Photo (above): Engagement rings: Valquère
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Today, there are still many misconceptions about lab-grown diamonds. For example, some people think that they are less beautiful or brilliant than natural diamonds - when in reality they are a sustainable and high-quality alternative with the same brilliance. Especially if you want a coloured diamond or ‘fancy coloured diamond’, Eline Veekemans, expert at Valquère, explains: "Less than 0.1% of all natural diamonds have an intense colour. Because they are so extremely rare, these stones quickly go for six figures and are often unaffordable for most people. With our lab-grown coloured diamonds, we offer a solution: the same vibrant colours and brilliance, at a much lower price than the natural variants.‘
What are ’lab-grown' diamonds?
Lab-grown diamonds are not imitations. They are 100% real diamonds, formed in a controlled environment using advanced technologies. ‘We simulate the natural growth process of diamonds using the CVD (Chemical Vapour Deposition) or HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature) process,’ explains Eline. ‘The result is a lab-grown diamond that is chemically, physically and optically identical to a natural diamond, but at a lower price tag.’
Valquère focuses on exceptional quality for their lab-grown diamonds. Eline shares: "Less than 5% of all lab-grown diamonds worldwide meet the high purity standards of VS1 or VVS2, imposed by the GIA (Gemological Institute of America), one of the most renowned diamond certification bodies worldwide. At Valquère, we apply strict criteria to select only the highest quality, most beautiful and purest diamonds. Every stone we offer is therefore guaranteed to be brilliant and eye clean. Furthermore, all Valquère diamonds from 0.30 carats can also be certified by other leading institutes besides GIA, such as IGI (International Gemological Institute) and HRD Antwerp. This way, you can be certain of the origin and quality of every Valquère diamond.
Why choose a coloured lab-grown diamond?
In addition to their low prices compared to rare natural coloured diamonds, lab-grown diamonds offer a sustainable and ethical alternative, as they are produced in a controlled environment. ‘With our lab-grown ’fancy coloured diamonds‘, we can offer the same intense colours and brilliance in a sustainable and ethical way,’ says Eline.
In addition, all Valquère jewellery is made with 18-carat recycled gold. Eline: "By using recycled gold, we are doing our bit for the environment and ensuring responsibly produced luxury jewellery. Sustainability and luxury can go hand in hand. By making conscious choices, couples can enjoy an exclusive diamond without compromising on ethics or quality."
A very personal engagement ring: choose a colour that suits you perfectly!
Lab-grown coloured diamonds also offer many possibilities for personalisation. Valquère has an extensive colour palette, with each colour available in different shades, from ‘fancy vivid’ to ‘fancy intense’. Eline: ‘You choose the colour that suits you best, making your ring a truly personal statement. Each colour carries its own symbolism and emotion. This makes your engagement ring even more meaningful.’
Lab-grown coloured diamonds also offer many possibilities for personalisation. Valquère has an extensive colour palette, with each colour available in different shades, from ‘fancy vivid’ to ‘fancy intense’. Eline: ‘You choose the colour that suits you best, making your ring a truly personal statement. Each colour carries its own symbolism and emotion. This makes your engagement ring even more meaningful.’
Thanks to Valquère's advanced technologies, their coloured lab-grown diamonds have an intense and vivid hue. Eline: ’Our optimised growth processes ensure that the colours are as radiant and powerful as natural fancy coloured diamonds.’ Popular shades for engagement rings include pink, blue and yellow.
A modern take on luxury
With their innovative approach and customisation, Valquère is setting a new standard in the jewellery world. Their coloured lab-grown diamonds are much more affordable than their natural counterpart, without compromising on beauty and quality thanks to the colour intensity and carat size. "Our coloured lab-grown diamonds are the perfect fusion of science and art; proof that extraordinary beauty can be achieved when innovation and craftsmanship go hand in hand. We redefine luxury with our diamonds: we believe that luxury is not only about exclusivity, but also about accessibility. Everyone deserves a unique piece of jewellery that suits them perfectly. With our lab-grown fancy coloured diamonds, we are making exceptional beauty accessible to a wider audience," says Eline.
Frequently asked questions about coloured lab-grown diamonds
Are lab-grown diamonds real diamonds?
Yes, lab-grown diamonds have the same chemical, physical and optical properties as natural diamonds. Valquère's coloured lab-grown diamonds meet the high VS1 or VVS2 clarity standards set by the GIA (Gemological Institute of America), one of the most renowned diamond certification bodies in the world. Furthermore, all Valquère diamonds from 0.30 carats can also be certified by other leading institutes besides GIA, such as IGI (International Gemological Institute) and HRD Antwerp.
What is the difference between natural and lab-grown diamonds?
Natural diamonds are formed by millions of years of geological processes that take place deep in the earth. Lab-grown diamonds are created in a controlled environment using advanced technologies such as CVD (Chemical Vapour Deposition) or HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature). Because natural coloured diamonds are very rare, lab-grown diamonds are a more affordable alternative.
Why are natural coloured diamonds so rare?
Less than 0.1% of all natural diamonds have an intense colour. This makes them extremely valuable and rarely available. Lab-grown coloured diamonds from Valquère offer an alternative with the same vivid colours and quality, at a fraction of the price.
How do you recognise a lab-grown diamond?
Lab-grown diamonds cannot be distinguished from natural diamonds with the naked eye. Only specialised laboratories with advanced equipment can determine the difference. All Valquère diamonds from 0.30 carats can be certified by recognised institutes such as GIA (Gemological Institute of America), IGI (International Gemological Institute) and HRD Antwerp.
Can I have a lab-grown coloured diamond made to measure?
Yes, Valquère offers a tailor-made service where customers can design their dream ring. From the choice of diamond colour to the setting and precious metal, everything can be customised.
How long does it take to make a customised engagement ring with a lab-grown coloured diamond?
At Valquère, it takes at least two weeks to make a customised engagement ring. This is because they carefully select each diamond and process it into a handmade piece of jewellery in their workshop in Antwerp.
Want to know more? Discover the collection of lab-grown coloured diamonds by Valquère.
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