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Do Lab Grown Diamonds Hold Their Value?

Lab-created diamonds have rapidly transformed the jewelry industry, especially in engagement rings and modern fine jewelry. Many buyers today choose lab diamond rings because they offer the same brilliance and durability as mined diamonds at a much more accessible price. However, one common question remains: do lab grown diamonds hold their value over time?

The answer is more nuanced than a simple yes or no. While lab grown diamonds do have resale value, their price behavior is different from natural diamonds due to production methods, supply levels, and evolving market demand. Understanding how value works in the lab diamond market can help you make a more informed purchase.

do lab grown diamonds hold their value​

Table Of Contents:

Understanding Value vs. Price in Lab Grown Diamonds

Before discussing resale value, it is important to distinguish between price and value. Price refers to how much you pay when buying a diamond, while value reflects what the market is willing to pay later if you resell it.

Lab grown diamonds are real diamonds with the same chemical composition, hardness, and optical brilliance as mined stones. The main difference is that they are produced in controlled laboratories using advanced methods such as CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition) or HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature).

Because they can be produced in larger quantities, their market pricing behaves more like technology products than rare natural resources. As production efficiency improves, prices for new lab diamonds gradually decrease, which can affect resale value.

Do Lab Grown Diamonds Have Resale Value?

Yes, lab grown diamonds do have resale value, but it is typically lower than that of natural diamonds.

Current market analyses suggest that most lab grown diamonds retain around 20% to 40% of their original retail price when resold depending on factors such as quality, certification, and market conditions.

For example, a lab diamond purchased for several thousand dollars might resell for a few hundred to a couple thousand dollars in the secondary market.

However, this depreciation does not necessarily mean the purchase is a poor financial choice. Because lab grown diamonds cost significantly less upfront than natural diamonds, the absolute financial loss is often smaller.

Why Lab Grown Diamonds Depreciate Faster

Several structural factors influence how lab grown diamonds retain value.

Increasing Production

Unlike natural diamonds that formed billions of years ago, lab diamonds can be manufactured whenever demand increases. Advances in production technology allow manufacturers to create high-quality diamonds more efficiently each year.

This continuous supply keeps prices competitive and can push resale values down for previously purchased stones.

Lower Initial Purchase Price

Lab grown diamonds often cost 40% to 80% less than comparable natural diamonds, which means buyers already receive substantial value at the time of purchase.

Because the starting price is lower, resale percentages may look smaller even though buyers initially saved a significant amount.

Limited Secondary Market

The resale infrastructure for lab diamonds is still developing. Traditional jewelers, auction houses, and estate dealers historically focused on natural diamonds, so fewer established channels exist for reselling lab grown stones.

As the popularity of lab diamonds continues to grow, the resale market is expected to evolve as well.

Lab Grown Diamonds vs Natural Diamonds in Value Retention

When comparing resale performance, natural diamonds generally hold value slightly better due to rarity and long-established market demand.

Natural diamonds typically retain around 25% to 50% of their retail price when resold, depending on quality and market conditions.

However, this comparison can be misleading without considering the purchase price. A natural diamond engagement ring might cost $20,000, while a similar lab diamond ring might cost $5,000. Even if the natural diamond retains a higher percentage, the total financial loss could still be greater.

For many buyers, the affordability and size advantages of lab diamonds outweigh resale considerations.

Factors That Affect Lab Diamond Resale Value

Not all lab grown diamonds perform the same in the secondary market. Several factors influence how much value a diamond retains.

Certification

Diamonds with reputable grading reportsβ€”such as IGI or GIAβ€”are easier to resell because buyers can verify their quality.

Cut Quality

Excellent or ideal cut diamonds maintain stronger demand. A well-cut stone reflects light better and retains visual appeal even years later.

Carat Weight

Larger diamonds often retain relatively better value because high-carat stones remain desirable for engagement rings and luxury jewelry.

Overall Jewelry Design

A diamond set in a beautifully crafted ring may retain more value than a loose stone because the design adds aesthetic and emotional appeal.

The True Value of Lab Grown Diamonds

While resale value is often discussed, most jewelry purchases are not investment assets. Engagement rings and diamond jewelry are typically bought for their emotional significance rather than financial return.

