Oval Lab-Grown Diamond Engagement Rings

What are the benefits of an oval shape lab-grown diamond?

Lab diamonds continue to grow in popularity. The appeal is mainly due to the cost as lab-grown diamonds are over 75% less expensive than their natural counterparts. An oval lab diamond is physically, chemically, and optically the same as a natural oval diamond. The shape is durable, as no sharp edges will chip or snag on clothing. The oval's wide surface area can make the stone appear more prominent. An oval looks fantastic in different settings–from solitaire to halo and three stones. The oval shape can make the finger look longer and more graceful when set north-south.

How is a lab-grown diamond created?

There are two methods to create lab diamonds: High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD).HPHT was the first major method for creating lab-grown diamonds. It mimics the natural process of diamond formation in the span of a several weeks as opposed to several billion years. A diamond seed is placed into a special press with carbon. The area is until it reaches a temperature of around 1600 degrees Celsius, or about 2900 Fahrenheit. The chamber exerts pressure up to and over 870,000 pounds per square inch. Molten metal (typically from a source like graphite) in the chamber then dissolves the carbon source, and a diamond begins to form and build around the diamond seed.In CVD, a diamond seed is placed into a sealed vacuum chamber. After the chamber fills with carbon-heavy gas, like methane, it’s heated to a high temperature of around 1500 degrees Fahrenheit. The high temperatures convert the gas into plasma, which releases pieces of carbon. Those carbon pieces build upon the diamond seed originally placed in the chamber. Eventually, a full diamond forms after layer and layer of carbon pieces attach to the seed. The whole process produces incredible, chemically-pure diamonds free of most impurities. They don’t contain metal inclusions, either.You can read more about HPHT and CVD in our blog, An In-Depth Look at CVD vs. HPHT.

What’s the difference between lab-grown diamond engagement rings vs natural diamonds?

Natural diamonds form over millions of years under pressure from the Earth’s crust, and are mined, cut, and polished to produce the brilliant stones you find in jewelry. Lab-grown diamonds undergo the same process, only instead of millions of years, they form in a few weeks via a high temperature or a chemical vapor process. The difference between a natural and lab-grown diamond is indistinguishable to the naked eye. They have the same chemical and physical attributes, but specially trained gemologists may be able to use a magnifying tool to indicate growth patterns or the presence of elements that would help distinguish one from the other. However, the most trusted method is to use a testing machine. Both types can have inclusions, or tiny flaws, but have identical hardness.

Are lab-grown diamonds as durable as natural ones?

Natural and lab created diamonds have the exact same chemical composition. Because of this, lab diamonds are also just as durable as natural diamonds meaning they are the hardest, most durable gemstone on the Mohs scale.

Are lab-grown diamonds GIA-certified?

Not all lab-grown diamonds are GIA certified. However, all lab-grown diamonds at Lauren B are GIA certified! Browse our inventory of GIA Graded lab diamonds.

Will an oval lab-grown diamond suit an Invisible Gallery™ band?

Of course! Any lab diamond shape will look suit our Invisible Gallery™ band. Check out some of our oval lab diamond Invisible Gallery™ rings..

Can a oval lab diamond be set east-west?

The beauty of designing a custom engagement ring is that you can set any stone shape north-south or east-west, depending on your preferences. Traditionally, an oval diamond is set north-south; however, that doesn’t mean an oval set east-west looks any less beautiful. This orientation sits horizontally on the finger. It covers more real estate, making the ring appear larger. Individuals who prefer a sleek, unembellished setting should consider a bezel or a solitaire with six prongs to enhance the circular shape. A three-stone setting with the oval flanked by pear-shaped diamonds will make the center stone appear even more substantial.

What side stone shapes are most popular with an oval lab-grown diamond?

Popular side stones for your oval lab diamond three-stone ring include pear shaped diamond side stones, half-moon diamond side stones, and oval diamond side stones.

Does a halo enhance an oval shape lab-grown diamond?

A halo setting has pave diamonds encircling a center stone, which means it takes up more space on the finger. A halo setting with pave diamonds that match the center stone’s color, clarity, and cut can make an oval diamond appear larger. The contrasting color and brilliance of the pave diamonds compared to the center stone can make the oval stand out. The halo also serves an essential function by protecting the center stone from damage. An oval diamond in a halo setting is ideal for individuals who desire an attention-grabbing, ultra-sparkly engagement ring.