Top Diamond Shapes and Settings Post Lab-Grown Diamond Revolution

The rise of lab-grown diamonds has turned the jewelry industry on its head, creating new opportunities for consumers to indulge in luxurious stones without breaking the bank—or compromising their values. As these ethically sourced and budget-friendly gems continue to gain popularity, we've seen a shift in the demand for various diamond shapes and settings. So, what are the top choices today? Let’s dive in.

The Most Popular Diamond Shapes

1. Round Brilliant Cut

The round brilliant cut is, without a doubt, the reigning champion of diamond shapes. This classic design has been a favorite for decades, and its popularity hasn’t waned, even with the introduction of lab-grown diamonds. The brilliance of this cut, with its 58 facets designed to maximize light reflection, is unmatched. Lab-grown diamonds, with their perfect clarity and color, make the round brilliant cut shine even brighter.

2. Princess Cut

Next up is the princess cut, known for its sharp, square shape and modern appeal. It’s the go-to choice for those who want something a bit more edgy than the traditional round cut. The princess cut’s clean lines and contemporary feel have made it a staple in engagement rings, especially in solitaire settings. The affordability of lab-grown diamonds has allowed more people to enjoy larger carat sizes in this stunning cut.

3. Cushion Cut

The cushion cut has surged in popularity in recent years, thanks to its vintage charm and romantic appeal. This shape features rounded corners and larger facets, which create a soft, pillow-like appearance. It’s a versatile cut that looks beautiful in both vintage-inspired and modern settings. Lab-grown diamonds enhance the cushion cut’s inherent sparkle, making it a favorite among those who love a blend of old-world elegance and contemporary style.

4. Oval Cut

The oval cut is an elongated version of the round brilliant, offering a unique shape while still delivering exceptional brilliance. This cut has gained popularity because it creates the illusion of longer, more slender fingers, and because it often appears larger than a round diamond of the same carat weight. Lab-grown diamonds have made the oval cut more accessible, allowing for impressive sizes without the hefty price tag.

5. Emerald Cut

For those who appreciate a more understated and sophisticated look, the emerald cut is a top choice. This shape is characterized by its rectangular facets that create a “hall of mirrors” effect, emphasizing clarity over brilliance. While not as flashy as the round or princess cuts, the emerald cut is beloved for its elegant and timeless appearance. Lab-grown diamonds, known for their impeccable clarity, are particularly well-suited to this cut, highlighting its clean lines and classic appeal.

Trending Diamond Settings

1. Solitaire Setting

The solitaire setting continues to be a timeless favorite. Its simplicity allows the diamond to take center stage, whether it’s a classic round brilliant or a more unique shape like the emerald cut. This setting is versatile, complementing any diamond shape, and remains a top choice for engagement rings. With lab-grown diamonds offering more value for money, many are opting for solitaire settings with larger stones.

2. Halo Setting

The halo setting has become incredibly popular in recent years, and for good reason. This design features a central diamond surrounded by a ring of smaller stones, which enhances the overall sparkle and gives the illusion of a larger center stone. It’s a perfect choice for those who want maximum brilliance. Lab-grown diamonds in halo settings are particularly stunning, as the high-quality, affordable stones can be used both in the center and the surrounding halo, creating a dazzling effect.

3. Pavé Setting

Pavé settings involve small diamonds set closely together, covering the band and creating a continuous sparkle. This setting works beautifully with various diamond shapes, particularly round and princess cuts. The pavé setting is ideal for those who want a ring that glitters from every angle. With lab-grown diamonds, the pavé setting is more affordable than ever, making it a popular choice for those looking for a ring with a lot of bling.

4. Three-Stone Setting

The three-stone setting, also known as the trilogy setting, symbolizes the past, present, and future, making it a meaningful choice for engagement rings or anniversary bands. Typically, the center stone is larger and flanked by two smaller stones, which can be the same shape or different for a unique look. Lab-grown diamonds are perfect for this setting, as they allow for larger stones without the higher costs traditionally associated with mined diamonds.

5. Bezel Setting

The bezel setting is a modern, practical choice, where the diamond is encircled by a metal rim, offering maximum protection. It’s a popular choice for those with active lifestyles, as it secures the diamond while maintaining a sleek and contemporary look. This setting works well with round, oval, and emerald cuts. With lab-grown diamonds, the bezel setting offers a blend of modern design and affordability, making it an attractive option for those who prefer a minimalist aesthetic.

How Lab-Grown Diamonds Have Changed the Game

The advent of lab-grown diamonds has democratized the diamond market, making it possible for more people to own larger, higher-quality stones at a fraction of the cost of mined diamonds. This shift has not only made luxury more accessible but has also led to a broader range of shapes and settings being explored by consumers.

With the ethical and environmental benefits of lab-grown diamonds, many are choosing these stones over traditional mined diamonds. The ability to purchase a diamond that is both affordable and aligned with personal values has opened up new possibilities in design and style, leading to a resurgence in certain shapes and settings.

Conclusion

Lab-grown diamonds have undoubtedly influenced the current trends in diamond shapes and settings. Whether you’re drawn to the timeless round brilliant or the modern halo setting, the innovation in lab-grown diamonds offers endless possibilities. As consumers continue to seek out ethically sourced, high-quality stones, we can expect these trends to evolve, bringing even more exciting options to the world of fine jewelry.

If you’re in the market for a diamond, whether lab-grown or mined, these popular shapes and settings offer a perfect blend of style, elegance, and innovation. Remember, your ring is a reflection of your personal taste, so choose a combination that resonates with you and your story.