We’ll explain the process, from start to finish. Read from top to bottom to understand why lab diamonds are gaining in popularity over natural diamonds in engagement rings!

What exactly are lab diamonds?

Lab grown diamonds, sometimes called synthetic diamonds, are a sustainable, affordable, and ethically sourced alternative to natural diamonds. They’re a popular stone for building your dream engagement ring, necklace, bracelet, or other piece of jewelry.

But are they “real diamonds?”

According to the Federal Trade Commission, synthetic diamonds are exactly the same as natural diamonds mined from the earth. They have the same chemical and optical properties as their natural diamond counterparts.

Lab diamonds also follow the 4Cs – cut, color, clarity and carat. But the biggest difference between a lab and a mined diamond isn’t the growth process—it’s in the price! High-quality diamonds grown in a lab with cutting-edge technology are generally 70-80% less than their mined natural diamond counterparts!

Lab-Grown Diamonds: How Jewelers Make Them

Jewelers generall produce Lab grown diamonds with two methods: chemical vapor deposition (CVD) or extreme pressure, high-temperature (HPHT) methods. Let’s explore both.

What is Chemical Vapor Deposition

Jewelers use CVD (Chemical Vapor Deposition) to grow diamonds with microwave plasma technology and generally makes the highest-quality, grown diamond. Its properties are equal to diamonds mined from the earth. Jewelers formulate these diamonds in a highly-controlled environment, using advanced technical processes that mimic the natural method of diamonds found in the earth.

The CVD Process

In the CVD grown diamond process, jewelers heat a small slice of pure diamond seed is to around 800°C in a sealed container. Then, they fill it with other carbon-rich gases, such as methane. Microwaves, lasers and other devices are then used to ionize the gasses and create plasma. The breakdown of the gasses by ionization allows the carbon to merge with the diamond seed. This grows the diamond layer by layer.

Fun fact the CVD process is very similar to how interstellar gas clouds produce diamonds. Super cool, huh! This procedure was developed in the 1980s and is widely viewed as the less expensive way to make lab diamonds. It also uses less energy than the HPHT method.

What is the High Pressure High Temperature Method (HPHT) Process?

The high-pressure, high-temperature (HPHT) diamond production process was first developed for industrial use in the 1950s. Different industries used it to make drill bits and tooling. 

While most commonly used for creating new lab grown diamonds, jewelers sometimes also treat mined diamonds using the HPHT procedure. This improves their clarity and color.

The HPHT method was created to copy the temperature and pressures of the earth’s interior. That’s where natural diamond crystals develop over billions of years! But instead of the roughly 1-3 billion years it takes for mined diamonds to form, the HPHT technique takes just a few weeks.

The HPHT Process

First, in the HPHT process, jewelers place a pure, solid carbon source (usually a diamond seed) into a growth chamber. Then, it’s subjected to both high pressure and high temperature for several days. Then, as the carbon melts, a diamond forms around the seed until a full-sized gem develops.

Jewelers sometimes use HPHT to improve the color of both mined or lab-grown diamonds created under the CVD process.

Can A Jeweler Tell The Difference Between A Lab Diamond And A Mined Diamond?

Not without special equipment that can tell with about 80% accuracy! It’s impossible for a jeweler to tell the difference between a lab and mined diamond by just looking at it.

After growth, lab grown diamonds will pass all of the traditional gemological tests for diamonds, such hardness, refractive index and thermal conductivity. These tests identify diamonds based on their unique properties.

These include the ability to scratch most any other material (hardness) and their capacity to conduct heat.

Lab Diamond Certification

Every lab diamond of a certain size (usually .40ct and up) should be graded by a reputable, independent diamond grading lab.

For instance, that might be the Gem Certification and Assurance Lab (GCAL), Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the International Gemological Institute (IGI).

These labs are highly respected in the jewelry industry, and are known for their consistency and unbiased diamond grading systems. With this certification, a lab diamond customer can be assured that their gemstone will is authentic. It will display the same physical, chemical, and optical characteristics as mined diamonds.

Why Chose A Grown Diamond?

The most common reason people are choosing lab diamonds over mined is simple. They get so much more diamond for their money!

Plus, they can feel confident that a lab diamond is conflict free and sustainably sourced. In fact, lab diamonds produced from reputable labs (like the ones we use at Scott’s) adhere to strict eco-friendly guidelines. They utilize solar power, and pay fair wages to their workers.

At the same time, these diamonds are also cost-effective. It’s a win/win for everyone!

How Are Lab Grown Diamonds Made: FAQs

What is the process for making lab grown diamonds?

Jewelers use two main methods to grow lab-grown diamonds: High Pressure, High Temperature (HPHT) or Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD). Both processes replicate natural diamond formation by creating ideal conditions for carbon to crystallize into a diamond.

What is the HPHT process for growing diamonds?

The HPHT method uses intense heat and pressure to mimic natural conditions deep within the Earth. First, jewelers place a diamond seed in carbon. Then, as temperatures and pressures rise, the carbon forms into a diamond crystal.

How does the CVD method grow diamonds?

In the CVD process, carbon-rich gases are heated in a chamber with a diamond seed. Over time, the gases break down, allowing carbon atoms to bond layer by layer, forming a diamond over time.

How long does it take to grow a lab-grown diamond?

It typically takes between a few weeks to a month to grow a lab-grown diamond. It depends on the size and quality being cultivated.

Can you tell the difference between lab-grown and natural diamonds?

Without specialized equipment, lab-grown and natural diamonds are visually indistinguishable. However, experts can detect the subtle growth patterns unique to lab-grown diamonds.

Ready To Meet the Lab Grown Diamond of Your Dreams?

Book a one-on-one design consultation and let us help you create a custom piece as unique as your love story. Our expert designers will guide you through every step, from selecting your perfect lab-grown diamond to crafting a stunning, one-of-a-kind engagement ring or jewelry piece.

