How to Buy Lab Grown Diamond Rings Online: A First-Time Buyer's Guide

Buying a diamond ring online can feel confusing, especially if it's your first time. Since you can't see or try the ring in person, it's normal to have questions about quality, price, and whether you're making the right choice.
Many people also wonder if lab grown diamonds are real and why they cost less than natural diamonds. The answer is simple they are real diamonds, certified by trusted gemological laboratories, and are available at a fraction of prices than natural diamonds.

Whether you're buying an engagement ring, a gift, or a solitaire ring, knowing a few basic things can help you shop with confidence.
This guide explains what to check before buying a lab grown diamond ring online, including certification, the 4Cs, pricing, ring size, and how to choose a trusted jeweller.

By the end, you'll know exactly what to look for before placing your order.

What Are Lab Grown Diamond Rings?

Lab grown diamond rings are rings set with diamonds that are created in a laboratory instead of being mined from the earth.

Scientists recreate the same conditions in which natural diamonds are formed. Instead of taking millions of years underground, this process takes a few weeks in a controlled environment.
The diamond produced is the same as a natural diamond in every important way. It has the same chemical composition, crystal structure, hardness, and sparkle. The only difference is where it was made.

Many people confuse lab grown diamonds with cubic zirconia or moissanite. These are different gemstones that only look like diamonds. A lab grown diamond, however, is a real diamond made of pure carbon, just like a mined diamond.

How Are Lab Grown Diamonds Made?

There are two main methods used to make lab grown diamonds.

CVD (Chemical Vapour Deposition)

A small diamond seed is placed inside a chamber filled with carbon rich gas. The gas is heated, allowing carbon atoms to settle on the seed and slowly grow into a diamond.

HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature)

A carbon source is exposed to very high heat and pressure, similar to the natural conditions found deep inside the earth. This allows the carbon to form a diamond crystal.

Both methods produce real diamonds. The process used does not change the quality or authenticity of the diamond.

Are Lab Grown Diamonds Real?

Yes. Lab grown diamonds are real diamonds.

Here are a few reasons why:

• They are made of the same pure carbon as natural diamonds.
• They have the same crystal structure as mined diamonds.
• They score 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, making them the hardest natural material.
• They have the same sparkle, shine, and durability as natural diamonds.

Without specialised testing equipment, it is almost impossible to tell the difference between a lab grown diamond and a natural diamond. Even experienced jewellers cannot identify them by looking at them alone.

This is why lab grown diamonds are certified by recognised grading laboratories, just like natural diamonds.

Why More Buyers Are Choosing Lab Grown Diamond Rings

More people are choosing lab grown diamond rings because they offer the same look and quality as natural diamonds at a lower price. They are also certified, available in many designs, and make it easier to buy a bigger or better quality diamond within the same budget.

Some of the main reasons buyers prefer lab grown diamond rings are:

• Better value for money: Lab grown diamonds costs nearly one-forth than natural diamonds, so you can often buy a better quality diamond without increasing your budget.
• Larger diamonds: Since the price per carat is lower, many buyers choose a bigger diamond for the same amount they planned to spend.
• Certified diamonds: Most lab grown diamonds come with certification from recognised laboratories such as IGI, giving buyers confidence in the diamond's quality.
• More responsible choice: As lab grown diamonds are grown in a laboratory, they avoid the mining process, which many buyers prefer.
• Lower overall cost: A lab grown diamond ring can cost around 30–50% less than a similar natural diamond ring, depending on the size and quality.

Lab Grown Diamond vs Natural Diamond Price

One of the biggest reasons people choose lab grown diamonds is the price.

With the same budget, you can usually buy a larger diamond, a higher clarity grade, or a better cut compared to a natural diamond. This gives you more value without compromising on the beauty or durability of the diamond.

If you're buying a lab grown diamond ring or a special gift, comparing what you get for your budget is often more useful than comparing only the price. Lab grown diamond rings give buyers more choices while keeping the budget under control.

