Do Lab Grown Diamonds Get Appraised?

Lab grown diamonds have taken the jewelry world by storm, offering a stunning and sustainable alternative to mined diamonds. As more shoppers explore lab diamond jewelry, one common question arises: do lab grown diamonds get appraised? The answer is a resounding yes! Just like their mined counterparts, lab grown diamonds can and should be appraised for insurance, resale, and peace of mind. Whether you're eyeing a dazzling engagement ring or a timeless tennis bracelet, understanding the appraisal process is key to protecting your investment.

At Robinson's Jewelers, we believe every diamond deserves proper documentation, regardless of its origin. Lab grown diamonds are chemically, physically, and optically identical to natural diamonds, which means they hold real value and require professional evaluation. An appraisal provides an official record of your diamond's quality, characteristics, and current market value - essential whether you're insuring a halo ring or passing down a pendant as an heirloom.

Why Appraise Lab Grown Diamonds?

Many assume that only natural diamonds warrant appraisal, but this misconception could leave your jewelry unprotected. Lab grown diamonds may cost less upfront than mined diamonds, but they still represent a significant investment in beautiful fine jewelry. Here are three compelling reasons to get your lab diamond appraised:

1. Insurance Requirements: Most insurance companies require a current appraisal to cover jewelry properly. Whether it's a eternity band or stud earrings, having documentation ensures you can replace your pieces if lost or stolen.

2. Resale Value Documentation: While the secondary market for lab diamonds is still developing, an appraisal establishes your jewelry's worth if you ever decide to sell or upgrade your solitaire pendant or cocktail ring.

3. Quality Verification: An appraisal confirms your diamond's specifications - cut, color, clarity, and carat weight - whether it's set in a bezel setting or pave setting. This is especially important for larger stones like those in statement necklaces.

The Lab Diamond Appraisal Process

Appraising lab grown diamonds follows the same rigorous process as natural diamonds. At Robinson's Jewelers, our certified gemologists examine your stone using specialized tools to assess:

1. The 4Cs: We evaluate the diamond's cut (like princess cut or oval cut), color grade, clarity characteristics, and carat weight with the same precision applied to mined diamonds.

2. Origin Verification: While lab diamonds are real diamonds, we identify and document their lab-grown origin using advanced testing equipment.

3. Setting and Metal: The appraisal includes details about the mounting, whether it's a platinum engagement ring or rose gold huggie earrings.

4. Current Market Value: We research comparable lab diamond jewelry to determine fair replacement value for insurance purposes.

Lab Diamond Appraisal vs. Natural Diamond Appraisal

While the appraisal process is identical, there are some key differences in how lab grown diamonds are valued:

1. Price Point: Lab diamonds typically appraise for less than natural diamonds of equal quality because they cost less to produce. A 1-carat lab diamond might appraise at $3,000 while a comparable natural diamond could appraise at $6,000.

2. Depreciation: Like electronics, lab diamonds may depreciate faster than natural diamonds as production technology improves. We recommend updating appraisals every 2-3 years for accuracy.

3. Identification: Appraisals clearly state when a diamond is lab-created to prevent confusion. This transparency protects all parties in transactions involving bridal jewelry or estate pieces.

Special Considerations for Lab Diamond Jewelry

When getting your lab grown diamond jewelry appraised, keep these tips in mind:

1. Choose an Experienced Appraiser: Not all jewelers are equally familiar with lab diamonds. Our team at Robinson's Jewelers stays current on lab diamond grading standards and market trends.

2. Update Older Appraisals: If you have lab diamond earrings or bracelets purchased several years ago, their value may have changed significantly due to market fluctuations.

3. Consider the Complete Piece: For jewelry like a tennis necklace with multiple stones, the appraisal should reflect the collective value of all components including the metal and craftsmanship.

4. Keep Documentation: Always retain the original grading report (from IGI, GCAL, or other reputable labs) along with your appraisal for complete documentation of your wedding band or drop earrings.

Protecting Your Lab Diamond Investment

Beyond getting an appraisal, there are several ways to protect and maximize the value of your lab grown diamond jewelry:

1. Proper Insurance: Consider adding a jewelry rider to your homeowner's policy or specialized jewelry insurance for pieces like anniversary bands or chandelier earrings.

2. Regular Maintenance: Bring your rings and pendants in for professional cleaning and prong checks to prevent stone loss.

3. Upgrade Programs: Some jewelers, including Robinson's, offer trade-in programs where you can apply the value of your current lab diamond toward new jewelry.

4. Proper Storage: Store necklaces separately to prevent scratching and use anti-tarnish strips for sterling silver pieces with lab diamond accents.

The Future of Lab Diamond Appraisals

As lab grown diamonds continue gaining market share, appraisal practices are evolving to reflect their unique position in the jewelry industry. We're seeing:

1. Specialized Valuation Methods: Appraisers are developing formulas specific to lab diamonds that account for production costs and market demand.

2. Increased Standardization: The jewelry industry is working toward more consistent grading and valuation standards for lab created stones across all types of jewelry from stackable rings to cuff bracelets.

3. Growing Acceptance: Major insurance companies and financial institutions are adapting their policies to properly cover lab diamond jewelry as its popularity grows.

At Robinson's Jewelers, we're proud to offer comprehensive appraisal services for all diamond jewelry, whether earth-mined or lab-created. Our expert team can help you document and protect your lab diamond pieces with accurate, up-to-date valuations. Remember, an appraisal isn't just about dollar amounts - it's about preserving the stories and memories behind your most cherished jewelry for generations to come.