Call us at 614-336-4111 or schedule your appointment online to get started on your custom design!

Resetting a ring is the perfect way to bring those pieces out of the jewelry box and into something one-of-a-kind. We have seen a ton of restyles in 24 years, but here are 10 reset fine stone and diamond engagement ring before & afters that you just HAVE to see!

1. A One-of-a-Kind Pendant

The original diamond from mom’s engagement ring became part of a gorgeous, two-stone pendant. Adding a pop of color with tanzanite lets the heirloom diamond shine, especially in the sleek white gold setting. Now the stone and all it’s memories can live close to the heart!

2. A Restyled Rose Gold Wedding Band

J. brought in two rings that were wearing thin and needed a refresh, along with some other, small, additional diamonds. We came up with this wider wedding band featuring a delicate, open vine style center nestled between 14k white gold bands.

Using her larger center stone and side accents, we created something unique and strong enough for everyday wear. She loved it!

3. The Perfect Good Luck Charm

This princess cut diamond ring from a previous wedding ring had it’s lucky day as the center of this cool, custom horse shoe style ring! Setting fancy cut stones on their side like this princess cut diamond can give your ring a super modern feel, with only a simple change.

4. A Pear Shaped Diamond that Makes a Statement

This pear shaped diamond took on a whole new life in this wedding ring upgrade! The wide band used accent diamonds from old, unworn jewelry in a split design that helps balance out the top.

Reusing an old piece of jewelry is a great way to repurpose earrings, random accent stones from a band, or stones from a pendant, creating a new jewelry story.

5. This Unique Take on a Three Stone Ring

This three stone ring started as a few separate pieces from our customer’s family. The center stone from her mother, the top and bottom from both of her grandmothers.

S wanted to combine these diamonds into one piece, without leaning into the traditional three stone engagement ring style. By using a vertical layout, this ring goes from bridal and classic to a modern statement piece!

6. A Piece Combining Family History

This ring came to life from multiple family pieces! We blended the diamonds from two old wedding rings and a few diamond earrings to create this one-of-kind, custom, right hand ring. Another great example of a seamless design made from a collection of heirloom pieces.

7. This Criss Cross Statement Ring

This cool, criss cross design is a true showstopper! The cascade design of this old ring was straight out of the 80’s, but the diamonds were still in great shape.

We pulled this ring back into the future with a more modern setting, and added a small round diamond that belonged to her grandmother. It turned out spectacular! As a bonus, the squared design of this ring keeps it from turning on her finger, too.

8. Tennis Bracelet Made Into A Pave Band

This broken, outdated tennis bracelet gave us so many diamonds to work with that our options were truly endless. We made the switch from yellow to white gold and created a beautiful pave diamond wedding band from all those heirloom stones.

Plus, we recycled the old gold towards the price of the new piece. It was a win/win for everyone!

9. From an Unworn Ring to a Favorite Necklace

Rings not your style? They weren’t our customer’s style, either. She loved the three stone look of her wedding set, but felt like she never wore them (she works with her hands, and didn’t want them to get damaged).

So, we converted them to an amazing custom necklace that mimicked her rings with center stones and diamond accent stones, but that she could wear more comfortably. (Hint, this is a great way to wear your original bridal set after a well-deserved upgrade!)

10. Combining Old Jewelry to Create Something Special

This necklace and stick pin wasn’t worn anymore, so we combined into something more in line with our customer’s style. Keeping the piece two-tone makes it super wearable too. Also: two tone jewelry is really trending this fall!

Don’t feel boxed in with jewelry design. Heirloom pieces can be anything with enough imagination.

Ready to Reset Your Original Engagement Ring Into Something You Love?

The moral of the story is that old jewelry doesn’t have to sit in a jewelry box anymore. With a little imagination, a reputable jeweler, and Scott’s cool custom design technology, old jewelry can be reset into new engagement rings, filled with history and personality!

We hope you were inspired with these 10 reset engagement ring before and afters that you just HAVE to see!

Want to see what you can do? Set up your custom appointment (in person or via ZOOM)!

Stud Earrings

A staple pair of studs can go with anything and there are SO many options! Studs come in all shapes and sizes and there is a pair to fit every style. Pearl studs are trending but have always been a classic!

A gold ball stud can match anything, and diamond studs are more affordable than ever with lab grown diamonds. Studs are the perfect earring for everyday and can be mixed and matched endlessly with everything in your jewelry wardrobe.

Hoop Earrings

When your studs aren’t the perfect fit, a classic hoop is a great option! Hoops are timeless staple because they can go with any look. Elevate jeans and a tee, or pair them with a little black dress. The options with hoops are endless in size and shape, even with stones and fun details to add personality.

Classic Chain Necklace

Chain necklaces are so flexible to style and can be worn with anything. Wear a chain by itself, or layer with other chains or a pendant to create a whole new look.

They come in so many styles and lengths that there truly is a chain for every occasion. Not a fan of the plain chain look? Try one with a fun detail like this pearl and paperclip style necklace!

Gemstone Pendants

A pendant is a great way to add a personal touch to your outfit. A pendant can add some sparkle with a gorgeous lab grown diamond, add a pop of color with a gemstone in your birthstone or favorite color, or can be a timeless classic like a strand of pearls. Pendants can also be a great way to restyle an old piece you no longer wear into something you can wear everyday.

A Bracelet With Some Bling!

A fun bracelet can add a touch of sparkle and bling to any look. Bracelets can dress up a casual outfit or even stack several together to create a fun, layered look. Simple chains, diamond tennis bracelets, or funky bangles – the options are endless.

How to Style Your Jewelry for Different Occasions

Jewelry can transform your outfit, making it suitable for various occasions. Here are some tips on how to style your essential pieces:

Styling Jewelry For Work

Opt for simple and elegant pieces like stud earrings, a classic chain necklace, and a minimalistic bracelet. These pieces add a touch of sophistication without being too flashy.

