Couples, it’s time to ditch those overpriced natural diamonds! The trend of choosing lab-grown diamonds for engagement rings is on the rise, and honestly, can you blame anyone? A recent survey from The Knot revealed that in 2024, a staggering 52% of couples opted for these eco-friendly gems, marking a 6% increase from 2023 and a massive 40% surge since 2019.

And let’s talk money. The average price tag for a 1-carat lab-grown diamond is around $845. Meanwhile, if you’re feeling fancy for that natural diamond, the price jumps to approximately $3,895. It seems like more couples are waking up to the idea that they can still shine without going broke. Why pay up to four times more for a mined stone when you can have the same sparkle for a fraction of the cost? The Knot’s 2025 Real Weddings Study found that most couples spend about $4,900 on lab-grown diamonds compared to $7,600 for their mined counterparts.

Now, you might wonder if lab-grown diamonds are less ethical. Well, they side-step the heavy moral baggage of “blood diamonds” that have stained the hands of the jewelry trade for decades. The ability to bask in your love without the guilt of history? Sign us up! That being said, there’s still a debate regarding the environmental impact of lab-grown alternatives. While they’re often marketed as the greener choice, critics point out that the energy used in labs tends to come from fossil fuels.

But hold your horses! Buying a diamond, whether lab-grown or natural, shouldn’t hinge solely on price or ethics. You may be blinded by the diamond’s price and shiny exterior, but it’s important to recognize that lab-grown diamonds don’t hold their value like natural stones do. For those looking for a piece of jewelry that doubles as an investment, this might be a consideration.

In the end, it’s all about personal choice, but we can all agree that love shouldn’t come with a six-figure debt or a side of moral dilemma. Don’t let the capitalist machine dictate your happiness. Whether you pick a lab-grown ring or a vintage find, choose what speaks to you and your partner’s love story. Because in this world, love is priceless, and your engagement ring should reflect that without emptying your wallet, all while giving a nudge to unethical diamond mining practices.

So, which one will it be? Let the love games begin, sans the capitalist heartache!