Ready-To-Ship Vs. Custom Lab-Grown Diamond Jewelry: Which Option Is Right For You?

So, you've made up your mind to buy yourself or someone special some lab-grown diamond jewelry and you're on the fence about whether you should opt for custom jewelry or something ready-made. 

We know; customizing your jewelry, especially lab-grown diamond engagement rings, offers a great chance to capture your unique moments in a love story. But that doesn’t mean off-the-shelf options can't be just as meaningful (if not better) depending on your situation. 

In this blog, we're comparing the differences between custom and ready-to-ship lab-grown diamond jewelry, how to get the custom lab-grown jewelry design process right, and things to keep in mind before you take the next step.

What's the difference between custom and ready-to-ship lab-grown diamond jewelry?

Before you even consider deciding whether you want your next dazzling piece to be custom-made or off the shelf, it's important to understand their differences. After all, both options have their own perks. 

Ready-to-ship lab-grown diamond jewelry

Ready-to-ship jewelry is pre-designed and fully crafted, sitting pretty in a designer’s collection. Each piece is meticulously produced, thoroughly quality-checked, and available for immediate purchase and fast shipping. The best part? There are so many options to choose from, and if you choose the right seller, you'll always be spoilt for choice.

• Ready-to-ship lab-grown diamond jewelry is perfect for those last-minute proposals or surprise gifts when time isn’t on your side.

• These pieces have been refined over time; you know you’re choosing a design that’s been tried, tested, and loved by many.

• With batch production comes economies of scale, meaning you'll be able to get your ready-to-ship lab-grown diamonds at a great price point. 

• Thanks to detailed images, descriptions, and customer reviews, you will always have complete confidence in what you're ordering.

Custom lab-grown diamond jewelry

Custom jewelry lets you co-create your lab diamond jewelry. You get to collaborate with skilled artisans to design unique pieces, and in the case of engagements a lab-grown diamond ring that's as special as your love story. From the first consultation to delivery, all aspects of your lab-grown diamond ring will be tailored to your unique vision and personal style, whether you want something charming and understated or bold. 

• Every element from the diamonds cut and setting to the metal and engravings is crafted according to your taste.

• You get the freedom to design lab diamond jewelry that has your own unique moments and personality behind it. 

• Custom pieces carry an intrinsic value and have the potential to become a future heirloom, provided you design it right. 

Things to consider when making your choice

Before you commit to one path over the other, you need to weigh the important factors to see which option makes the most sense for you. Here are things to consider before buying ready-to-ship or custom lab-grown diamond jewelry. 

1. Urgency

If you’re planning a last-minute proposal and need a lab-grown diamond engagement ring fast or you're looking for the perfect gift for an occasion that's just a stone's throw away, ready-to-ship diamond jewelry is the right option for you. 

Custom orders on the other hand require a bit more patience and can even take several weeks or months depending on demand. However, it's that extra time that ensures every detail is crafted perfectly, and if you plan in advance, it's worth the wait in our books!

2. Your budget

Ready-to-ship diamond jewelry tends to be more cost-effective. This is because when jewelry is mass-produced, cost savings follow, and they will be passed down to you. Paired with the competitive pricing of lab-grown diamonds, you'll be sure to get that lab-grown diamond engagement ring, necklace, or earrings at a great price. 

Custom lab-grown jewelry on the other hand will cost you more. After all, you will be getting a one-of-a-kind piece that not only carries sentimental value but also has potential heirloom quality. Want to buy lab-grown diamond jewelry that's priced a little higher than you can afford right now? Consider financing options.

3. Personalization

With ready-to-ship collections, you’re choosing from designs that have already resonated with many, and while you can choose to engrave something special in a ready-to-ship lab-grown diamond engagement ring, there's a limit to how much you can personalize it. 

Custom lab diamond jewelry gives you the freedom to choose all aspects of design, from the diamond’s cut and shape to the setting style, metal type, and even personalized engravings. Plus, the journey of creating your custom jewelry is just as meaningful as the final piece, and you can make it tell the story you want it to.

4. Sustainability and ethical considerations

Whether you opt for ready-to-ship or custom, lab-grown diamonds deliver the same sparkle and durability as mined diamonds but with a significantly lower environmental impact and higher ethical standards.

For the eco-conscious consumer, verifying that your chosen jeweler commits to transparency and sustainable practices is crucial. You can rest assured knowing both options align with your values, as long as you choose a brand you can trust. 