The difference between Lab Grown Diamonds Vs Natural diamond:

Things to Check Before Buying Lab Grown Diamond Rings Online

Buying a lab grown diamond ring online is easy when you know what to check. Looking at a few important details before placing your order can help you choose the right ring and buy with confidence.

1. Check the Diamond Certification: Always choose a certified diamond. A certificate confirms the diamond's quality and provides details such as its carat weight, cut, colour, and clarity.

• IGI Certification: The most common certification for lab grown diamonds. It verifies the diamond's quality and authenticity.
• GIA Certification: Another recognised diamond grading laboratory that also certifies lab grown diamonds worldwide.
• Laser Inscription: Many certified diamonds have a certificate number laser-inscribed on the edge of the diamond, allowing you to match the stone with its certificate.
  If a seller cannot provide a diamond certificate, it's better to choose another jeweller.

2. Understand the 4Cs: The quality and price of a diamond are based on the 4Cs.

• Cut: A well-cut diamond reflects more light and gives the best sparkle. This is one of the most important factors to consider.
• Colour: Diamond colour is graded from D (colourless) to Z (light yellow or brown). For most buyers, G-H colour offers a bright appearance at a good price.
• Clarity: Clarity refers to natural marks inside the diamond. VS1 and VS2 grades usually appear clean to the naked eye and offer good value.
• Carat: Carat measures the weight of the diamond. A well-cut smaller diamond can often look more attractive than a larger diamond with a poor cut.
  A good combination for first-time buyers is Excellent or Very Good cut,  G-H color, and VS1-VS2 clarity.
  This combination offers a good balance between quality and price.
  

3. Check the Gold Purity: The diamond is important, but so is the ring setting.

• 14K Gold: Strong and suitable for everyday wear.
• 18K Gold: Contains more gold and is often chosen for engagement and wedding rings.
• BIS Hallmark: Always make sure the ring is BIS hallmarked. It confirms the purity of the gold.

4. Read the Return and Exchange Policy: Before placing your order, check the brand's policies.

• Look for Ring resizing options.
• Return or exchange period Lifetime exchange or upgrade options 
• Warranty and repair services 

A clear policy gives you more confidence when buying online.

Best Lab Grown Diamond Ring Styles for First-Time Buyers

If this is your first diamond ring, these styles are popular and easy to choose from.

• Solitaire Rings: A solitaire ring features a single diamond at the centre. It is one of the most popular choices for engagements and everyday wear because of its simple design.
• Halo Rings: Halo rings have a centre diamond surrounded by smaller diamonds. This design makes the centre diamond look larger and adds extra sparkle.
• Hidden Halo Rings: In a hidden halo ring, the smaller diamonds are placed below the centre stone instead of around it. It offers a modern look while keeping the design simple from the top.
• Couple Rings: Couple rings are matching or similar rings designed for two people. They are popular for engagements, weddings, anniversaries, and special occasions.
• Minimal Daily Wear Rings: These rings have clean, simple designs that are comfortable to wear every day. They are a good choice if you're buying your first lab grown diamond ring or want something that matches every outfit.

How Much Do Lab Grown Diamond Rings Cost ?

The price of a lab grown diamond ring depends on the diamond, gold, and ring design. Carat size, cut, color, clarity, gold purity, and the number of diamonds used in the setting can all affect the final price.

As a general starting point:

These are approximate prices. The actual price can vary depending on diamond quality, gold karat, gold weight, design, and certification.

At Maiora Diamonds, lab grown diamond jewellery starts from ₹25,000, with prices depending on the design and diamond specifications.

What Affects the Price of a Lab Grown Diamond Ring?