Lab grown diamonds excel in areas that matter to many modern buyers:

  • Exceptional brilliance and clarity

  • Ethical and environmentally responsible sourcing

  • Larger diamonds at a lower price

  • Modern customization possibilities

Because of these advantages, lab diamonds have become increasingly popular with couples who want a beautiful ring without the high cost traditionally associated with diamonds.

Why Many Buyers Still Choose Lab Diamonds

Even knowing that resale values may be lower, many consumers still prefer lab diamonds for practical reasons.

First, the initial savings allow buyers to choose a larger or higher-quality stone within the same budget. Second, lab diamonds offer peace of mind for buyers who value sustainable and conflict-free sourcing.

Finally, jewelry is often worn for decades, making everyday enjoyment more important than resale potential.

oval cut lab diamond engagement ring

Oval Cut Lab Diamond Ring with Sapphire Accents

marquise cut lab diamond three stone ring

Marquise Lab Diamond Three Stone Ring

oval cut lab diamond twisted engagement ring

Oval Twisted Lab Diamond Ring

pear cut lab diamond twisted engagement ring

Pear Lab Diamond Pave Ring

Why Buy Lab Diamond Jewelry from MollyJewelryUS

When purchasing lab grown diamond jewelry, choosing a trusted jeweler makes a significant difference in quality and long-term satisfaction.

At MollyJewelryUS, each lab diamond piece is carefully designed to combine modern craftsmanship with timeless style. The brand focuses on creating jewelry that highlights the brilliance of lab grown diamonds while maintaining exceptional attention to detail.

One of the key advantages of MollyJewelryUS is its custom jewelry service. Customers can personalize their lab diamond rings, selecting stone shape, carat weight, metal type, and design elements to create a ring that perfectly reflects their style.

This customization allows couples to design unique engagement rings or meaningful jewelry pieces that feel truly personal.

In addition to custom designs, MollyJewelryUS emphasizes quality materials and expert craftsmanship, ensuring that each piece is made to last for years of everyday wear.

How to Buy Lab Grown Diamonds with Long-Term Value in Mind

If value retention matters to you, there are several strategies that can help maximize the longevity and desirability of your diamond jewelry.

Choose diamonds with excellent cut grades and strong certification. Prioritize timeless ring designs rather than overly trendy styles that may feel dated later.

Selecting a reputable jeweler with strong craftsmanship also helps ensure your jewelry remains durable and appealing over time.

Most importantly, buy a diamond that you truly love. The emotional value of a meaningful piece of jewelry often outweighs any resale considerations.

Final Thoughts

So, do lab grown diamonds hold their value?

The answer is yesβ€”but in a different way than natural diamonds. Lab diamonds typically retain a portion of their value in resale markets, often around 20–40% of the original purchase price. At the same time, their significantly lower initial cost means buyers enjoy substantial savings upfront.

For many people, the real value of lab grown diamonds lies in their beauty, affordability, and ethical production. Rather than treating them as financial investments, most buyers view them as meaningful jewelry that celebrates important moments in life.

When chosen thoughtfully and crafted with care, lab diamond jewelry can remain treasured for yearsβ€”regardless of resale price.

FAQs About Lab Grown Diamond Value

Do lab grown diamonds lose value over time?

Yes, lab grown diamonds typically depreciate after purchase because production technology continues to improve and supply increases. However, they still retain some resale value depending on quality and certification.

Lab grown diamonds are generally not considered financial investments. They are best viewed as luxury jewelry purchases that provide beauty, symbolism, and everyday enjoyment.

Yes, lab grown diamonds can be resold through online marketplaces, private buyers, or certain jewelry retailers. The resale value often depends on certification, carat size, and overall condition.

Yes. Lab grown diamonds have the same hardness (10 on the Mohs scale) and durability as natural diamonds, making them suitable for daily wear.

Introduction

From an environmental sustainability perspective, all of our items are made to order. This production approach allows us to minimize raw material waste, avoid overproduction, and ensure that each piece is crafted specifically for the customer in optimal condition.

Please note that production typically takes approximately 2–3 weeks. As each item is individually made with care and attention to detail, we believe the additional time ensures a higher level of quality and craftsmanship.

