Scott Pape Highlights Gen Z's Preference for Lab-Grown Diamonds in Sunday Mail Column

Scott Pape Highlights Gen Z's Preference for Lab-Grown Diamonds in Sunday Mail Column

Chelsea McLean Chelsea McLean
3 minute read

Listen to article
Audio generated by DropInBlog's Blog Voice AI™ may have slight pronunciation nuances. Learn more

An investigation by author and media personality Scott Pape has found that Gen Z is driving an increasing trend in purchasing lab grown diamonds. Scott Pape is the best-selling author of The Barefoot Investor, a popular personal finance book in Australia. His column, published in the Sunday Mail and titled “Diamonds get a rough trot in modern times”, discusses an increase in purchasing sustainable lab grown diamonds over natural diamonds.

Quoted by Pape: “A full three quarters of them [Gen Z] prefer to buy sustainably rather than go for brand names, according to a study by Wharton University, as reported by the World Economic Forum.

“And that means: Bye-bye blood diamonds … Hello, lab-grown diamonds!”

Pape explains that lab grown diamonds are chemically identical to mined diamonds, because they're created under similar conditions. Lab grown diamonds are crafted in an artificial setting and mimic the formation of a natural diamond. Pape notes that even jewellers can’t tell the difference between these two types of diamonds.

Image: Lab grown diamond ring.

As more people understand the environmental benefits of lab grown diamonds, the more popular these diamonds are becoming.

Pape says: “There are even more bragging rights if your bride-to-be can say her lab-grown diamond was made in a factory run on solar power.”

The article explains that it's not only Gen Z who are buying lab grown diamonds, but influencers too:

“Gen Z’s influences - like Meghan Markle, Billie Eilish, and Bindi Irwin - all reportedly wear ‘ethical, sustainable and conflict-free’ lab-grown diamonds,” says Pape.

“Heck, even old Leo DiCaprio, who starred in the film Blood Diamond, apparently gives his girlfriends ethical rings.”

Curious about what type of diamond people prefer, Pape asked his accountant, who said: “The lab, of course. Better value for money.” This opinion contrasted his assistant, who said she prefers the real thing: “I want someone to have suffered for my ring.” Finally, Pape asked his wife, who said: “I love the one you gave me … and I'm not planning on getting another.”

With conflicting thoughts surrounding purchasing lab grown diamonds, these eco-friendly diamonds are becoming more considered as the standard everyday ring.

Image: Lab grown diamond in box.

Lab grown diamonds aren’t just sustainable and ethical; they are also affordable. Stated in Pape’s article, “lab-grown diamonds are 90 per cent cheaper than mined diamonds.”

And Pape notes that Gen Z aren’t just buying lab grown diamonds because of their affordability. Gen Z also get to claim the moral high ground because they’re doing it to save the planet. Lab grown diamonds are more ethically sourced as they require less energy and water to produce.

Get Lab-Grown Diamonds Today with Shiels

Gen Z is breaking the myths and misconceptions surrounding lab-grown diamonds one purchase at a time! These eco-friendly gemstones are increasing in popularity, making them a great (and more affordable) choice. As the importance of sustainable purchases becomes more recognised, lab-grown diamonds are being more appreciated. Go sustainable today with Shiels’ impressive range of lab-grown diamonds. Check out some of our favourites below! 

Certified Luminesce Lab Grown 1.5 Carat Solitaire Engagement Ring in 18ct Yellow Gold

Certified Luminesce Lab Grown 1.5 Carat Solitaire Engagement Ring in 18ct Yellow Gold

$4,899.30 $6,999.00

This solitaire ring features a stunning 1.5 carat lab grown, independently certified diamond. Beautifully crafted in 18ct gold, this is a ring that will be cherished for eternity. Luminesce Lab Grown Diamonds are quickly increasing in popularity as not only… read more

Luminesce Lab Grown Diamond 1 Carat Solitaire Stud Earrings in 14ct White Gold

Luminesce Lab Grown Diamond 1 Carat Solitaire Stud Earrings in 14ct White Gold

$999.50 $1,999.00

Want classic and sustainable earrings? These Luminesce Lab Grown Diamond 1 Carat Solitaire Stud Earrings in 14ct White Gold are the perfect way to elevate your outfit. Combining glam with simplicity, these earrings are to adore. Whether you’re going to… read more

9ct Yellow Gold 3 Carats Lab Grown Diamond 18cm Tennis Bracelet with 54 Diamonds

9ct Yellow Gold 3 Carats Lab Grown Diamond 18cm Tennis Bracelet with 54 Diamonds

$2,499.00

9ct Yellow Gold 3 Carats Lab Grown Diamond 18cm Tennis Bracelet with 54 Diamonds… read more

With more people considering lab grown diamonds for their environmental and financial benefits, the eco-friendly lab grown diamond market is growing. Shop sustainably with Shiels’ range of lab grown diamonds today! 

« Back to Blog