Styling Jewelry For a Night Out

Elevate your look with bold hoop earrings, a statement pendant, and a stack of sparkling bracelets. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different styles and textures.

Styling Jewelry For Casual Outings

Keep it chic yet casual with a pair of versatile hoops, a layered chain necklace, and a fun, colorful bracelet. These pieces add personality to your everyday look without overwhelming it.

Jewelry Care Tips

Taking care of your jewelry ensures it stays beautiful and lasts longer. Here are some tips:

#1 – Store You Jewelry Properly

Keep your jewelry in a cool, dry place. Use individual pouches or compartments to prevent pieces from scratching each other.

#2 – Avoid Chemicals

Remove your jewelry before applying lotions, perfumes, or engaging in activities that involve harsh chemicals.

#3 – Regularly Clean Your Jewelry

Clean your jewelry regularly to maintain its shine. Use appropriate cleaning methods based on the material and gemstones.

Ready To Design Your Next Jewelry Wardrobe Staple?

Finding staples that match your style is the first step in building your jewelry wardrobe. Like the LBD, signature jewelry pieces are essential for everyday wear, and always make great gifts. Find your new favorite pieces or design them yourself with us today.

Sometimes, all it takes to “re-do your I-do” is a few minor updates. Here are ten creative ideas for redesigning wedding rings in Dublin to get you started!

Creative Ideas For Redesigning Wedding Rings

1. Upgrade your center stone to a lab diamond.

For those who’ve had their rings for a while, chances are your center stone is a traditional mined diamond, likely on the smaller side. But now that lab diamonds are readily available and super affordable—like 80-90% less than mined diamonds—you can upgrade your center stone to something bigger!

Lab grown diamonds are exactly the same optically, chemically and physically to diamonds mined from the earth. They’re also an ethically responsible and sustainable option to mined diamonds.

2. Add some colored gemstones.

Jazz up your wedding ring with some beautiful, colored gemstones! Maybe incorporate your children’s birthstones into your wedding ring redesign, or just your favorite color. But replacing a few diamonds in your band with color will definitely make your ring unique.

3. Add a custom diamond halo.

If your center diamond is super sentimental to you, then enhance it with a custom diamond halo. A custom halo is made to fit perfectly around your stone, without any gaps, and it’s designed to makes your diamond appear larger.

4. Add a family ring.

Wedding ring styles are personal, and replacing your original band with a family ring—such as one from a loved one—can symbolize legacy and love. A simple gold or diamond band can easily be sized and worn next to the original wedding set, giving a visual reminder of love and legacy.

5. Add a matching wedding band.

Boost your set’s impact by adding a matching wedding band to the opposite side as part of your wedding ring redesign. With CAD technology, we can recreate the style of your original band, giving you a balanced, symmetrical look.

6. Add contrasting wedding bands.

If your ring is all one color, add contrast by framing it with a band in a different metal, like a yellow gold rope band alongside white gold. For a personal touch, repurpose diamonds from inherited jewelry to craft unique bands that add depth and elegance to your story. 

Bingo—you’ve just added to your beautiful jewelry story!

7. Stack up a new band.

Sometimes, simply adding a new band to your existing wedding ring makes a huge impact. Having different style bands that mark milestones in your life is like adding a chapter to your story.

Maybe add a straight diamond anniversary band one year. Or stack a different colored gold band to signify a child’s birth – like a plain, 14k rose gold band for a girl, and a plain, 14k white gold band for a boy.

Ever wanted to reset your engagement ring? 

8. Add a custom engraving.

Personalize your wedding ring with a custom engraving that adds a unique touch of meaning. From your wedding date to a special phrase or initials, engraving transforms your ring into a one-of-a-kind keepsake. This subtle detail is perfect for honoring the special moments and sentiments you share, making your ring truly yours.

9. Replace your diamond with a colored gemstone.

Who doesn’t need more color in their life? Replacing your diamond with a colored gemstone is an easy idea for redesigning your wedding ring. Choose a gemstone that can handle daily wear (it doesn’t have to be a diamond!) For instance, sapphires are very hard AND come in all colors of the rainbow. 

10. Start from scratch and redesign it!

Sometimes, a diamond wedding set has simply worn out. It happens. But with CAD technology, you can easily start from scratch and redesign your ring by reusing all of your stones (or adding more).

Redesigning Wedding Rings: FAQs

How long does it take to redesign a wedding ring?

The redesign process typically takes 4-6 weeks, depending on the complexity of the design and any customization, like engraving.

What is the cost of redesigning a wedding ring?

Costs vary based on the design and materials used, but our team can provide an estimate once we discuss your ideas and preferences.

Can I add new stones or metals to my existing ring?

Yes, we can add diamonds, colored gemstones, or contrasting metals to enhance your ring’s look and make it more unique.

Will redesigning my ring affect its durability?

Not at all. In fact, redesigning can make your ring more durable by updating settings and worn areas with stronger materials.

Can I see what the redesign will look like before committing?

Yes, we offer a digital rendering and 3D model of your design, so you’ll see exactly how it will look before it’s created.

Start Redesigning Your Wedding Ring Today

Don’t know where to start? We’ll help you find your style, create pictures of the new look and create a 3D printed model of the wedding ring before it’s cast so you can make any changes before it’s cast into gold or platinum.

We use CAD (computer aided design) technology, 3D printers, and our in-store design team with over 95 years of jewelry experience to offer our customers tons of ideas to help them revamp their wedding ring.

Updating your wedding ring doesn’t have to be expensive, and in fact, it’s fun… at Scott’s! Book an appointment today and let’s bring your dream ring to life.

Are Lab Grown Diamonds Sustainable?

Yes, and it’s probably the most common reason our customers are choosing lab grown diamonds over mined diamonds.