  • Delivery time = production time + shipping time
  • We mostly use USPS as our partner for domestic shipping.
  • We select different shipping carriers for international orders based on the specific circumstances of each country.
  • A tracking number will be updated after we send out the package.

Production Time

Please allow an additional 4 business days for Silver and Platinum pieces. Weekends and public holidays are not counted as business days.

  • General production time: 21 business days.
  • Expedited production time: 14/18 business days.

Shipping time

  • Domestic (United States): Delivery 3-5 business days after production finishes.
  • Other Regions: Delivery 5-10 business days after production finishes.
  • Note:Β Couriers may not deliver on weekends.Β International shipments can sometimes experience delays in customs clearance.

Shipping Fee

  • Domestic (United States):Β Free shipping.
  • Other Regions: From USD$40 to USD$100. You may use the shipping calculator on the cart page to view specific costs.
  • Note:Β If the shipping address is not accessible, we will contact you before production.

About Customs Duties

  • Duty-Free Coverage:Β We cover customs duties for packages sent to Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom, where we have partner warehouses.
  • Disclaimer On Customs Duties:Β For other regions, all customs and import duties would be charged once the package(s) arrive in the destination country. These charges, if any, must be paid by the customers. If the customers refuse to accept the package due to import duties or taxes, they will assume full responsibility for all return shipping, customs fees, and handling charges.

Need Help?

Custom Wedding Band Options
Made to Match Your Engagement Ring

Finding a wedding band that truly fits your engagement ring can be challenging. With our Custom Fit Service, any curved wedding band, enhancer wedding band, or open wedding band can be tailored to match your ring’s exact shape β€” even if your engagement ring was not purchased from us. In this guide, we’ll walk you through our services and processes in detail. Let’s get started!

Why do you need a custom wedding band?

More and more couples are choosing unique, personalized engagement rings, making flexible customization options especially important when finding the right wedding band. Ready-made bands are designed with general curves and do not account for the specific height, stone shape, prong placement, or profile of your engagement ring.

When the band does not match the engagement ring, you may experience:

* Visible gaps between the two rings

* Rubbing or collisions that can loosen stones over time

* Instability, causing the rings to twist or catch on clothing

* A mismatched appearance that does not look intentional

To solve these problems, our custom-fit wedding bands eliminate them by tailoring to the exact structure of your engagement ring, ensuring a seamless fit, comfortable wear, and a cohesive look from every angle.

Case Study 1: Customizing the Curvature of a Curved Wedding Band

In this example, the engagement ring features an organic, asymmetrical cluster design, a structure that most ready-made curved bands cannot naturally follow.

The first image clearly shows this issue: the unmatched curvature leaves a gap in the left side and causes the two rings to sit separately rather than as a cohesive set.

After applying our Custom Fit Service, the wedding band’s curve was redesigned to mirror the exact outline of the engagement ring. The result is a customized curvature that fits snugly, creating a unified, intentional look from every angle.

Case Study 2: Customizing the Gap of a Open Wedding Band

In this example, the customer selected an open wedding band to pair with a halo engagement ring. However, the original opening gap of 7.8mm was too wide for the engagement ring’s setting. This caused the two sides of the open band to sit too far apart, preventing the band from framing the center stone in a balanced, intentional way. To achieve a perfect fit, we reduced the gap from 7.8mm to 5.7mm. By customizing it, the open band now aligns seamlessly with the engagement ring’s profile and is nestled naturally around the halo setting.

Case Study 3: Customizing the Inner Spacing & Curvature of a Ring Enhancer

In this example, the customer chose a ring enhancer to frame an engagement ring with unique center setting and shank. However, the original enhancer was designed with general proportions: the inner spacing was too narrow, and the curvature did not match the engagement ring’s profile. As a result, the engagement ring could not slide in naturally, and the curvature is not the perfect one.

To create a perfect pairing, we adjusted two key elements:

1) Inner Spacing Adjustment: the gap between the two bands of the enhancer was widened so that the customer’s engagement ring could fit comfortably inside without friction or pressure on the prongs. This ensures the rings stack smoothly and remain stable during daily wear.