Several factors can change the final price:

• Carat: Larger diamonds generally cost more. Prices can also increase at popular sizes such as 0.50 ct, 1 ct, and 2 ct.
• Cut: A well-cut diamond can cost more because of the way it reflects light.
• Colour: Colour grades can affect the price. Higher colour grades generally cost more.
• Clarity: Diamonds with fewer visible inclusions usually have a higher price.
• Gold: The karat, weight, and amount of gold used in the ring affect the total cost.
• Design: Rings with halos, multiple diamonds, or detailed settings usually cost more than simple solitaire designs.
• Certification: A certified diamond comes with a grading report that provides details about its quality.

How to Choose the Right Ring Size Online

Getting the right ring size is important when buying jewellery online. Fortunately, there are a few simple ways to measure your size at home.

• Measure an Existing Ring: If you already have a ring that fits the same finger, you can use it to find your size. Measure its inner diameter and compare it with the jewellery brand's ring size chart.
• Measure Your Finger: You can also measure your finger using a soft measuring tape or a strip of paper. Wrap it around the finger, mark where it meets, and compare the measurement with the brand's size chart.
• Use a Ring Sizer: Some jewellery brands provide a ring sizer or offer a physical ring sizer. This can make measuring easier and more accurate.
  Still Not sure about your ring size? Read our Ring Size Guide to find the right fit from the comfort of your home.
• Check the Resizing Policy: Even after measuring carefully, the ring may not fit perfectly. Before ordering, check whether the brand provides resizing and whether there are any additional charges.

Is It Safe to Buy Lab Grown Diamond Rings Online?

Yes, buying a lab grown diamond ring online can be safe when you choose a reliable jeweller and check the important details before placing your order.

• Check Customer Reviews: Read reviews about the complete buying experience, not just the product. Look for feedback about delivery, product quality, certification, packaging, customer service, and returns.
• Buy Certified Diamonds: Certification helps you understand exactly what you are buying. Look for a recognised laboratory such as IGI or GIA, depending on the diamond and report available.
• Check Shipping and Insurance: For a diamond ring, check how the jewellery is packaged and shipped. Look for secure and insured delivery so that the order is protected while it is in transit.
• Look for Customer Support: A good online jewellery store should make it easy to ask questions before buying. Some brands offer phone or video consultations where you can discuss diamond specifications, ring sizes, designs, and customisation.
  If you are unsure about a ring, speaking to a jewellery expert before placing the order can help you make a better decision.
• Check the Return and Exchange Policy: Before making the payment, read the return, exchange, resizing, and cancellation terms. Make sure you understand what happens if the ring does not fit or if you change your mind after receiving it.

Buying online becomes much easier when the brand is clear about its pricing, certification, delivery, customer support, and policies.

Common Mistakes First-Time Buyers Make

Buying your first lab grown diamond ring can be easier when you know what to avoid.

• Not checking certification: Don't choose a diamond based only on its price or appearance. Check that it comes with a recognised diamond certificate.
• Focusing only on carat: A bigger diamond is not always a better diamond. Cut quality also affects how much light the diamond reflects.
• Skipping the return policy: Always check the return, exchange, and resizing terms before placing your order.
• Ignoring cut quality: A larger diamond with a poor cut may not look as bright as a smaller diamond with a good cut.

Lab Grown Diamond Rings vs Natural Diamond Rings: What Changes for You?

Both lab grown and natural diamonds are real diamonds. The main difference for a buyer is their origin and price.

• Price: Lab grown diamonds generally cost less than natural diamonds of similar size and quality, allowing you to choose a larger stone within the same budget.
• Appearance: Both can have the same sparkle, colour, clarity, and cut grades. The difference in origin cannot be seen with the naked eye.
• Resale: Neither lab grown nor natural diamonds should be treated as an investment. Resale value depends on several factors and is generally lower than the original purchase price.
• Origin: Natural diamonds are formed underground over millions of years, while lab grown diamonds are created in a controlled laboratory environment.
• Choice: Some buyers prefer natural diamonds because of their origin and tradition. Others choose lab grown diamonds because of the lower price and the option to buy a larger or higher-quality diamond.

