Why lab-created gems are taking over luxury fashion?

Today’s most discerning women are redefining luxury — not by chasing tradition, but by choosing conscious elegance. In a world where values are worn as boldly as accessories, eco-friendly lab-grown jewellery has become the modern woman’s statement of sophistication.

In Singapore, lab-grown coloured diamonds and gemstones are reshaping the idea of modern elegance, dazzling not just with brilliance but with meaning. They’re lighter on the planet, friendlier on the wallet, and – thanks to their vibrant hues and striking settings or designs – undeniably more expressive. 

In other words, jewellery has become armour. Whether it’s a sapphire the colour of midnight, a ruby with unapologetic fire, or an emerald as vivid as new beginnings, these lab-grown stones are designed for women who want to lead with presence.

Lab-grown and limitless

Lab-grown gemstones are not imitations. They’re chemically and optically identical to their natural counterparts. But they arrive without the baggage of mining, conflict, or sky-high prices. Typically 20 to 40 per cent less expensive than mined stones of similar quality, they offer freedom: Bigger carats, bolder colours, and room for creative design.

For eco-conscious buyers, the appeal goes deeper. A diamond – or emerald, or ruby – made with lower environmental impact and full traceability is jewellery that wears its values proudly. “Lab-grown coloured gemstones such as sapphires, emeralds, and rubies are truly sustainable alternatives and pocket-friendly to jewellery lovers,” says Ashley LeCaine, co-founder of LeCaine Gems. “You can completely own a piece of fine jewellery without sacrificing the look, quality, or budget.”

The global numbers are hard to ignore. Valued at US$27.2 billion (S$34.7 billion) in 2024, the lab-grown diamond market is projected to grow nearly 12 per cent annually through 2033. Asia-Pacific is at the heart of this momentum, driven by rising affluence, style-conscious consumers, and an appetite for ethical choices.

Singapore’s jewellery scene steps up

To get a sense of the ground, we spoke with jewellers Diamond2, LeCaine Gems, and Les Précieux, all of whom now straddle both natural and lab-grown.

For Ryan Tong, owner of Les Précieux, the shift is visible in bridal jewellery. “Singaporean couples are increasingly mindful of budget and sustainability, which has boosted demand for lab-grown diamonds and coloured gemstones,” he says. “Coloured stones are gaining popularity for engagement rings, moving away from the classic diamond solitaire.”

At Diamond2, the excitement lies in the design possibilities. “We can achieve remarkable precision – not just in the base colour, but in the nuance of tone, saturation, and even the emotional temperature of a gemstone,” says executive director Siddhartha Arya.

“Whether it’s the rich green of a Colombian-style emerald or the softness of a pastel pink sapphire, we’re now able to calibrate for colour in ways that were once unimaginable outside of nature.”

Colours boost confidence

In fashion, colour is more than an aesthetic; it’s a language. The same is true in jewellery. Blue sapphires exude calm authority. Red rubies radiate power and passion. Emeralds whisper of growth, renewal, and daring.

And thanks to lab-grown technology, these shades are no longer reserved for the few. A natural one-carat blue diamond can cost thousands of dollars. A lab-grown equivalent? Perhaps only a few hundred. Accessibility has cracked open the colour palette, allowing women to wear bolder hues without compromise.

For clients at LeCaine, this has unlocked creativity. “We see high demand for custom designs that make a statement with coloured lab-grown stones,” LeCaine says. “Popular requests often feature vibrant, romantic palettes – red, pink, blue. Clients love mixing and matching shapes and sizes to create one-of-a-kind pieces.”

Generational and mindset shifts

Younger clients – millennials and Gen Z – have led the charge, prioritising sustainability and affordability. But Arya notes it’s not just a youth movement. “We’ve also seen a steady interest from established collectors,” he says. “For them, it’s less about the label and more about the quality, rarity of colour, and design integrity. Once they experience the stones – see them, hold them, feel their presence – the distinction between lab-grown and mined becomes secondary. This is not a generational shift. It’s a mindset shift.”

Tong agrees, observing a stylistic divide: “Clients choosing lab-grown diamonds often prefer modern, bolder designs, while those selecting natural coloured gems lean toward classic, intricate styles.”

The takeaway: These stones don’t just offer ethical sparkle – they’re reshaping the design language of fine jewellery itself.

A natural one-carat blue diamond can cost thousands of dollars. A lab-grown equivalent? Perhaps only a few hundred. 

Gemstone energy

Precious and semi-precious stones have long been regarded as channels for energy. Here’s how you can use them to bring a sense of balance to your 9-to-5.

Focus & mental clarity

Sapphire is often associated with wisdom, mental sharpness, and strategic thinking.

Stress relief

Rose quartz calms tension and supports a peaceful work environment.

Confidence & leadership

Ruby increases personal power, courage, and ambition. Carnelian motivates action, strengthens confidence and energises workplace enthusiasm.

Productivity

Citrine has been known as the “success stone” as it attracts abundance, inspires creativity, and fuels motivation.

Communication

Emeralds boost clear communication, diplomacy, and emotional intelligence while aquamarine supports truthfulness and calm communication in high-stress meetings.

PHOTOGRAPHY: JOEL LOW, ASSISTED BY: EDDIE TEO
STYLING: DARYLL ALEXIUS YEO, ASSISTED BY: HELAINE ERCIA
MAKEUP & HAIR: ALISON TAY USING DIOR BEAUTY & GOLDWELL
MODEL: IRA/MANNEQUIN