Blue Nile vs Reeds Jewelers

Diamonds are a girl's best friend (and honestly, they're great for guys too), but there's one huge snag that keeps people from grabbing those glittery rocks: cost. Most people think of diamonds and think of dollar signs (and lots of ‘em). However, there are more cost-effective options. And, no, we're not talking about fakes or cubic zirconia lookalikes.

We're talking lab grown diamonds. These diamonds are just as real as the diamonds you find in the earth, but they come at a fraction of the cost. So, what exactly is a lab grown diamond? First - lab grown diamonds are real diamonds. According to diamond experts at the Gemological Institute of America, "lab grown" diamonds and "natural" diamonds have the same hardness and level of durability, the same level of clarity, and are both certified as diamonds.

Lab grown (or man made) diamonds have been created in a controlled laboratory environment. Using techniques like High Pressure High Temperature creation, diamonds can be crafted to look exactly like earth-mined diamonds and have the same chemical and physical makeup as their natural counterparts. The only differences between lab grown and earth-mined diamonds are so tiny no one will ever see them except under serious magnification.

For example, natural diamonds have nitrogen due to the process of being created over millions of years under the pressure of the earth. Lab grown diamond creation simulates that process and cuts down production time to a couple of months. Plus, there isn't any dangerous mining involved in lab grown diamonds, making it much safer, far less costly, and in many cases a more ethical or carbon-neutral choice. The price difference between lab grown and natural diamonds is usually around 30-50% less for a lab grown gem of the same cut and quality, making it possible to purchase a much larger certified diamond without breaking the bank.

So, whether you're looking to get a diamond for your engagement ring, hoping to buy something shiny to treat yourself, or looking to create a new family heirloom, finding a reliable place to get quality lab grown diamonds is important.

If you're not sure which lab-grown diamond jeweler or gemstone retailer is going to be your best bet, don't worry. We've put together a few factors to help you choose the best spot:

• Price. Lab grown diamonds are less costly than their earth-bound counterparts, but there is still a difference in price depending on where you buy. Make sure the cost is worth the size (carat) of the gemstone you're grabbing.
• Cuts. Not all diamonds are the same. Depending on your taste, you may want a different shape or cut that suits your style. Check if your chosen retailer offers your preferred cuts, whether you want round, princess, heart, pear, or something else entirely.
• Grading report. Some sites sell diamond simulants which are listed as lab created diamonds. However, this isn't the same as a lab grown diamond. You'll want to look for a grading report from a reputable lab like the IGI, EGL, or GIA to ensure that you're getting a real lab created diamond and not a knock off.
• Reputation. Look to see if your chosen retailer has a top-notch reputation. Check out customer reviews on purchases and returns before you buy. You can also look up your retailer on sites like the Better Business Bureau to see how it stacks up against competing retailers.

To help you enhance your sparkle, Top Consumer Reviews has researched and ranked today's most popular retailers and jewelers for lab grown diamonds. This way you can enjoy the discounts and know you're getting a certified diamond for you or for your special someone. Enjoy your new bling!