Finding the perfect Diamond: Natural, HPHT-Enhanced, or Lab-Grown?

For over two and a half decades, I’ve been working with diamonds, building on my family’s three generations of expertise in the jewelry industry. Our mission has always been to help clients find diamonds that tell their story, celebrate their milestones, and align with their values.

Recently, I had the pleasure of helping a couple from San Francisco who flew across the country to my New York City showroom in search of a rare, natural diamond for their engagement ring. Their journey highlighted a growing challenge in the diamond industry and gave me the opportunity to discuss the unique solutions I offer: natural diamonds, HPHT-enhanced diamonds, and lab-grown diamonds.

Why This Couple Wanted a Natural Diamond

For this couple, a natural diamond was the only option. They had been searching for a 6-carat diamond in either an elongated cushion cut or an oval cut—shapes known for their elegance and brilliance. However, they were frustrated by how difficult it was to find a high-quality natural diamond.

Every jeweler they visited seemed to push lab-grown diamonds, emphasizing the significant cost savings. While lab-grown stones can be tempting due to their price, this couple felt strongly that their engagement ring—a symbol of their love and commitment—deserved the authenticity and timelessness of a diamond that formed naturally over millions of years.

The Industry Shift to Lab-Grown Diamonds

The jewelry industry is changing. Many jewelers are stocking fewer natural diamonds, instead filling their inventory with lab-grown options that offer higher margins and lower price points. While this trend makes sense for some, it leaves clients like this couple underserved.

This shift underscores what sets me apart. While many jewelers are moving away from natural diamonds, I continue to offer:

1. Earth-mined natural diamonds that represent rarity and permanence.

2. HPHT-enhanced diamonds—a unique option that bridges the gap between cost savings and authenticity.

3. Lab-grown diamonds for those who prioritize affordability and size over natural origins.

What Are HPHT-Enhanced Diamonds?

For clients looking for a compromise between natural diamonds and lab-grown alternatives, HPHT-enhanced diamonds are an incredible option. Here’s what makes them special:

• What Is HPHT?

HPHT stands for High-Pressure, High-Temperature treatment. It’s a process used to improve a diamond’s color, turning a yellowish stone into a whiter one.

• Permanent Color Enhancement

Unlike other treatments, HPHT is permanent and certified by the GIA (Gemological Institute of America). The GIA clearly states on its certificates that the color enhancement is irreversible, ensuring transparency and reliability.

• No Compromise on Quality

Many clients compromise on diamonds to fit their budget—choosing stones with fluorescence, lower clarity, or more yellowish tones. With HPHT-enhanced diamonds, you don’t have to compromise. These are still natural, earth-mined diamonds, but their color has been improved to make them more desirable without a massive price increase.

• Why Are HPHT Diamonds Rare?

Less than 2% of the world’s diamonds are eligible for HPHT treatment. Only Type IIa diamonds—those with no traces of nitrogen or boron—can undergo this process. Additionally, HPHT treatment is complex, involving risks like weight loss during the repolishing stage. This rarity makes them a unique and valuable option.

Three Routes to Your Dream Diamond

At my showroom, I offer clients three distinct paths to finding their perfect diamond:

1. Natural Diamonds

Timeless, rare, and untouched, these diamonds represent the ultimate luxury. They’re ideal for clients who value tradition, authenticity, and permanence.

2. HPHT-Enhanced Diamonds

A middle ground between cost and quality, these diamonds are natural but have undergone color improvement. They allow clients to access larger or higher-quality diamonds without paying the premium for a naturally perfect stone.

3. Lab-Grown Diamonds

For those who want to maximize size and brilliance while staying within a budget, lab-grown diamonds are an attractive option. While they lack the rarity of natural diamonds, they still offer beauty and sparkle at a fraction of the cost.

The Result: A 6-Carat Elongated Cushion Diamond

For the couple from San Francisco, natural was the only way to go. After exploring my collection, they found their perfect stone: a stunning 6-carat elongated cushion-cut diamond. Its proportions, brilliance, and natural origin made it the ideal choice for their engagement ring.

Watching them light up as they saw their diamond for the first time reminded me why I’m in this business. Whether my clients choose natural, HPHT-enhanced, or lab-grown diamonds, my goal is always the same: to help them find a diamond that celebrates their unique story.

Why Choose Me for Your Diamond Journey?

With over 25 years of experience and a family legacy spanning three generations, I’ve seen trends come and go. But one thing remains constant: my commitment to offering high-quality, earth-mined diamonds alongside innovative options like HPHT-enhanced diamonds.

If you’re searching for a 6-carat oval cut, elongated cushion, or any other diamond that feels as rare and special as your milestone, let’s talk. Together, we’ll find a piece that fits your vision and values.