A diamond pendant can be among the easiest jewelry to wear, it matches with everything and is a perfect addition to both morning wear for the office and evening wear. The difficult part is choosing the diamond, set and chain that you desire.
The beauty and physical properties of lab created diamond pendant jewelry present buyers with an additional option to choose from over mined diamonds. Since there are lab created diamonds available in a range of cuts, carat weights, colors and grades of clarity, customers have a lot of flexibility when it comes to balancing appearance and budget.
That said the choice can also confuse. Should you go for carat weight or cut? Is a solitaire better than a halo? How important is clarity in a pendant?
This guide breaks down the practical details of choosing lab made diamonds so that you can confidently compare different options between each other and choose what suits your style rather than just the specifications on a grading report.
What Is a Lab Grown Diamond Pendant?
A lab grown diamond pendant is one that has been created in a laboratory environment and has the same chemical composition and crystal structure as diamonds.
They should not be mixed up with diamond alternatives such as cubic zirconia or moissanite, these are alternative materials. Lab created diamonds are diamonds created in conditions designed to mimic the formation of a stone of natural origin.
Popular styles of pendants include:
- Classic solitaire pendants
- Halo
- Bezel-set
- Three-stone
- Geometric
- Heart and other symbolic
Your best bet depends largely on how often you plan on wearing the necklace and how prominent you want the centerpiece stone to be.
How to Choose a Lab Grown Diamond Pendant
The familiar 4Cs – cut, color, clarity and carat are a good place to start. However, they are not the be-all and end-all of shopping for pendant jewelry.
Prioritize Cut and Beauty
Cut has a big impact on how well a faceted diamond reflects light and what visual effect it has on the stone. If you are looking for something that sparkles and has a sense of life, a stone cut wrong can take away the light and sparkle even if it has a higher carat weight.
Rather than prioritizing carat weight, think about how the individual stone looks and whether the cut is right for the cut. Round diamonds are always a hit for their classic appearance, oval, pear, emerald and princess cuts can create a more unique look.
Think About Color and Clarity
Pendants are usually viewed from a greater distance than rings and small inclusions that could detract from the brilliance of an engagement ring could be completely overlooked when the diamond is around the neckline.
Metal is also an important consideration. White gold and platinum can provide a look that complements a bright and colorless appearance, while yellow and rose gold can present an attractive contrast and may enhance the appeal of a slightly warmer stone.
Choosing the Best Setting for Your Pendant
The setting has an impact on the aesthetics as well as the practical aspects of the pendant.
A prong setting exposes more of the stone which can provide a light and traditional look. A bezel setting wraps around the diamond with metal which provides a clean look and also provides extra protection to the edges of the stone.
Halo settings have smaller stones encircling the center stone to create a bigger overall presence. They can be a great choice for customers who want sparkle without having to go for a bigger center stone.
Think about your daily routine as well. If you are someone who wears necklaces to work frequently, a secure and less conspicuous setting may be more important.
Match the Chain to the Diamond
The chain is often overlooked but it is important to be able to wear the necklace comfortably and also securely.
A delicate chain can complement a small solitaire, however, a bigger pendant may require a slightly stronger chain. Length also plays a part, shorter chains will put the pendant higher on the chest, longer chains may be good for layered looks.
It is worth checking clasps, thickness and connections prior to buying. After all, a beautiful diamond isn’t very useful if the necklace itself feels weak or uncomfortable.
Is a Lab Grown Diamond Pendant Worth Considering?
It can be a great choice for those who desire real diamond pendant jewelry but wish to compare and contrast between different options in terms of price, sizes and designs.
Avoid judging value purely on carat weight. Compare the overall package of diamond quality, the cut, the metal, the chain, the certification (if any), warranty and return policy. A smaller, beautifully cut diamond in a nice setting can actually look better than a larger stone with the weight as the reason for its selection.
FAQs
Are lab-grown diamonds real diamonds?
lab created diamonds are real diamonds. They have practically the same chemical composition and crystal structure as mined diamonds. These are not simulant materials such as cubic zirconia.
What diamond shape works best for a pendant?
Round diamonds offer a timeless look, however oval, pear, emerald, princess and other cuts can work beautifully. The best choice depends on your style and the design of the pendant.
Can a diamond pendant be worn every day?
Yes, provided the setting and chain is suitable for everyday wear. Secure settings, good clasps and strong enough chains are particularly important for frequently worn necklaces.
How should I care for a diamond pendant?
You should be able to clean it gently with warm water, a bit of soap and a soft brush occasionally. Store it separately from other jewelry and have your set examined if it becomes loose.
Final Thoughts on Choosing a Lab Grown Diamond Pendant
The best lab made diamond pendant is not necessarily the one with the biggest stone or highest grades. It is the pendant that balances out beauty, technique, durability, budget and personal style.
Think about the cut, choose a setting that complements your lifestyle and pay no less attention to the quality of the chain. By looking at the whole package and not focusing too much on the details of a particular aspect, you can choose a pendant that looks good now and be worn happily for years to come.