For a little background, lab grown, or man made diamonds, are grown in laboratories using processes that duplicate the conditions under which diamonds naturally develop. Therefore, they are identical to mined diamonds, chemically, optically, and physically, which is why the Federal Trade Commission has said a diamond is a diamond whether it’s grown in a lab or dug out of a mine.

In fact, the FTC no longer defines a diamond by using the term ‘natural’ because it is now possible to create lab diamonds that are exactly the same as mined diamonds. It’s essentially pure carbon crystalized in the isometric cubic system.

Lab grown diamonds also have big advantages on their environmental impact, such as less CO2 emissions and no soil being dug up in enormous amounts. The labs that we use also have invested in solar energy to power their equipment, so their carbon footprint is even smaller! So yes, sustainable engagement rings ARE possible!

Conflict Free Diamonds: The Importance to Our Customers

Up until a year ago, all lab grown diamonds were considered conflict free. But unfortunately, Russia, who has 1/3 of the worlds’ mined diamonds, got into the lab game to help fund their conflicts.

The United States has placed sanctions on Russia for importing mined diamonds, but Russia has gotten around these sanctions by shipping their uncut stones to other countries. Hopefully, this ‘work-around’ will be stopped soon.

Scott’s is very diligent when it comes to sourcing all of the diamonds that we sell. As a 4th generation jeweler, we have curated a list of suppliers for all of our gold, gemstones, and diamonds. Being conflict-free is the number one question we ask before placing an order.

Lab Grown Diamonds Price: A Huge Factor

After sustainability, price is probably the main reason our customers are choosing lab grown diamonds over mined diamonds, and who can blame them! Lab diamonds generally cost 70-90% less. That. Is. Huge!

With all of the added expenses that today’s young people are faced with (student loans!), being able to chose an affordable engagement ring is a welcomed relief.

In fact, most of our customers are able to choose a bigger, better quality, trendy engagement ring style AND stay under their budget. Which brings us to the next point…

More Budget for Fun and Custom Engagement Rings

With these savings, our customers are opting for personalized details in their custom engagement rings.

Designing that special ring is truly exciting, especially when you can incorporate elements like hidden halos, diamond pave bands, or pops of color in the overall design. And the best part? Using small lab diamonds adds an extra layer of charm and uniqueness. It’s these details that make the process so enjoyable!

Since we use CAD (computer aided design) and 3D printers, our customers are part of the design process, and the possibilities are endless!

Engagement Ring Insurance: Lab Diamonds Cost Less

Many people don’t think about this, but insuring their lab diamond engagement ring will cost them less than a mined diamond ring.

Actually, because insurance is kind of pricey, many people simply DON’T cover their engagement and wedding rings against loss, and then they regret it.

We’ve found that our customers can generally insure their custom lab grown diamond solitaire ring for about $50 a year, compared to over $250 a year for a comparable mined ring. That’s a lot of savings!

Affordable, Sustainable, and Conflict Free: Lab Grown Diamond Rings are Here to Stay

Discover the brilliant, affordable, and sustainable options that lab grown diamond rings offer! After you pick out the gem that “winks at you,” as Grandpa used to say, we’ll help you craft the perfect custom engagement ring to capture your love perfectly!

While most jewelry gifts are filled with significance, such as the cross pendant your grandmother gave you for your First Communion or the opal ring gifted by your parents at graduation, an engagement ring is considered the biggest deal.

So how do you drop engagement ring hints to make sure your partner knows what style you want? We’ll help you out with that, hang tight.

Do Couples Pick Wedding Rings Together?

This is a common question that a lot of people have, and the answer is different for everyone. Long answer short, most do, or at least most start the process together, but many leave the final pick-up to the propose-er.

In fact, at Scott’s Custom Jewelers, we’re known to bend the truth a little by saying the custom engagement ring they’ve designed is taking more time than we originally thought, in order to throw off the bride and make the proposal a surprise. It’s all good though, the brides forgive us.

But, if you think your partner wants to pick out the ring on their own, we have ways to nonchalantly tell them what you want in an engagement ring.

The 4Cs Of Diamonds

First, it’s good to get some diamond education.

In the 1940s, Robert M. Shipley, the founder of GIA, Gemological Institute of America, used the term 4Cs to help his students remember the four main factors that characterize a diamond: Color, clarity, cut and carat weight. Today, the 4Cs apply to both mined diamonds and the new, lab grown diamonds.

• Color – The diamond color characteristic is based on the absence of color. A chemically pure and structurally perfect diamond has no hue, like a drop of pure water. GIA’s D-to-Z diamond color-grading system measures the degree of colorlessness of a stone.
• Clarity – Evaluating clarity means determining the number, size, nature, and position of both internal and external marks or blemishes in a diamond, as well as how these affect the overall appearance of the stone. If you are trying to determine what is the best clarity for a diamond, remember that no diamond is perfectly pure. But the closer it comes to purity, the better its clarity.
• Cut – We often think of a diamond’s cut as it’s shape (round, radiant, oval, marquise, pear), but what cut actually means is how well a diamond’s facets, or cuttings, interact with light. Precise cutting is required to fashion a stone so its proportions, symmetry and polish deliver the best return of light.
• Carat – A carat measures how much a diamond weighs. A metric “carat” is defined as 200 milligrams. Each carat is subdivided into 100 ‘points.’ This allows very precise measurements to the hundredth decimal place. A jeweler may describe the weight of a diamond below one carat by its ‘points’ alone. For instance, they may refer to a diamond that weighs 0.25 carats as a ‘twenty-five pointer.’ Diamond weights greater than one carat are expressed in carats and decimals. A 1.08 carat stone would be described as ‘one point oh eight carats.’

While the Cs are important, remember that a diamond’s beauty is very subjective. Everyone’s eyes are different, and while one person may be sensitive to a diamond’s color, another may be influenced by it’s clarity.

Grandpa used to say, “pick the diamond that winks at you,” and we still use that today!