The right choice depends on your budget and what matters most to you.

Who Should Buy Lab Grown Diamond Rings?

Lab grown diamond rings can be a good option for:

• Engagement buyers who want a larger diamond within their budget.
• First-time buyers who want a certified, real diamond at a lower price.
• Daily wear shoppers looking for a genuine diamond ring for regular use.
• Budget-conscious buyers who want to spend less on the diamond and more on the ring design or gold.

Final Checklist Before Buying Online

Before placing your order, make sure you have checked:

• Diamond certification: Check the certificate and verify the details.
• Gold purity: Check the gold karat and BIS hallmark.
• Ring size: Confirm your size using the brand's size guide.
• Return and exchange policy: Check the return period, resizing options, and exchange terms.
• Delivery: Check the estimated delivery date, especially if you are buying for an engagement, wedding, or special occasion.
• Customer support: Make sure you can contact the brand if you have questions before or after your purchase.

Buying a lab grown diamond ring online does not have to be complicated. Once you understand the 4Cs, certification, gold purity, pricing, ring size, and return policy, you can compare rings and make a better decision.

Lab grown diamonds give buyers another way to purchase a real diamond while staying within their budget. The lower diamond cost can also give you the option to choose a larger stone, a different design, or better specifications.

Before you buy, take time to check the certificate, understand the diamond specifications, confirm your ring size, and read the brand's policies.

When you're ready, explore Maiora's lab grown diamond ring collection or speak with our team if you need help choosing a ring.

FAQs

Are lab grown diamond rings real diamonds ?

Ans: Yes. Lab grown diamonds are real diamonds made of carbon, just like natural diamonds. They have the same hardness, crystal structure, and optical properties as natural diamonds. They can also be graded and certified by recognised laboratories such as IGI and GIA.

Is it safe to buy a lab grown diamond ring online in India?

Ans: Yes, provided you buy from a trusted jeweller. Check that the diamond is certified, the gold is BIS hallmarked, and the brand clearly explains its return, exchange, resizing, and delivery policies.

How much does a 1 carat lab grown diamond ring cost ?

Ans: A 1 carat lab grown diamond ring can typically cost around ₹25,000 to ₹90,000. The final price depends on the diamond's cut, colour, clarity, certification, gold weight, and ring design.

What certification should I look for when buying a lab grown diamond ring ?

Ans: Look for a certificate from a recognised gemological laboratory such as IGI or GIA. You can also check whether the diamond has a laser inscription that matches the certificate number.

 Can I resize a lab grown diamond ring after buying it online ?

Ans: Yes, many jewellery brands offer ring resizing. However, resizing policies can vary by brand and design, so check the resizing terms before placing your order.

 Are lab grown diamond rings cheaper than natural diamond rings ?

Ans: Yes. Lab grown diamond rings are generally less expensive than natural diamond rings of similar size and quality. This can allow you to choose a larger diamond or a higher quality grade within the same budget.

 How do I choose the right lab grown diamond ring ?

Ans: Start by checking the 4Cs cut, colour, clarity, and carat. Then consider the gold purity, ring design, certification, size, and your budget. For a first-time buyer, cut quality and certification are two important things to check.

 How can I check my ring size before buying online ?

Ans: You can measure an existing ring that fits you or measure your finger at home and compare the measurement with the brand's ring size chart. You can also refer to a jewellery brand's ring size guide for step-by-step instructions.

Do lab grown diamonds lose their value ?

Ans: Like natural diamonds, lab grown diamonds should not be treated as an investment. Resale value depends on several factors and is generally lower than the original purchase price. If resale or future exchange is important to you, check the jeweller's policy before buying.

What should I check before buying a lab grown diamond ring online ?

Before placing your order, check the diamond certificate, 4Cs, gold purity and BIS hallmark, ring size, return and exchange policy, resizing options, delivery timeline, and customer reviews. These checks can help you make a more informed purchase.