Are Lab Grown Diamonds The Future of Engagement Rings?

Welcome back, diamond lovers!
This is Bonnie from By Bonnie Jewelry, where I talk about all things sparkle, craftsmanship, and timeless design with heart. Today we’re tackling a hot topic: Are lab grown diamonds truly the future of jewelry? Ooooh, let’s go there.

What “S & M” REALLY Means in Jewelry

Before we dive in, let me set the tone. I’m calling this blog: S & M. Not what you think, babe—get your mind out of the gutter. In jewelry, S & M stands for Style, Sustainability, Smart Spending, and Modern, Mindful, Meaningful. Yes. Let’s talk about why this conversation isn’t just about science or cost—it’s about how jewelry fits into our lives today.

For centuries, natural diamonds were the default. Then came moissanite, and eventually, lab grown diamonds—sending ripples across the entire industry. Suddenly, it was Team Natural vs. Team Lab Grown, like some glittery battle royale. But let’s be real. This isn’t a war. It’s progress. And we love progress. We love options. We love choosing what works best for us. That’s what jewelry should be about.

Now, lab grown diamonds check a lot of boxes. People today want jewelry that reflects their style, aligns with their values, and respects their budget. It’s not just about the bling—it’s about the why behind the bling. Sustainability matters. So does spending smart. And for many, that means skipping the big natural stone in favor of something lab grown that’s still beautiful, ethical, and budget-friendly.

How We Got Here: The Evolution of Diamonds

But hold up—there’s another side to this story. While lab grown diamonds are getting a lot of love, I’m also seeing a surprising trend in the other direction. Clients are coming to me saying, “Bonnie, everyone has these massive lab grown rocks. I want something that feels more personal. More subtle. More me.” I love that. 

There’s a return to natural diamonds in smaller carat sizes, around 1 to 1.5 carats. There’s elegance in simplicity. There’s beauty in restraint. And there’s power in choosing what you love, not what’s trending.

And let me remind you—jewelry is not just about diamonds. I’m literally wearing pink sapphire as I type this. I just finished a brand-new, daintier version of my signature pink sapphire ring (hasn’t even launched yet!) and it is everything. Say YES if you want a peek. Because color is where it’s at. I’m seeing more people crave color diamonds, colored gemstones, and unexpected shapes. 

Think yellow diamonds, soft greens, sapphires in blue and blush, all paired with buttery gold and a little chunk in the setting. Yes, please.

Lab Grown: The Future of Jewelry?

So, back to our original question: Are lab grown diamonds the future of jewelry? The answer is yes… and no. Yes, because they give people more control, more value, and more conscious options. And no, because they’re not the only future. Some people are rediscovering natural diamonds. Others are falling in love with color. And let’s not forget—there’s a whole world of jewelry beyond just what sits in the center of the ring.

In the end, it all comes down to what feels modern, mindful, and meaningful to you. That’s what I’m all about here. Helping you find the piece that fits your story—not someone else’s.

So what do you think? Are we overthinking diamond types when we should be focusing on meaning and joy? Leave me your thoughts below. And if you want more real talk on trends, diamonds, and design, come hang out with me on Instagram @ByBonnieJewelry. I’m always cooking up something new.