A lab diamond pendant can offer the brilliance and elegance of diamond jewellery, but with the ability to find a piece that is right for any size budget. Choosing the right one takes into account more than the size of the stone however, with a range of factors influencing the final look once a pendant is being worn.
A beautiful diamond can be overshadowed by a poorly chosen chain, and a simple centre stone can stand out and shine when it has a setting that allows plenty of light to pass through.
Potential buyers should take into consideration a widening range of options, from everyday wear to statement making pieces in all sizes and styles of lab created diamonds.
This guide will help explain how to focus on the quality of a diamond, choose the best setting for a pendant, select metals that suit and avoid paying for features that can blend into the background when choosing a lab diamond pendant.
What is a Lab Diamond Pendant?
Lab grown and mined diamonds share a similar crystalline structure that provide the same sparkle as diamond jewellery. The difference between the two is the source of their formation.
A laboratory grown diamond uses technology to recreate a natural diamond forming process.
Lab created diamonds can provide the possibility of a larger or better quality stone at a more accessible price point compared to similar mined diamonds.
How to Choose a Pendant
It is important to consider how often a piece will be worn when choosing a lab diamond pendant. Everyday wear can allow for some simple choices in a design, while a special occasion pendant can embrace more interesting and statement making options.
Factors to consider in a lab diamond pendant are:
- cut
- clarity
- colour
- carat weight
- certification
When choosing a lab made diamonds pendant, focus on the features you will be able to see and enjoy rather than going for an option that has the highest possible grades in all areas. Good quality cuts will enhance sparkle, eye clean centres will showcase a beautiful diamond and the right choice in colour can brighten up any outfit.
The Most Suitable Settings for a Lab Diamond Pendant
Each type of setting can affect the way a pendant looks and feels when worn. Prong or cluster settings will leave more of the side and bottom of a diamond exposed, creating a traditional look. A bezel setting will wrap around a diamond to provide a sleeker appearance and extra protection. Halo settings use smaller diamonds to help draw attention to a centre stone, and solitaire designs centre the eye on a single piece of jewellery.
When choosing a pendant setting for everyday wear, consider how well the bail will hold the pendant and attach to the chain.
Choosing the Metal and Chain for a Pendant
White gold and platinum finishes can create a cooler look, rose gold adds a warm glow and yellow gold can provide an interesting contrast against a diamond. Chain length is also an important consideration as shorter chains will nestle against the collarbone while longer lengths can be worn as layering chains or with low cut necklines. It is also important to consider the thickness of a chain as a very fine chain can look delicate and pretty with a small diamond, but can feel overwhelmed with a larger pendant.
Is a Lab Diamond Pendant Worthwhile?
A lab diamond pendant can be a great choice for a buyer who wants to enjoy the look of diamonds without paying a premium price.
The ideal combination will use a good quality cut and suitable carat weight to provide a pleasing appearance, without paying extra for features that cannot be seen. A balanced piece will also ensure that the pendant is a pleasure to wear as well as look at.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are lab grown diamonds real diamonds?
Yes, lab created diamonds can offer the same sparkle and qualities as mined diamonds. They are formed using different technology than natural diamonds, but have the same general crystalline structure.
What shape is best for a pendant?
The traditional round shape can be perfect for a pendant as it provides maximum sparkle. Oval, pear, emerald and cushion cuts can also work well, and offer a unique look that draws attention to the centre stone.
What length chain should I choose?
Chains vary in length, but 16 to 18 inches is a good average length for a pendant that will be worn close to the collar bone.
Do I need to choose the highest clarity grade?
Eye clean diamonds are a good choice for pendants as smaller imperfections will not be seen once the pendant is worn.
How do I care for a diamond pendant?
Clean the piece with warm soapy water and take care to check the chain and setting for signs of wear.