A lot of millennials and Gen Z’ers are opting out of real diamond rings because of strong ethical and environmental reasons. A recent report in Fortune notes that they’re choosing “lab-grown” stones. But the reality is that lab-grown diamonds are not quite as good a deal as you might think. Birkat Elyon specializes in cubic zirconia rings and is here to break down why CZ is actually the better choice.
When it comes to lab-grown diamonds and sustainability, most of the companies that make them are based in either India or China. Lab-grown diamonds require a tremendous amount of energy and time to make; currently, these countries get 75% of their electrical power from coal. Considering that a lab-grown diamond takes 10 to 12 weeks of consistent pressure and temperature to form, that’s a lot of coal-fired energy.
Conversely, cubic zirconia forms much quicker, usually in a matter of hours. The resources required to make brilliant cubic zirconia rings (or any other form of CZ jewelry) are much, much less.
Experts note that one other thing working against the lab-grown diamond is the cost. While they’re cheaper than an actual diamond, they’re still quite pricey. Sadly, their value tends to drop very quickly, leaving some buyers feeling cheated over their investment.
Cubic zirconia rings run about one-hundredth the cost of a lab-grown stone, and even less compared to a real diamond. Since its invention in 1970, the technology has evolved to make CZ virtually indistinguishable from the brilliance and clarity of a diamond and is almost as hard.
Plus, it addresses the concerns for sustainability in that these stones are created, not mined.
So, when it comes to choosing an engagement or wedding ring that’s kind to both the planet (and your wallet), cubic zirconia rings like those sold by Birkat Elyon are the best choice!