Engagement Ring Hints

Dropping subtle hints about the perfect engagement ring can be difficult. We’re here to help you explore creative ways to make sure your dreams are heard, even if some ideas may feel a bit cheesy.

The Power Of Pinterest

Who doesn’t love a good Pinterest board? When you need to drop some engagement ring hints, making a Pinterest board really helps.

At Scott’s, not only do we create our own Pinterest boards for our customers, but we also tell our ring shoppers to peek at their partner’s board to see their style!

It’s great if you create a board with an obvious title, like ‘Engagement Ring Ideas.’ But if you don’t want to be too transparent, make sure the heading is easy to find, like ‘My Favorite Rings’ or ‘Someday…’

Window Shopping At Scott’s Custom Jewelers

Next time you go out, casually mention that you need to get your jewelry checked, then stop by Scott’s for a free cleaning. Make sure to call us prior for a heads up!

This is a perfect time to window shop the cool pieces we have in stock, or even peruse the thousands of custom engagement ring designs that scroll on our six big television screens. Be sure to point out your favorites – we’ll take the hint and make notes in your files!

You can even drool over the case of beautiful, lab grown diamonds that we have on hand and show them your favorite shape.

We’ll suggest getting your ring finger sized too while you’re there, just in case (wink wink).

Tag Them On Social Media Sites

Oh social media – you’ve got to love it! It’s a great way to give hints on what you’d like your future engagement ring to look like!

How? Try tagging your partner on celebrity engagement posts with comments like, ‘Wow, that’s a huge diamond! I would only want a 2 ct. size in that shape!’ Or maybe sharing an Instagram story when your best girlfriend gets engaged, saying, ‘I love her ring – yellow gold is my favorite, too!’

Email Or Text Funny Memes And Reels

There are so many hilarious reels of proposals that don’t quite hit the mark, or funny memes on engagement ring fails. Maybe send a couple to your partner with some well-placed comments like, ‘OMG – how embarrassing that the ring was too small when he proposed – BTW, I’m a size 6…’ or ‘I can’t believe she said she hated marquise-shaped diamonds! That is my absolute favorite shape!’

Maybe not subtle, but at least you won’t end up as a reel fail!

When All Else Fails, Hijack Their Phone!

Some say this isn’t true, but one time I said “I love cat toys, cat toys are the best. Where can I find cat toys?” with my phone in my pocket, and my ad feeds were FILLED WITH CAT TOYS! Also, I do not own a cat.

So, next time your loved one leaves their phone unattended, grab it and start talking ring styles. Repeating ‘yellow gold lab grown oval diamond with a hidden halo and pave diamonds on the sides’ over and over should bombard them with ads, and at the very least, get them thinking about the ring!

Successfully Get Your Dream Ring: Visit Our Dublin, OH Jewelry Store Today!

The more you delay, the less inspiration your partner has to work with! So stop by our jewelry store in Dublin, OH and show them the engagement ring styles you love.

When it comes to exploring engagement ring styles, modern bride and grooms want to find a fusion of elegance, craftsmanship, and affordability. Luckily, at Scott’s Custom Jewelers, all of these options awaits!

In this blog, we’ll explore the top 10 affordable engagement rings both you and your partner will love. From classic designs to contemporary styles, there’s something for every budget and personal taste.

1. Solitaire Rings

The classic, solitaire engagement ring is the “gold standard” amongst jewelers, making it a timeless style. Simple and elegant, this style features one gem on a plain band.

At Scott’s Custom Jewelers, we’re setting half of our solitaires in 14k yellow gold, with the other half divided between 14k white, platinum and rose gold. There are tons of options you and your partner can choose from!

Of course, the most cost-effective option is reusing a family diamond in the setting, but lab grown diamonds are also a great idea! Lab diamonds generally cost 80% less than mined diamonds, and have the benefit of being sustainable and conflict-free. This makes designing your own engagement ring much more affordable without sacrificing brilliance!

Interested in learning more about lab grown diamonds and how they are the most sustainable (and stunning) option for your jewelry? Download the whitepaper!

2. Three Stone Engagement Rings

Filled with meaning and romance, the timeless three stone diamond ring is another great choice for couples on a budget.

Traditionally, the three stones signify the past, present and future. Other symbols include the Trinity in Christian religions, or even the visual of two people (the side stones) becoming one unit (the center stone).

We’ve even made three stone engagement rings with diamonds on either side from each family, and a newly purchased diamond in the center to signal the next chapter in the family legacy. There’s so much meaning in these rings!

3. Vintage Inspired Engagement Rings

Many modern couples still finds themselves drawn to the allure of vintage inspired engagement rings. These exquisite pieces often boast intricate designs on the sides, scalloped edges, and delicate hand engravings or beadwork encircling the stones.

The charm of vintage rings becomes even more pronounced when reusing small, cherished, family diamonds. Scott’s Custom Jewelers uses the precision of CAD technology to create a perfectly fitted custom ring for those family jewels!

Adding a contemporary twist, the marriage of vintage and modern takes place seamlessly when some lab grown diamonds are incorporated into the piece. This not only infuses the ring with a touch of the present but also ensures a remarkably cost-effective approach.

4. Halo Rings

If you want to incorporate a family diamond, but you’re not too keen on the size or shape of the stone, a custom diamond halo engagement ring is a perfect solution.

With our personalized design process, we have the ability to craft a tight halo encircling the center stone, creating an illusion of either a bigger stone, or even a different shape all together! We’ve repurposed mom’s marquise-shaped diamond, and with a custom diamond halo, made it look like an oval style engagement ring. It’s like a wonderful play of smoke and mirrors!

5. Contemporary Engagement Ring Styles

Our Columbus jewelry store is seeing an increasing number of couples opting for modern or contemporary engagement rings. These exquisite pieces boast striking features such as bold edges and alluring asymmetrical lines, turning them into true showstoppers.

Another contemporary style involves incorporating colored gemstones into the design. These delightful pops of color infuse the ring with a playful whimsy, making each piece truly one-of-a-kind.

