Lab Diamond vs. Gemstone Anniversary Bands: Which One Should You Buy?
Anniversary bands are pieces of jewelry typically given to celebrate momentous crossroads in a marriage, such as a 10th, 20th, or 50th anniversary. The rings feature diamonds or other gemstones, typically in a single row or a more intricate design. These gorgeous rings symbolize the enduring love and commitment between partners.
You're in the beginning stages of browsing for anniversary bands - how do you choose between lab diamonds or gemstone styles? We'll compare both lab diamond and gemstone anniversary bands so you can make an educated decision and get a stunning ring that you absolutely adore.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Lab Diamond Anniversary Bands
Lab diamonds symbolize strength, love and are often incorporated into anniversary bands because they are beautiful and sparkling.
Definition and Benefits
Lab diamonds share the same optical, physical, and chemical properties as mined diamonds. They also have some added benefits, such as being environmentally friendly and cost-effective. More men and women are choosing stones that represent values that are important to them.
Appearance and Durability
Lab diamonds are a 10 on the Mohs hardness scale - just like mined diamonds - so they're durable, brilliant, and will last a lifetime. Diamonds are a popular choice for anniversary jewelry because they're highly durable and resistant to scratching, making them ideal for everyday wear.
Customization and Options
Within lab diamonds, you have plenty of options for the shapes, overall sizes, and settings. You can choose one diamond cut or a couple of different shapes for a unique look. The sizes of the diamonds impact the overall total carat weight of your ring.
Anniversary rings' settings vary - some can be more traditional, while others can be more modern. You also have the option of creating a completely custom anniversary band to get exactly what you want. A personalized ring makes the band even more special.
Price Point
Lab diamonds are created in a controlled environment, eliminating expensive mining processes and complex supply chain steps. This savings is passed along to consumers, explaining why lab diamonds are more affordable than mined diamonds. You have thousands of lab diamond options, so you're sure to find stones that fit your budget and quality preferences.
Gemstone Anniversary Bands
Gemstone anniversary bands typically feature colored stones, such as sapphires, rubies, and emeralds. Some are mixed with diamonds, while others feature only colored gemstones.
Variety and Meaning
Different gemstones like sapphires, rubies, and emeralds each have unique properties and interesting histories. Sapphires, known for their stunning blue hues, are symbols of wisdom, loyalty, and nobility. Historically, they were believed to protect their wearers from envy and harm. Rubies, with their vibrant red color, represent love, passion, and courage. They've been associated with royalty and thought to bring good fortune. Emeralds, renowned for their deep green shades, symbolize rebirth, fertility, and love. In ancient times, they were believed to have healing powers and were worn by Egyptian pharaohs as talismans.
Appearance and Durability
The hue of colored gemstones is important, but it's also noteworthy to mention that you'll see different shades of sapphires, rubies, and emeralds. Quality levels vary, so look for stones that look cohesive in the anniversary ring. While colored gemstones are durable, their hardness isn't a 10 like diamonds, so you'll want to know the care needed for your particular gemstones. Sapphires and rubies have a hardness of 9. They are very durable and can withstand daily wear. Cleansing them with soapy water and a soft-bristled brush is generally sufficient. With a hardness of 7.5-8, emeralds are relatively hard but can be brittle due to internal fractures. They need mild cleaning with warm water and a soft cloth, avoiding harsh chemicals and ultrasonic cleaners, which can damage the stone.
Customization and Options
You'll see anniversary bands that have different colored gemstones, monochromatic stones, or diamonds and gemstones. The settings, cuts, and sizes of the stones vary as well. You also have the creative freedom to design a ring that incorporates the stones that you want. If a gemstone carries meaning, such as a birthstone or favorite color, you can create a ring that includes the stones you want.
Price Point
The price points for colored gemstones vary depending on the type of stone, quality level, and origin. Prices vary from hundreds to several thousand dollars per carat. Stones with fewer visible inclusions and vibrant color will cost more.
Factors to Consider When Choosing
Now that you know more about lab diamond and gemstone anniversary rings, let's review some of the considerations that often get overlooked.
Personal Preference and Style
If you're choosing an anniversary ring as a gift, you'll want to consider their personal taste and style. The ring should feel like they picked it out themselves, so it'll get years of wear. Deciding between lab diamonds and gemstones is up to you and the recipient. Diamonds are known for their timeless elegance and versatility, making them a popular choice for anniversary bands. Their clear brilliance complements any outfit or occasion, ensuring they remain stylish over time. Colored gemstones offer a pop of color to your ring but aren't as versatile as diamonds.
Lifestyle and Durability
Another consideration is the wearer's lifestyle. For more active people, you'll want a durable ring with set stones that will last. Smaller stones and settings like channel settings could work better for active lifestyles than larger stones with prong settings.
Budget
It's important to consider your budget as well. You'll want to find a way to balance quality with the cost. Choosing stones like lab diamonds can help you stretch your budget so you can get a higher-quality ring at a more affordable price.
Conclusion
Lab diamonds offer a timeless, classic look that's perfect for an anniversary ring. If you want some color, mix lab diamonds with colored gemstones or go with a ring with all colored stones. Deciding between the two is a personal decision based on taste, budget, and lifestyle. Browse different rings to see the available choices to choose one that mirrors your love, commitment, and your partner's personal style.
