Us Weekly has affiliate partnerships so we may receive compensation for some links to products and services.
Shine bright like a diamond! It’s no secret that every jewelry lover out there would love a collection of diamond pieces — but have you considered lab-created diamonds? There are a lot of misunderstandings out there when it comes to lab-created (also known as lab-grown) diamonds. Are they the same as regular diamonds? Are they better? Worse? Are they more eco-friendly?
We’re here to not only answer your questions about lab-created diamonds but to show you some seriously beautiful earring options that will capture your heart!
Lab-created diamonds are, ultimately, exactly the same as natural, mined diamonds. They’re man-made, but they have the “same chemical and optical characteristics of a natural diamond crystal produced by the geological processes of Mother Nature,” as explained by The Diamond Pro. “Lab-created diamonds are made by replicating the processes that result in the creation of natural diamonds,” but instead of taking millions of years, it takes just a few weeks!
A diamond seed, coated in carbon, is placed inside a chamber that mimics the conditions of the Earth’s crust, causing it to “transform into a synthetic diamond, chemically identical to a natural diamond”!
There are many reasons people choose specifically to shop for lab-created diamonds, such as:
They usually cost less than natural diamonds
They are more sustainable, since there is no mining involved and less water used in their creation
There is a lot of controversy surrounding the ethics of the diamond mining industry
We took all of this into account when picking out the 11 stylish diamond earrings below. Check out our picks and get ready to sparkle!
We wanted to start you off with a truly timeless pair of studs — something that any and every diamond lover could enjoy. An IGI lab grading report accompanies each pair of earrings too so you can learn more about their creation and beauty!
Available in six different carat weights
One of the more expensive options
Huggies have been all the rage in the jewelry world lately, and this 18-karat gold earring proves that they’re here to stay. Not only are the diamonds lab-grown, but the gold is recycled too!
Can be worn on its own or with a drop earring attached to it
Meets the Nordstrom Sustainably Sourced Materials criteria
Only sold as single earring
An emerald cut on a diamond? We’re already in love. The halo of smaller diamonds surrounding the larger center one just makes this earring style even more of a must-have pick!
Sustainably grown with zero emissions
Available in single or as a pair
The design of these earrings and cut of the diamonds simply reminds Us of a cluster of sparkling stars in the night sky. Wish you could wear a star? These sterling silver studs are the next best thing!
Option for a Lifetime Protection Plan
Not made with a fine metal
Drop It Like It’s Hot
Looking for a pair of dangling drop earrings? These pear-shaped diamonds will look beautiful swaying just beneath your ears. This is another sterling silver pair that lets you wear diamonds without having to spend even $150!
White sapphire halo adds extra sparkle
Online exclusive, so you won’t find a better deal in store
Not made with a fine metal
While when we hear the word “diamond,” we usually think of a white diamond, there are colorful options available too! If you love a cool, icy blue, these studs are sure to capture your heart!
Currently 50% off — prices subject to change
Unique look is sure to stand out
7. Oscar Massin Beaded 18K White Gold & Latitude
Lab-Grown Diamond Large Stud Earrings
If you have a big budget, it will be hard to resist these Saks-exclusive studs. They each have a glorious diamond in the center with dainty, shining beads surrounding them, almost like a flower or the sun!
2-carat diamond with 18K gold
Nails the “modern yet timeless aesthetic”
Available at: Saks Fifth Avenue
We simply adore the way the cascade of smaller diamonds circling the bottom of the larger round diamond will almost form a frame around your earlobe. Such a beautiful design in every way. We can’t stop staring!
Available in white gold, yellow gold and rose gold
Also available with natural diamonds if you’d like the choice
Crawler earrings always turn heads in our experience, and with three dangling diamond chain accents, we know this style is going to do just that. We love how the charms look like evil eyes!
Made with recycled 18K gold
Has the effect of three earrings in one
Only sold as single earring
How pretty and playful are these earrings? They’re circles – but not hoops! The little diamonds form the outline of a hollowed-out circle over your ear, basically inviting endless compliments your way!
Made with 14K white gold
We love a simple hoop earring, but what about a hoop earring with emerald cut diamonds all around it — both on the inside and the outside? These earrings were designed for “high luster,” and we don’t question it for a second!
Made with 14K white gold
Front-facing and inner diamonds ensure a sparkle from any angle
Only available in one gold tone
Brilliant Earth Oval Lab Created Diamond Stud Earrings
Lab-Created Diamonds by KAY Cushion Stud Earrings
Lab-Created Diamonds by KAY Drop Earrings
Looking for more recommendations? Shop some of our other favorite finds below:
Our 11 Favorite Customizable Nameplate Necklaces on Amazon — All Under $75
Unique Wedding Gift Ideas for Brides and Grooms
18 Cutest Purses and Handbags from $50 to $400
This post is brought to you by Us Weekly’s Shop With Us team. The Shop With Us team aims to highlight products and services our readers might find interesting and useful, such as face masks, self tanners, Lululemon-style leggings and all the best gifts for everyone in your life. Product and service selection, however, is in no way intended to constitute an endorsement by either Us Weekly or of any celebrity mentioned in the post. The Shop With Us team may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. In addition, Us Weekly receives compensation from the manufacturer of the products we write about when you click on a link and then purchase the product featured in an article. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product or service is featured or recommended. Shop With Us operates independently from advertising sales team. We welcome your feedback at ShopWithUs@usmagazine.com. Happy shopping!