6. Gemstone Engagement Rings

Let’s talk about color! It’s fascinating how more and more modern couples are veering away from traditional diamonds and embracing the allure of colored gemstone engagement rings. Interestingly, stones like sapphires, rubies, and emeralds were actually the gems of choice back in the 18th and 19th century. It wasn’t until 1947, with DeBeers’ famous marketing campaign “diamonds are forever,” that diamonds took the spotlight in engagement rings.

One of our sons (we have 5 boys and 1 girl) recently designed an absolute stunner—an engagement ring featuring a captivating marquise-shaped blue sapphire as the center stone, elegantly accented with trillion-shaped diamonds. The best part? All the stones were lab grown, making this masterpiece surprisingly affordable without compromising on beauty or brilliance.

7. Oval Diamond Ring Styles

Every era has their hallmark diamond shape. Round diamonds have always been the number one stone shape for custom engagement rings, but other shapes have been associated with certain time frames.

In the 1970s, marquise shaped diamonds were the popular style to go with. The 2000s were filled with square, or princess shaped stones. And the 2020s will be know for the oval shaped diamond.

The long, lean shape of the oval looks great on every hand. Currently, we’re setting most of our oval diamonds in 14k yellow gold and they look amazing!

8. Two Stone Engagement Ring

Two stone engagement rings – also knows as “toi et moi” (you and me) – debuted over 70 years ago when First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy showed off her beautiful emerald cut emerald and emerald cut diamond ring to the world. Now that trend is coming back in style!

Did you know there are no rules when it comes to designing your two stone engagement ring? We’ve made these stunning looks with couples’ birthstones, cherished family diamonds, or even a combination of a lab-grown diamond and a vibrant colored gemstone. Each design is so unique, and filled with meaning.

9. Custom Engagement Ring Styles

Most people think custom engagement rings are for those on a budget. That’s not true at all!

At Scott’s, custom engagement rings present a super affordable option, especially if you’re considering reusing diamonds from old jewelry. Not only do you get to bypass purchasing new gems by recycling your own, but we take it even further by offering the option to trade in old gold, which comes off the price of your new piece.

We use our CAD technology and 3D printers to custom design the engagement ring, all done in-house in our Dublin, Ohio jewelry store (we don’t use a third party to design like most other jewelry stores). And you can incorporate all kinds of cool features in the new piece.

Imagine having both of your initials engraved on the piece, personalizing it in a way that speaks to your unique love story. We’ve even made a beautiful piece with the silhouette of two penguins with a small diamond pebble between them, beneath the main stone, symbolizing the story of how penguins choose their mates! The possibilities are endless!

And the best part? At Scott’s, these features don’t come with additional costs—they are all part of our design process!

10. Refurbished Rings

Sometimes, the most budget-friendly and sentimental choice for an engagement ring is refurbishing or repairing a beloved family ring.

Here at Scott’s, we take pride in our full-service, in-house jewelry shop located in Columbus. With a team of three skilled and experienced jewelers and goldsmiths, equipped with the latest tools and technology, we can expertly breathe new life into that cherished “I do” heirloom!

Explore Affordable Engagement Ring Styles

When it’s time to look for engagement rings, bring your partner with you to design the perfect ring at Scott’s Custom Jewelers! Chose from one of our gorgeous, ready-made pieces, or unleash your creativity and design a unique, custom piece that symbolizes your love. Schedule an appointment today and let’s make something beautiful, together!

Environmental Impact Of Mining Diamonds

There are several methods used to mine diamonds, each with their own brand of harmful environmental impact. Generally, diamonds are mined through primary deposits using two main methods: open-pit mining and underground mining. And recently, marine mining has become more common.

On average, diamond mining companies move 250 tons of earth per carat of mined diamond. Moving so much material requires substantial amounts of energy, which usually comes from fossil fuels. Their use releases carbon and other greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. In addition, maintaining these expansive facilities also requires energy.

Diamond Mining Methods

• Open-pit diamond mining entails digging large pits, up to hundreds of meters deep. This process not only removes millions of years worth of sediments, but also disrupts wildlife. The process displaces hundreds of acres of earth and devastates the natural environment, while disrupting fragile ecosystems.
• Underground mining is used when an open-pit mine has been depleted or when the diamonds are located too deep below the surface to reach via an open pit. This process costs far more than open-pit mining, and is especially damaging to the environment.
• Marine diamond mining is the process of using dredges to remove sediment from the ocean floor. After scouting the location, large vessels essentially “rack” the ocean. The sediment is then sorted on the ship, where the diamonds are removed and the excess sediment is then returned to the ocean floor. This method is extremely harmful to fragile, oceanic ecosystems.

Besides the environment impacts, there are also human rights violations, including child labor, that have been associated with the mined diamond industry. Miners’ pay is often nearly negligible – for both children and adults. For example, nearly a million African diamond miners make a wage of less than $1 per day.

Lab Grown Diamonds: Growing Methods

There are two main lab grown diamond production methods: high pressure/high temperature process (HPHT) and chemical vapor deposition (CVD). Both methods are commonly used, but CVD is more popular for producing gem-quality diamonds for jewelry, while HPHT is used more often to create synthetic diamonds for industrial use.

• HPHT was started in the 1950s and was the first method developed for diamond synthesis. It involves placing into a press, a capsule containing a mixture of carbon starting material, metal flux, and a small diamond seed. The capsule is then heated to high temperatures (1,300º to 1,600º C) and pressed to pressures up to 59,200 atm. This dissolves the mixture and it then crystallize around the diamond seed, forming a lab-grown diamond. This process can take a few hours or a few weeks, depending on the size and quality of the stones.
• The CVD process starts with filling a chamber with a mixture of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen. Next, a thin sliver of diamond seed or graphite is placed in the chamber and it’s heated to temperatures of 800º to 900º C. This then begins to crystalize into a diamond. CVD can take from days and weeks, depending on the desired size and quality of the stones. However, dozens of stones can be grown at the same time.

