis necklace, ethical and sustainable considerations loom large in the decision-making process. Lab-grown diamonds are often favored by those who prioritize ethical sourcing and sustainability. These diamonds are created in controlled environments, free from the ethical concerns associated with some natural diamond mining, such as issues related to conflict diamonds.
One of the most compelling ethical arguments for lab-grown diamonds is their potential to alleviate the negative social and environmental impacts of traditional diamond mining. Many consumers are now drawn to these diamonds because they can be guaranteed as conflict-free. By opting for lab-grown diamonds, purchasers are actively supporting an industry that promotes responsible practices and transparency. Additionally, the reduced carbon footprint associated with growing diamonds in a lab rather than mining them from the Earth is a significant factor for those who are environmentally conscious.
On the other hand, proponents of natural diamonds argue that sustainable mining practices have made significant strides in recent years. Some diamond mining companies now adhere to strict ethical standards, engage in community development, and invest in environmental conservation efforts. Natural diamonds sourced from reputable mines can bear certification that attests to their ethical origin.
Ultimately, the choice between lab-grown and natural diamonds for a tennis necklace hinges on personal values and priorities. Those who prioritize sustainability and ethics may find lab-grown diamonds align more closely with their beliefs. Conversely, individuals who appreciate the timeless allure and geological history of natural diamonds may still opt for these stones, ensuring they source them from ethical and responsible suppliers.
In conclusion, the decision between lab-grown and natural diamonds involves a complex interplay of ethical and sustainable considerations, quality and price. While lab-grown diamonds offer a transparent and environmentally friendly alternative, the natural diamond industry has made strides in promoting ethical practices. When selecting diamonds for a tennis necklace, consumers are encouraged to thoroughly research their chosen jeweler, inquire about how they source their diamonds and craft their jewelry, and weigh their values alongside their desire for a stunning and meaningful piece of jewelry.
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Brian formed Living By Examplealongside Cynthia after working for two decades alongside international institutions for humanitarian aids and other efforts worldwide, may it be catastrophes made by men or nature. Brian built Living By Examplewith the hopes of bringing more cultural diversity across the internet.
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