2) Curvature Refinement: we reshaped the curves to echo the exact outline of the engagement ring’s halo and basket. This prevents unwanted gaps and allows the enhancer to hug the ring in a balanced, symmetrical way.

How Our Custom Fit Service Works?

We make the custom-fit process easy and stress-free. Simply share photos and measurements, and we will customize a wedding band that matches your engagement ring beautifully β€” yes, without sending it in! Here’s how:

1) Share Photos and Measurements: To begin, we ask for clear photos of your engagement ring along with three specific views (front, side, and top).
We also need a few basic measurements such as: *Length & Width of the Center Stone, *Setting Height, *Band Width & Thickness

2) We Create a CAD Model of Your Engagement Ring: Using your photos and measurements, our designers build a precise digital model of your engagement ring. This allows us to see its curvature, profile, height, and overall structure accurately.

3) We Tailor the Wedding Band for a Perfect Fit: Based on the style you choose, whether it is a curved wedding band, open wedding band, or ring enhancer, we adjust every detail to match your engagement ring. This may include: 1️⃣ Refining the curvature to match your ring’s outline. 2️⃣ Adjusting the opening distance for open bands. 3️⃣ Modifying the inner spacing of enhancers to fit around the setting. 4️⃣ Matching band width or thickness when requested (extra cost might be required).

4) Modification Confirmation: We will share the customized design with you for confirmation. Once approved, we begin crafting your one-of-a-kind wedding band.

Our goal is to ensure your wedding band does more than sit beside your engagement ring β€” it should complement it flawlessly, as if it were made for your story from the beginning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to send in my engagement ring for the custom fit process?

No, you do not need to ship your ring to us. We can create a perfectly fitted wedding band using photos, three specific views, and a few simple measurements.

Yes. Our Custom Fit Service allows us to tailor any wedding band to match your engagement ring’s unique shape, height, and settingβ€”whether it’s a solitaire, halo, cluster, three-stone, unique design, or a custom ring that is not purchased from us. We tweak all the details to ensure you get a perfect wedding set.

The initial modeling stage takes 1–3 days, during which we create a digital representation of your engagement ring and customize the band design. Once you approve the design, production typically takes 2–3 weeks, the same as you selected on the product page.

Yes. Our Custom Fit Service works for any engagement ring, regardless of where it was purchased.

Depending on the design you choose, we may adjust:

  • The curvature of the band

  • The opening distance of an open band

  • The inner spacing of a ring enhancer

  • The band width or thickness (extra cost might be required if needed)

Absolutely. We will send you a detailed digital mock-up showing how your curved band aligns with your engagement ring. Production only begins after you approve the design.

The service is $100, available as an add-on option on our wedding band product pages.

This is extremely rare due to the precision of our modeling process, but if an issue arises, please be confident that we stand behind our work. Rest assured that we will review the details and offer a solution based on the specific situation.

Yes. In many cases, a straight band can be reshaped with a custom curvature to match your engagement ring. Feel free to contact us if you have any customization ideas.

Yes, we can. In addition to our Custom Fit Service, which tailors a wedding band specifically to your engagement ring, we can create custom wedding band designs that are not listed on our site. Feel free to contact us if you are interested in working with us for something special!

Yes. We can customize men’s wedding rings to complement women’s engagement rings or wedding bands. Whether you want both rings to share matching silhouettes, profiles, design elements, or finishes, we can tailor the men’s band to create a coordinated and cohesive set that feels connected while still reflecting each person’s style.

1. Getting Started:

Online shopping offers a wide variety of choices, but when it comes to purchasing rings, it can be trickyβ€”you can’t be certain of the fit without trying it on!

At MollyJewelryUS, we completely understand your concerns, which is why we’ve created this guide to make your decision easier.

Please take the time to carefully review this guide, as all of our rings are made to order, and a 35% restocking fee applies to exchanges and refunds.

Now, let’s walk you through the measurement process!