Environmental Impacts Of Lab Grown Diamonds

Producing diamonds in a lab is less damaging to ecosystems, wildlife, and human populations than mining diamonds. Opting for a lab grown diamond engagement ring or other diamond jewelry, will help alleviate the environmental harm diamond mining creates.

Although lab diamonds don’t require the same disruptive mining techniques, they do require energy. Sustainable lab growers (which are the companies that Scott’s uses, btw!) are turning to solar power in their manufacturing to help reduce their carbon footprint even more.

Are Lab Grown Diamonds Real?

As Forbes Magazine recently reported, “A diamond is a diamond no matter whether it is grown in a lab or comes out of the ground.”

So, are lab grown diamonds reals? Both mined and lab grown diamonds are made of carbon crystalized in the isometric system with a hardness of 10 on the mohs scale, with a specific gravity of 3.52 and a refractive index of 2.42. So yes – they are exactly the same!

Lab Grown vs Natural Diamond

The difference between the two is in their cost.

Because lab grown diamonds now cost 70-80% less than mined diamonds, they provide an affordable option for those who want the beauty and luxury of diamonds without the high price tag. In fact, our customers have been able to choose a higher quality (VS clarity), whiter (D-F color), larger (1carat and up!) for their diamond jewelry AND paying less since we started carrying lab grown diamonds 7 years ago!

Interested in learning more about lab grown diamonds and how they are the most sustainable (and stunning) option for your jewelry? Download the whitepaper!

Sustainable Jewelry: Scott’s Custom Jewelers

Here’s a little secret – jewelry stores have recycled metals for jewelry way before it became a buzz word :).

For example, we regularly send old gold pieces/parts, dust from our buffer and even the vacuum cleaner bags to refiners, who then separate the gold out and return purified gold nuggets for us to use when we cast our own jewelry. In over 22 years of business, we have never had to buy freshly mined gold for casting.

And we have made restyling jewelry one of our specialties! We recycle the gold, saving you money, reuse the gemstones, saving the memories, and custom made jewelry with CAD technology and 3D printers, all here in our Dublin, Ohio store!

In addition, Scott’s completed the steps necessary to be an Accredited Retailer for Sustainability Rated Diamonds last year. We. Are. Committed!

Sustainable, affordable, and ethically sourced diamonds ARE possible…at Scott’s!

After 95 years in the jewelry business, our family has seen it all when it comes to Dublin Ohio jewelry repairs!

No worries! Scott’s state-of-the-art repair shop with three bench jewelers and goldsmiths will help get your jewelry looking like new again in no time!

Types Of Jewelry Repair

It’s not uncommon for jewelry to break, especially if you wear it everyday. Prongs holding gemstones get caught on pockets and cause them to snap, gold chains wear thin and break, and rings can get all bent out of shape simply by gripping that steering wheel too hard during rush hour. We’ve even resurrected jewelry that’s been destroyed by garbage disposables!

But you don’t always need to replace your jewelry when it breaks. A qualified, experienced bench jeweler or goldsmith can make it look like new again. Some of the most common jewelry fixes include:

• Soldering (it’s like gold welding) chains at the broken area
• Laser welding repairs on antique jewelry
• Replacing broken clasps on necklaces or bracelets
• Re-tipping or re-pronging the worn or broken prongs that hold gemstones
• Re-shanking the bottom of a thin, worn out ring
• Reshaping and re-rounding rings that have been bent
• Replacing missing gemstones in family heirloom jewelry

Why Jewelry Maintenance Is Important

Just like your teeth, you should have the jewelry that you wear everyday inspected every six months by a qualified jeweler. Why? Because jewelry maintenance is less costly than replacing missing gemstones later!

During the inspection, the jeweler will clean your pieces then look at them closely with a small loupe or a microscope. This close up viewing lets the jeweler see any areas that are worn out, bent or even cracked. These small repairs will definitely extend the life of your jewelry and have it looking like new again.

It’s important that you visit an experienced jeweler. Many stores have jewelry salespeople, but they may not be qualified to identify a potential problem. We see this all the time at Scott’s: someone will come in with a missing diamond in their wedding ring, and say they just had it cleaned at a mall jewelry store. Sometimes, the dirt is actually the only thing keeping the stone “glued” into the ring, so when you remove the grime, the stone falls out! A seasoned jeweler can identify problems like this right away and fix it.

When Jewelry Can’t Be Repaired Anymore

Over time, gold and platinum in jewelry will eventually wear so thin it doesn’t make sense to repair it anymore. Maybe the bottom of a ring is so thin it keeps breaking, or the prongs that hold the gems in a necklace are worn so much the stone rattles in the setting. But you don’t have to replace those pieces. There’s a solution: restyle it!

Your gemstones have a ton of sentimental value. The diamonds from great-grandma’s wedding band can still be enjoyed for many more generations when you reuse them in a new piece. And with Scott’s state-of-the-art CAD (computer aided design) technology, 3D printers, and staff of jewelry designers, we can tailor-make new jewelry that fits those stones perfectly!

And custom jewelry doesn’t mean expensive. Repurposing gems and recycling old gold not only saves you money, but saves the memories too.

Get Your Favorite Jewelry Repaired In Our Dublin Store!

Need a Dublin custom jeweler? Stop in anytime and let our talented staff work their magic on your broken jewelry! You can find us at 6365 Perimeter Drive, Dublin OH 43016.

So, maybe you’re thinking about popping the question—congratulations! Now that you’ve found “the one,” it’s time to look at engagement rings. But there’s so many options! Don’t worry, we can guide you on everything you need to know about designing a custom engagement ring. We’re experts on this!

Step #1 – Let’s Start With The Center Stone

There are so many things to consider when it comes to the center stone of a custom engagement ring. Diamond or colored gemstone? Mined or lab grown? What about the shape of the stone?

