A major shift is happening in the diamond industry. For the first time in history, younger buyers are overwhelmingly choosing lab grown diamonds over natural ones. This change is not a fad or a temporary trend. It is a generational movement that reflects Gen Z’s values, spending habits, and expectations for modern luxury.
Here is what the numbers show and why this shift matters.
Gen Z Prefers Lab Grown Diamonds by a Large Margin
According to the 2023 De Beers Diamond Insight Report, nearly 70 percent of Gen Z engagement ring buyers said they would consider a lab grown diamond. Forbes reported in 2024 that lab grown diamonds now account for more than 50 percent of all engagement rings sold in the United States, a statistic driven largely by Gen Z and younger Millennials.
For this generation, lab grown diamonds have become the new norm. They are not viewed as alternatives or substitutes. Instead, they are seen as the smarter, more transparent, and more modern choice.
Affordability Is a Major Factor
Lab grown diamonds are chemically and visually identical to natural diamonds. Yet they typically cost between 50 and 80 percent less depending on shape, size, and clarity. During a time when Gen Z faces rising living costs, student loans, and housing challenges, this price difference matters.
Many choose lab grown diamonds because they can afford a larger stone, a higher color grade, or a better cut without straining their budget. In 2024, the average natural diamond engagement ring cost over $6,000, while the average lab grown diamond ring cost under $3,000. For Gen Z, that value difference is significant.
Sustainability Matters to Gen Z
Research from First Insight and the Wharton School found that 73 percent of Gen Z shoppers prefer brands that are sustainable, and 62 percent are willing to pay more for environmentally friendly products. Although lab grown diamonds are not impact free, they generally produce a much smaller environmental footprint than large scale mining.
Gen Z also cares about ethical sourcing. The transparency behind lab grown diamonds offers clarity in a way that mined diamonds historically have not. This resonates deeply with a generation that expects brands to be honest and socially responsible.
Social Media Has Accelerated the Shift
Gen Z spends more time-consuming media on TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, and Pinterest than any previous generation. Engagement ring reveals, diamond comparisons, and lab grown recommendations spread quickly on social platforms.
On TikTok alone, the hashtag “labgrown diamond” has been viewed tens of millions of times in 2024. Influencers, jewelers, and gemologists have made it easy for buyers to understand the differences and see real examples. As a result, lab grown diamonds have become part of mainstream digital culture rather than a niche trend.
Gen Z Is More Educated and Research Driven
Unlike past generations who relied heavily on traditional jewelers, Gen Z researches everything online before making major purchases. This includes color grades, clarity levels, certification, and pricing data.
Many young shoppers discover that lab grown diamonds often provide higher specifications within their budget. They also learn that reputable stones come with certification from labs like IGI, which provides clear documentation. This research driven approach makes lab grown diamonds especially appealing.
The Meaning of the Diamond Is Changing
For Gen Z couples, the symbolism of an engagement ring is less about tradition or scarcity and more about personal meaning. Many prioritize customization, modern settings, and unique shapes such as oval, emerald, and marquise cuts.
Lab grown diamonds fit perfectly into this mindset because they offer creative flexibility. Buyers can choose larger or more elongated shapes without feeling limited by cost or rarity. It allows them to design rings that feel personalized, distinctive, and aligned with their style.
The Future Belongs to Lab Grown Diamonds
Every major jewelry report from 2023 and 2024 points to the same conclusion. Lab grown diamonds are becoming the preferred choice for younger buyers. They offer better value, transparency, and modern appeal. They also align with what Gen Z cares about: sustainability, honesty, personalization, and smart financial decisions.
This trend is not slowing down. It is shaping the future of engagement rings and redefining the entire diamond industry.
If you are exploring lab grown diamonds or want to design a custom engagement ring, our team at Genesis Gems is here to help. We respond quickly, offer transparent guidance, and craft every ring with IGI certified diamonds and solid 14k gold.