2. Key Points to Know About Ring Sizes:

1) Different Bandwidth Affects The Wearing Experience

  • The Bandwidth We Commonly Use: We usually use a 1.4 to 2mm bandwidth for our women’s rings, which can be considered Narrow Bands. Please check the specific bandwidth in the product description section.
  • Narrow Bands May Feel Larger: For rings with a narrower width, some customers may find that the sizes feel larger than expected. This is because narrow bands apply less pressure on the finger, making them feel looser when worn.
  • Wider Bands and Enhancer Bands May Feel Snugger: A ring with a wide band usually feels tighter than its actual size because it covers a larger area of the finger. Therefore, if you choose a wider ring (bigger than 2mm) or enhancer band (also known as a ring guard or ring jacket), then you may need to choose a quarter or half size larger than the narrower ring to ensure comfort.
  • Adjusting for a Perfect Fit: Please know the bandwidth affecting the wearing experience before your purchase to ensure that you get the right size.

2) Resizing Considerations

  • Resizing Limitations: Not all rings can be resized easily. Rings with intricate designs, and eternity bands with stones all around may have limited resizing options. It’s important to choose the correct size from the start if you’re considering these styles.
  • Potential Risks of Resizing: Resizing can sometimes weaken the structural integrity of a ring, especially if it’s adjusted significantly. For rings with side stones, resizing can also affect the setting of the stones and can cause them to fall out easily.
  • Alternatives to Resizing: If resizing isn’t an option, there are alternatives like using sizing beads, ring guards, or exchanging the ring for the correct size if possible. These solutions can help achieve a better fit without compromising the ring’s design or structure.

3. How To Determine Ring Size?

1) Measure A existing rings

* If you know there is a ring that fits perfectly, but you are not sure about its size: Measure the inside diameter and the bandwidth by placing a ruler either on top of the ring or underneath it.

* Please send us some photos according to the following pictures, and we will assist you in choosing the correct size!

2) Use a ring size gauge to find out the perfect size

* If you don’t know the size at all, this would be the best way to take your measurements! Since it’s metallic, it more closely resembles the feeling of wearing a ring, and you can easily tell the size by checking the labels. If you want to be foolproof, you can also take a photo according to Method 1, and send it to us.

3) Use a ring sizer for the measurement

* Please don’t snap it too tightly or loosely, makeΒ sure it can turn around on yourΒ finger,Β but there are no gaps. Sending us a picture of wearing it on your finger would be helpful for the judgment.

4) Get sizing at your local jeweler

It’s a good idea to get sized at a nearby jeweler! However, please ask them about the bandwidth they usually use. Just like mentioned at the beginning, a ring with a narrow band will fit slightly larger on the same size, while a ring with a wider band will fit more snugly. The reasoning is simple: the more metal on your finger, the more space it takes up and the tighter it will fit.

5) Measure the circumference of The finger

Unlike metal or plastic, paper strips and thread are thicker and more flexible. As a result, they can create a slight bulge or slack when wrapped around the finger, leading to a measurement slightly larger than the actual size.

Though this way is simple and convenient, it is usually used as a secondary insight, as it may not provide the same accuracy as professional ring sizing tools.

Notice:Β Please measure multiple times to ensure errors are minimized.Β Additionally, please let us know your/her height and weight as a reference if you intend to use this method.

*Use a strip of paper, a piece of string, or a measuring tape around your finger and mark the overlap. Then, take it off, make it straight, and measure from the beginning to the overlap.

Please send us a photo of the measuring strip or string.

*Use a strip of paper or a piece of string around your finger and mark the overlap. Then, take it off, make sure it is straight, and measure from the beginning to the overlap.

Please send us a photo of the measuring strip or string.

In conclusion: If you are measuring at home, sending us pictures of your measuring process is a very important step.Β 

If you need any assistance, please get in touch with us at service@mollyjewelryus.com

4. Sizing & Design Tips

  • For ring sizes smaller than 4US
    Rings with smaller circumferences have tighter curvature, which can put extra stress on the side settings and make side stones more prone to loosening over time.
    We recommend choosing designs with fewer or smaller side stones to ensure long-lasting durability and comfort.

  • For ring sizes bigger than 9US
    Larger rings naturally experience greater structural stress when worn, as the metal band spans a wider circle and endures more bending force during daily wear.
    To maintain proper strength and balance, we suggest choosing styles with a band thickness of at least 1.6 mm. If you notice that the thickness listed on our product page does not meet this specification, feel free to contact us for customization.

RING SIZE CHART