Lab grown diamonds are no longer just a budget-friendly alternative to mined diamonds—they’ve become a serious consideration for modern investors and collectors. With price stability, increasing consumer demand, and high-quality options available, lab created diamonds are entering the conversation as a new category in alternative assets. This guide explains how to invest in lab grown diamonds, what to look for, and how to get started.
What Makes Lab Grown Diamonds an Investment Opportunity?
Lab grown diamonds are chemically and optically identical to natural diamonds. The difference lies in their origin: instead of forming over billions of years underground, they are grown in a laboratory using advanced technology like HPHT (High Pressure, High Temperature) or CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition).
Unlike mined diamonds, which are influenced by complex global supply chains and mining costs, lab grown diamonds offer:
- Greater affordability – Costing 30–60% less than natural diamonds
- Higher accessibility – Easier entry points for new investors
- Transparency in quality – With certifications from IGI and GIA
They also present a compelling alternative to traditional diamond purchases. As demand increases, especially among younger consumers, lab grown diamonds are becoming more attractive for collectors who value both beauty and market trends.
Are Lab Grown Diamonds a Good Investment?
This is one of the most commonly searched questions—and the answer depends on your goals. If you’re seeking short-term resale profit, lab grown diamonds may not appreciate like rare natural stones. But if your investment priorities include:
- Tangible assets you can wear or gift
- Personalized heirloom creation
- Entry-level diamond collecting
- Building value through design, craftsmanship, and size
…then lab grown diamonds can be a strong and practical investment.
How to Choose a Lab Grown Diamond for Investment
1. Prioritize Certification
Look for diamonds certified by trusted institutions like IGI or GIA. Certification documents provide crucial insight into the diamond’s cut, color, clarity, carat weight, and whether it is lab grown or mined.
2. Go Bigger Where Possible
Larger carat weights (1.50ct and up) in high color (D–F) and clarity (VS1 and above) grades will retain desirability. Classic cuts like round, oval, and emerald are less subject to trends and perform better on the secondary market.
3. Focus on Cut Quality
An excellent cut enhances brilliance and visual size, two features that drive perceived value. Even if all other grades are high, a poorly cut diamond will not command strong resale or appraisal performance.
How to Start Investing in Lab Grown Diamonds
Step 1: Set Your Strategy
Decide whether you want:
- Loose stones for future resale or resetting
- Finished jewelry to wear or hold as heirloom pieces
- Custom jewelry to personalize your investment
Step 2: Work with a Reputable Jeweler
Investing in lab grown diamonds should always be done through trusted, knowledgeable sources. At Waterfall Jewelers, we offer access to certified lab diamonds, personalized consultations, and custom design services for investors and collectors alike.
Step 3: Protect the Investment
Insure your diamonds, keep all certificates and appraisals, and have your jewelry cleaned and checked regularly by a professional.
Should I Buy Loose Lab Grown Diamonds or Set Jewelry?
Loose stones are ideal for flexibility, easier resale, and future design freedom.
Set jewelry (engagement rings, pendants, eternity bands) offers wearable value and emotional appeal.
If you’re interested in investment potential plus personal use, purchasing a certified loose lab grown diamond with the intent to customize may offer the best of both worlds.
Investment-Worthy Lab Diamond Jewelry Ideas
Lab Grown Engagement Rings – Classic solitaires or hidden halo settings with larger carat stones
- Eternity Bands – Full-circle styles featuring uniform lab diamonds
- Lab Grown Tennis Bracelets – Luxurious, investment-grade designs in white or yellow gold
- Loose Lab Grown Diamonds – Ideal for future redesigns, reselling, or collection building
Shop Waterfall Jewelers’ Lab Grown Diamond Collection or explore Custom Design Services to create a personalized investment piece.
Local Expertise for Smart Jewelry Investing
With over 40 years of experience, Waterfall Jewelers is the trusted source for lab grown diamonds in White Lake and Waterford, MI. Our family-owned heritage ensures that every customer receives expert guidance, honest recommendations, and access to certified stones and personalized service.
Locations:
White Lake – White Lake Commons
10429 Highland Road | (248) 698-1200
Waterford – Telegraph Road
435 N Telegraph Road | (248) 623-9422
Final Thoughts: Is It Smart to Invest in Lab Grown Diamonds?
If you value tangible, wearable assets and want to make a smart jewelry purchase that balances beauty and size, lab grown diamonds are a compelling choice. While they may not offer the speculative returns of rare natural stones, they present practical advantages in terms of entry cost, desirability, and long-term personal value.
For those interested in building a luxury portfolio or simply investing in fine jewelry that holds meaning and style, lab grown diamonds offer a refined, future-forward approach.
Explore Your Options
Book a one-on-one appointment with a diamond specialist at Waterfall Jewelers.
Browse certified loose lab grown diamonds and fine jewelry in-store or online.
Learn about our custom design options to create your own investment piece.