The best way to design custom lab-grown diamond jewelry

1. Start with a clear vision

Great masterpieces start with inspiration. So, spend time going through mood boards, celebrity jewelry designs, Pinterest, and even jewelry websites to identify the elements that resonate with you. Think about the style, setting, and overall look you want your lab diamond jewelry to embody. Are you drawn to a modern minimalist design, or do you prefer a vintage aesthetic? Once you've got a starting point, everything will be so much easier. 

2. Connect with a jeweler

Schedule a consultation with a jeweler who specializes in custom lab-grown diamond jewelry. This is the time for you to sit down, and share your ideas openly. An experienced jeweler will guide you through design possibilities and even suggest a few things you may have not considered while envisioning your lab diamond jewelry while ensuring your vision takes the lead.

3. Stay involved in every step

The design process usually involves multiple stages, from initial sketches and 3D renderings to finalizing the finer details before your lab-grown diamond jewelry is made. So, be sure to stay engaged through each step, telling your jeweler what you like and what you don’t like and asking them questions to ensure your masterpiece lives up to all your expectations. 

4. Be open to your jeweler's expert recommendations

Remember grandma's wedding dress with puffy sleeves and bows? Imagine wearing it just the way it is right now. The bottom line is, unique doesn't always mean better.

When it comes to investing in lab-grown diamond jewelry, the trade-off between something that's standout and something that stands the test of time, years down the line is something worth pondering on. So, be open to suggestions from your jeweler to ensure your masterpiece not only looks good but also lasts. 

5. Set clear terms upfront

To avoid surprises, make sure you have a written agreement in place with your jeweler regarding timelines, pricing, and potential adjustments. Understanding what might lead to price changes, such as design modifications or unexpected production challenges, will keep you informed throughout the process.

The takeaway

Choosing between ready-to-ship and custom lab-grown diamond jewelry orders ultimately boils down to what makes the most sense for you in terms of how soon you'll get it, how personal you want it to be, price and more. By following these tips, you'll be sure to make the right buying decision, after all, diamonds are a sizeable investment. Happy lab-grown diamond jewelry shopping!

Ready-to-ship lab-grown jewelry is perfect for those who need their diamond piece fast and want to see exactly what they’re buying. On the other hand, custom lab-grown diamond jewelry offers a more tailored, one-of-a-kind option, ideal for engagements, anniversaries, or special milestones.

Frequently asked questions

1. How do lab-grown diamonds compare to natural diamonds in durability?

Since they’re identical in every way, they also have the same hardness (10 Mohs scale) and durability as natural diamonds. So, rest assured the are just as resistant to scratched and everyday wear.

2. Can the price of custom lab-grown jewelry change after I place my order?

Once you've finalized your design and placed your custom jewelry order, the price is generally fixed. However, if you request big changes or unforeseen issues that require additional work occur, adjustments may be needed. Make sure you communicate with your jeweler and have a clear agreement that details possibilities to avoid surprises.

3. How fast does it typically take for ready-to-ship lab-grown diamond engagement rings to be shipped?

That depends on your jeweler. Some can ship ready-to-ship lab-grown diamond engagement rings within 24 to 72 hours after your order is placed while others may need a little longer to process your order. However, shipping times can vary depending on the jeweler’s location, inventory, and processing procedures. Always check with them to get their exact estimated delivery time.

4. How long does a custom lab-grown diamond jewelry order take?

Custom lab diamond jewelry orders typically take longer than ready-to-ship pieces. Depending on the complexity of the design and the jeweler’s schedule, it can take anywhere from several weeks to a few months. Make sure you plan in advance to ensure your timeline is met.

5. Can I still customize ready-to-ship lab-grown diamond jewelry?

Yes, you can often add personal touches to ready-to-ship jewelry, though the customization options are usually more limited compared to fully custom pieces. Many jewelers offer features like selecting different metal types or adding a personal engraving. However, if you're looking to completely tailor every detail, a custom lab diamond jewelry order is the way to go. 

We recommend that you check with your jeweler to understand what specific customizations are available for their ready-to-ship collection.

6. Do lab-grown diamonds have resale value?

Lab-grown diamond jewelry typically has a lower resale value than natural diamonds because they are widely available and not as rare. But their affordability and ethical appeal make them quite sought after. 

7. Can I insure my lab-grown diamond jewelry?

Of course. Just like natura diamond jewelry, lab-grown diamond jewelry can also be insured. Many jewelry insurers cover theft, loss, and damage, so be sure to get an appraisal and confirm with your insurance provider. 

8. Can jewelry stores test for lab grown diamonds?

Yes, jewelry stores can test for lab-grown diamonds using advanced gemological equipment to distinguish them from natural diamonds.