If you haven’t already talked about an engagement ring with your partner, lurk on her Pinterest page or talk to her bestie and get some intel!

Also, it’s time to look at your budget. The adage “an engagement ring should cost two month’s salary” is old news. We say, budget for what you can reasonably afford! No one needs extra debt for a ring, there’s plenty of ways to make affordable custom jewelry.

Diamond Or Gemstone?

Believe it or not, engagement rings are a relatively new trend in the United States. According to Bride’s Magazine, “diamond engagement rings didn’t become popular until 1947 when De Beers, the British company that mined diamonds in South Africa, launched an advertising campaign. With the help of Hollywood stars and the slogan “a diamond is forever,” diamond engagement rings skyrocketed in popularity for the first time since their appearance stateside in 1840.”

Today, couples have even more choices when it comes to custom engagement rings. Diamonds mined from the earth are one option, but gaining popularity, especially with Millennial customers, are lab grown diamonds.

Exactly the same as mined diamonds in their shape, quality and size, lab grown diamonds offer an eco-friendly conflict-free choice as a center stone with the added value of costing 70-80% less than mined diamonds.

When you purchase a lab grown diamond from Scott’s Custom Jewelers, you’ll not only get a great, high quality, very affordable stone, but your purchase allows Scott’s to donate, from our profit, $100/carat of each stone sold, to The Dublin Food Pantry.

Interested in learning more about lab grown diamonds and how they are the most sustainable (and stunning) option for your jewelry? Download the whitepaper!

But if a diamond is not your vibe, then a beautiful colored gem is an awesome center stone too!

In fact, sapphires, rubies and emeralds were the gem of choice for engagement rings before diamonds became popular. Plus, many colored stones are available in both mined and lab grown varieties.

Stones To Avoid In A Custom Engagement Ring

With so many colored gemstone options, there are some stones you should avoid because they aren’t tough enough to withstand the daily wear and tear of an engagement ring.

• Emeralds. Mined varieties are expensive(!) and fragile, but lab grown emeralds offer the same color at a fraction of the price.
• Opals. The saying that it’s bad luck to wear an opal if it isn’t your birthstone (October) came about because of how often these gems broke! Opals actually can dry out and become very brittle; not the best choice for a ring.
• Aquamarines. Made from the same material as emeralds, aquas are also very soft gems and prone to breaking and scratching.
• Morganite. The soft peachy pink color is so feminine, it’s no wonder it’s shown on so many Pinterest boards. But these gems also scratch very easy, and a scuffed up morganite is not a good look!
• Moissanite. Before the super affordable lab grown diamonds hit the market, moissanite was the inexpensive alternative to mined diamonds. But these stones are so hard that when they get hit, they break off in BIG chunks, and they can’t be recut!

Step #2 – Let’s Talk About The Band

Whether you want a simple, 14k yellow gold solitaire style engagement ring, a vintage inspired vine ring or even a bold contemporary statement piece, we can find your jewelry style and bring it to life with our cool CAD (computer aided design) technology and 3D printers.

Solitaire Engagement Rings

We keep seeing this on Etsy: super thin, lightweight solitaire engagement rings holding ginormous gemstones. A very dainty look for sure, but one that probably will break before your 1st anniversary.

By definition, a solitaire engagement ring is a ring that features one center gemstone. There are no other diamonds or gemstones anywhere on the ring, and the band is typically plain with no pavé diamonds.

But there is a way to get that thin look without sacrificing strength. It’s called “jewelry magic.” JK, it actually involved math, and we make these pretty rings all the time! Solitaire rings can be in any color of gold too – yellow, white and rose.

Diamond Accented Ring Bands

Again, there are so many options if you want some added bling on your ring. A timeless classic, the 3-stone ring is gaining popularity, as well as diamonds cascading down the band or woven in an organic, leafy pattern.

Contrasting diamond shapes are also in vogue, like an oval shaped center stone with triangle shaped diamond accents. There are tons of combinations and you can even chose lab grown diamonds for the sides.

Plus, with a custom designed engagement ring you can repurpose diamonds from family jewelry into the band and really add to your jewelry’s story.

Step #3 – Choose Your Custom Engagement Ring Designer

For some stores, offering custom engagement rings can be kind of pricey. These stores have to outsource this service and the results aren’t always what the customer envisioned.

But since Scott’s specialized in custom designs (it is our middle name), we’ve honed the process into a very easy, very satisfying process. Don’t believe us? Check out what our customers have to say!

“Every time I wear the ring Scott’s created for me, I catch myself staring at it. I LOVE it – it’s exactly what I wanted. The team at Scott’s is kind, professional, skilled and accommodating. Thanks to their creativity and expertise, the heirloom items I brought to them were given new life and transformed into modern, tasteful designs.”

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When you design a custom engagement ring at Scott’s, you’ll work directly with the designers (there are 3 of us!) to flesh out your vision. Need some help? No worries, we have tons of designs to inspire you.

After you meet with our staff we’ll work our magic and produce actual pictures of your piece from all angles that we’ll send to your email. Need to made changes? Not a problem, and no extra fee either.

Once you like your photos we’ll make an actual model of your engagement ring using one of our 3D printers. We’ll even paint the model the color of your gold and place your gemstones into it so you can see what the finished item will look like. Want an adjustment? Again, no problem!

After you’ve okayed your custom jewelry design we’ll cast the piece and set all the stones right here in our Dublin, Ohio jewelry store. And the best part: from start to finish we can make a custom ring in as little as two weeks!

It’s Easy To Design A Custom Engagement Ring At Scott’s!

Making custom jewelry is Scott’s specialty! We’ve worked very hard to streamline the process and make it as easy as possible to help our customers bring their engagement rings to life!

As an added bonus, if we make your engagement ring we’ll give you $200 off EACH of your wedding rings too! Want to learn more? Click below.