When you’re shopping for a diamond — whether it’s for an engagement ring, an anniversary present or simply a special gift — it can feel overwhelming, but the good news is that you have more affordable and ethical options than ever.
Increasingly, one of the best ways to check many of those boxes is by choosing a lab-grown diamond instead of a traditional mined stone. Here’s why money expert Clark Howard is on board — and which retailers he recommends.
Top Places To Buy Lab-Grown Diamonds
Here are reputable options to buy lab-grown diamonds:
Why Clark Howard Prefers Lab-Grown Diamonds
Lab-grown diamonds are chemically, physically and optically identical to mined diamonds. As Clark puts it:
“This isn’t cubic zirconia we’re talking about here. These diamonds have an identical chemical makeup — not similar, identical — to a diamond that is dug out of the earth.”
He also highlights the savings:
“These [lab-made] diamonds are starting to appear in more and more retail stores and you just flat-out save money.”
In short: If you want the look and feel of a “real diamond,” but want to spend less (or invest your money elsewhere), lab-grown offers a compelling alternative.
Final Thought
If you follow Clark’s mindset, choosing a lab-grown diamond often hits all the right notes: the sparkle you want, the certification you need, and the price that leaves you feeling smart rather than squeezed. As Clark says, the choice really comes down to personal preference — but there’s nothing second-class about a lab-grown diamond.
In many cases, a lab-grown diamond gives you more sparkle for your budget — and lets you keep more of your money in your wallet.
