Finding Lab Diamonds: A Local Guide to Ethical and Affordable Sparkle

Published: Jul 17, 2025

Author:

Zakary Briggs

When it comes to choosing diamond jewelry today, more couples are skipping the mine. Lab-grown diamonds real, certified, and conflict-free are redefining what it means to sparkle with intention.

As a Scottsdale-based custom jeweler at Quantum Qarat, I’ve helped hundreds of clients find lab diamonds that reflect both their values and their aesthetic. Here’s what you need to know before buying locally.

What Exactly Is a Lab-Grown Diamond?

Lab-grown diamonds are created through High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) or Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) two methods that replicate the intense heat and pressure found deep inside the Earth. The result? A real diamond, identical in chemical, optical, and physical properties to a mined one (Wikipedia).

Don’t confuse them with simulants like CZ or moissanite. These are authentic stones, certified by reputable labs like IGI and GIA. Learn more in our guide: What Does “Lab Grown” Actually Mean?

Why Ethical Shoppers Choose Lab Diamonds

Lab diamonds appeal to modern buyers for both practical and ethical reasons. Choosing one means:

✅ No mining or environmental destruction
✅ A lower carbon footprint up to 60% less energy use than traditional mining (Crystalith)
✅ Verified conflict-free origin
✅ Full traceability from lab to showroom

At Quantum Qarat, we offer ethically made jewelry in Phoenix because values should never be an afterthought when designing jewelry.

Are They More Affordable?

Yes and significantly so. Lab diamonds typically cost 20-40% less than mined diamonds of the same grade (Forbes).

This price difference opens up room in your budget to:

Select a larger center stone
Choose premium metals like 18k gold or platinum
Explore custom engraving, hidden halos, or stackable sets
Design a full bridal or anniversary set

Want real numbers? Start with our Cheapest Lab Grown Diamonds guide to explore budget-friendly but authentic stones.

Design Freedom: More Options, More You

Lab-grown diamonds give you total control when it comes to custom design. At our Scottsdale studio, clients choose from popular 2025 styles like:

East-west radiant and oval bands
Bezel-set solitaires for a modern edge
Flush-set eternity bands with platinum finishes
Stackable rings in mixed metals

Need inspiration? Check out our Ultimate Wedding Band Stacking Guide for styling ideas that blend beauty with practicality.

Certified Quality: What to Look For

Always ask for a grading report. At Quantum Qarat, we work exclusively with GIA and IGI-certified lab diamonds. These reports confirm:

Diamond growth method (CVD or HPHT)
Clarity, cut, color, and carat
Any post-growth treatments

Looking to compare labs? Our team can walk you through the difference between IGI vs. GIA grading.

Trust the Jeweler, Not Just the Stone

Buying a lab diamond isn’t just about the gem-it’s about who you buy it from.

Here’s what to look for in a local jeweler:

Transparency in pricing, sourcing, and certification
In-house custom design services, not just reselling
Willingness to educate, not upsell
A track record of client support and repairs

At Quantum Qarat, we guide you through every step: from stone selection to setting design, sizing, and final polish.

Why the Market Is Shifting

Lab diamonds aren’t a trend they’re the new normal.

According to National Jeweler, lab-grown stones now make up 20–50% of all engagement ring sales in the U.S.

Pandora, the largest jewelry brand in the world, now exclusively uses lab diamonds in new collections (Vogue Business) a signal that the market isn’t going back.

Getting Started: What to Do Next

Ready to explore your options? Here's how to begin:

Book a private consultation at our Scottsdale studio
View loose certified lab diamonds in person
Compare cuts, colors, and metals
Start the design process for a truly personal piece

Still deciding on metals? We break down the Right Metals for Wedding Bands in plain language.

Custom Jewelry That Reflects You

At Quantum Qarat, we believe your jewelry should align with your values. Whether you’re shopping for a lab diamond engagement ring, a custom anniversary band, or a modern take on a classic solitaire, our goal is the same: help you create something with meaning.

We’re located near Scottsdale Quarter, offering private appointments and a zero-pressure approach to fine jewelry.

? Book a consultation to start your custom lab diamond journey.