Meet the High Street Retailer Offering Lab-Grown Diamonds
More sustainable, conflict-free and great value, meet GENTLE DIAMONDS by CARAT* London. These lab-grown beauties are turning the diamond and gemstone industry on its head and it’s not hard to see why.
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For years mined diamonds and gemstones have dominated the wedding jewellery industry but as ethical concerns have grown, so too has the need for a sustainable, conflict-free alternative.
Enter lab-grown diamonds, the gems that are chemically, physically and optically identical to mined diamonds minus the planetary and humanitarian cost often associated with natural stones. Both diamond varieties are created using extreme pressure and heat, the only difference is that one is made inside a machine and one below the earth’s surface.
One company championing these scientific sparklers is CARAT* London with their stunning collection of GENTLE DIAMONDS. We found out the facts about their sparkling range – including how you can get more bling for your buck – and selected the most lust-worthy pieces in their collection.
Like traditional diamond retailers, CARAT* London measure a diamond’s value using the traditional four Cs: Cut, Colour, Clarity and Carat, plus an additional C that they believe to be just as important: Conscience.
Each diamond sold by CARAT* London is conflict-free and independently certified with its cut, clarity and colour assessed, just like mined diamonds. As the GENTLE DIAMONDS are created using the same chemical process as natural diamonds they come with their own unique flaws and inclusions. This makes every stone totally one of a kind and impossible to differentiate from mined diamonds with the naked eye, even if you’re a professional jeweller.
Diamonds aren’t the only stones that can be lab-created, in fact CARAT* London boast a range of lab-grown gemstones including rubies, sapphires and emeralds made of the same molecular properties as their mined counterparts.
Lab-grown diamonds and gemstones are also reported to be anywhere between 30 and 60% cheaper than mined stones thanks to recent advances in technology that make lab diamonds less labour intensive to create. This means that you can buy a clearer diamond with fewer flaws and a superior cut for less when you choose a GENTLE DIAMOND.
Feeling tempted? We don’t blame you! Check out our pick of the best CARAT* London pieces featuring GENTLE DIAMONDS.
1. Aria Ring 18K Gold
Ever since Meghan Markle stepped out with her three-stone rock in 2017, we’ve been obsessed with trilogy engagement ring settings like this one from CARAT* London. Available in 18k yellow, white and rose gold as well as platinum, you can make this ring totally unique with the addition of your hand-picked GENTLE DIAMONDS.
2. Bianca Ring 18K Gold
Did you know elongated stones like pear shapes can appear larger than other diamond shapes? Add to that a halo of additional diamonds as featured on the Bianca ring and you’ve got yourself a showstopping sparkler. Whether you choose this beauty in 18k white, rose or yellow gold or platinum, you’ll attract plenty of admirers.
3. Zina Ring 9K White Gold
The contemporary Zina design gives the illusion of a double ring duo in one stylish piece. Tiny diamonds give this dainty piece subtle sparkle that will look just as stunning whether worn in the office, out to dinner or on your wedding day.
4. Cordelia Ring 18K Gold
Simple and elegant, Cordelia is a classic solitaire ring with added sparkle placed across the delicate band. Choose from rose, white or yellow gold or platinum and then select your own GENTLE DIAMOND to take centre stage for a ring that is uniquely yours.
5. Cosette Ear Jacket 9K Gold
Whether you’re in search of modern and quirky jewellery to complete your look or the perfect gift for your maid of honour, look no further than Cosette. Available in white or yellow gold, as a single piece or a pair, the delicate diamonds and architectural design will draw plenty of admirers.
6. Dixie Ring 9K Gold
Stacking rings are everywhere right now thanks to their laidback yet glamorous layered look. Take a bridesmaid’s stack up a notch and gift her the delicate yet dazzling Dixie ring. Featuring a marquise cut stone in a modern bezel setting, this will quickly become her everyday style staple.
7. Fleur Necklace 9K Gold
The Fleur necklace is a subtle yet elegant piece that would look simply stunning with anything from sweetheart to strapless gowns. We think the classic design would also make the perfect gift for a mother or mother-in-law.
8. Petunia Studs 9K Gold
Featuring pear, marquise and round shaped Gentle Diamonds, the Petunia studs are reminiscent of delicate leaves and petals – perfect for wedding day wear. Gift them to an important member of your bridal party or rock them yourself for a modern yet elegant bridal look.
9. Phoebe Bracelet 18K White Gold
We’re head over heels for this modern twist on the classic tennis bracelet. Adorned with GENTLE DIAMONDS and featuring an adjustable strap with additional drop stones, this stunning piece would look as at home on the wrist of the bride as it would a bridesmaid or maid of honour.
10. Cory Studs 18K White Gold
High-neck and lace gowns often require simple stud earrings to complete the look and we think the Cory studs would be a great choice. Featuring a dazzling round centre GENTLE DIAMOND with surrounding halo, these beauties will give just enough sparkle to your ensemble.
11. Cory Necklace 18K Gold
The Cory necklace is a beautifully simple piece that makes the perfect gift. With a delicate chain and a round GENTLE DIAMOND at its centre with a halo for additional sparkle, this dazzling design can be worn day or night.
Explore the entire collection at CARAT* London.
