Should your Yellow Diamond Engagement Ring be Synthetic?

Even though the world of engagement jewellery has changed rapidly and drastically in the past two decades or so, certain maxims, ideals and clichés usually associated with it continue to be held. The one that states that a synthetic stone is an undesirable stone, for instance, continues to be viewed as truth by a large percentage of experts and the buying population.

However, an argument can be made to support the fact that synthetic stones are getting a worse rap than they deserve. Interestingly, while nowhere near as valuable as real diamonds, these lab-created gems have a few distinct advantages, too.

The Pros

If a yellow diamond engagement ring could be chosen, for purposes of discussion, to represent the ‘standard’ synthetic stone, the main attribute of this type of gem is its affordability. Yellow diamonds are best suited for couples who wish to acquire a colourful gem but do not want to spend the prohibitive amounts required for a ‘fancy’ or differently-hued diamond. Created in a totally artificial environment, usually a laboratory, these stones are much more likely to fill a consumer’s needs without breaking his or her bank. As such, it is not surprising that so many brides or grooms, especially younger ones or those with lower incomes, choose a yellow diamond engagement ring.

Furthermore, synthetic gems are better for the environment than natural ones, as they do away with all the questionable practices which are sadly still associated with diamond mining in most parts of the world. Couples who choose a synthetic yellow diamond engagement ring over one with a natural stone will therefore be getting the best of both worlds: a more affordable stone which is also more eco-friendly. Add the possibility of endless customisation options and also, according to some, the added comfort they represent when compared to ‘real’ diamonds, and a strong argument in their favour is compounded.

The Cons

However, even while acknowledging the good features of a synthetic diamond, one must also acknowledge its flaws: namely that, when compared to natural stones, they tend to be less brilliant and to lose their lustre more quickly in a similar fashion to chemically treated natural stones. A yellow diamond engagement ring with a synthetic stone rather than a real one is therefore more likely to lose its appeal over time than its counterpart.

More importantly, however, there continues to be a stigma associated with synthetic stones to which most brides and grooms still adhere. Because they are more affordable and less valuable than real diamonds, these stones are considered, by definition, to be inferior, second-rate and undesirable; this, ultimately, affects their sales volumes when compared to authentic diamonds. However, that need not be the case. Synthetic gems may have their flaws, but also have enough qualities to make their purchase worth considering by lovers on a budget.

Frederick Holm is staff writer for the F&L Designer Guides, compiled and written to help consumers choose a unique engagement ring design. From yellow diamond engagement rings to princess cuts and engraved bands, we have ideas and opinions covering all options. Offering advice, tips and suggestions on how to choose the perfect ring, F&L will accompany you on every stage of your search to find the right designer.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.