Why Are Diamonds Traditionally Used for Engagement Rings?
A century ago, no sign was equal between a diamond ring and an engagement. The rings of that time did not look attractive because the stones were sunk in the frame. Only when Tiffany “pulled” the diamond into the light and secured it with six locks did it sparkle with all its facets and gradually begin its glorious path to popularity. So, let’s find out why engagement rings with diamonds are the best option. Besides you can buy a 1.5 carat emerald cut diamond ring at a reasonable price and enjoy flawless quality.
History
At the beginning of the 20th century, a large number of diamond deposits were discovered in South Africa, and the De Beers corporation, which was created at that time, began promoting them in order to somehow regulate the prices of stones and make them desirable, expensive and well-sold.
The main ideologists of the importance of a diamond ring were women who, ironically, had never been married. However, it was they who, through the influencers of that time, were able to make all the brides eagerly await the cherished box. The Japanese wanted to adopt the Western way of life, so advertising campaigns featured photographs of Japanese women dressed in the Western style, with the coveted ring on their ring finger. So, in 10 years, the number of brides with a stone increased from 3 to 60%.
There was an unspoken rule: “A minimum of 2 salaries” — that was how much the ring presented to the bride had to cost. Thus, it was a symbol of a happy marriage and an indicator of the groom’s status and success.
A little later, generations changed, and the old paradigm no longer worked. Therefore, manufacturers began to promote the idea of ”feminism,” when a woman could buy a stone for herself without waiting for it from anyone. And since the left hand is reserved for engagement in the West, it was the right hand that remained vacant for spending on oneself.
In recent years, a diamond has become a gift for any occasion. It could be given on Father’s Day or Mother’s Day. Or even on New Year’s or a birthday. Diamonds are genuinely stunning stones and are a great way to show you are serious. However, you don’t have to wait until you are engaged to give a diamond jewelry. In today’s world, you can give it for any occasion or even for no reason.
Lab Diamonds VS Natural
Why pay more if there is no visible difference between a lab-grown diamond and a natural stone?
It is difficult to answer this question for everyone, as different buyers have different priorities. If appearance, physical-chemical, and optical identity are the only factors that matter to you, then it does not matter whether a diamond is lab-grown or natural. No one will notice the difference unless you tell them. However, a few significant differences should make you think twice when making your decision.
Price
Just 3-4 years ago, lab-grown diamonds cost 23-25% more than natural diamonds. Today, lab-grown diamonds are significantly cheaper than natural diamonds. From 50-60% more affordable, and sometimes up to 80% cheaper (if you buy it directly from the manufacturer). If you check diamond pricing, you’ll be pleasantly surprised.
Ecology
Many people are now concerned about natural diamond mining processes’ environmental and humanitarian impacts. This does not necessarily mean that natural diamonds are unethical. But, logically, lab-grown diamonds provide greater long-term sustainability than those mined from the earth. Each person has to choose whether they care about the environment by selecting lab-grown diamonds.
Quality
Lab-created and mined diamonds are identical to the naked eye. If you buy a lab-created diamond ring, only a lab expert will be able to tell what origin the diamond came from. In almost every case, a lab-created diamond will have the same sparkle and shine as a natural diamond, so if you are primarily looking for a beautiful diamond, lab-created diamonds can be a great, inexpensive option.
Conclusion
Of course, happiness in family life does not depend on the size of the stone in the ring. But a beautiful gemstone can be an excellent gift for your beloved. And you don’t have to spend a fortune on a natural stone. Lab-grown diamonds are just as good. And their price is much better.
