Where tradition meets innovation, Dublin's engagement ring preferences are witnessing a remarkable shift. At McGuire Diamonds we are at the forefront of this change, embracing lab-grown diamonds - a choice that mirrors the city's progressive spirit and commitment to sustainability.

The Science and Art Behind Lab-Grown Diamonds

Lab-grown diamonds aren't just a trend; they're a testament to human ingenuity. Created in state-of-the-art labs, these diamonds are formed under conditions that mimic the earth's natural diamond-creating process. The result? Diamonds that are physically, chemically, and optically identical to their mined counterparts, but with a significantly reduced environmental footprint.

Why Dublin is Turning to Lab-Grown Diamonds:

• Sustainability: As global awareness grows about the environmental impact of mining, Dubliners are increasingly seeking eco-friendly alternatives. Lab-grown diamonds offer a responsible choice without compromising on quality or beauty.

• Value and Affordability: In today’s economy, value is more important than ever. McGuire Diamonds offers lab-grown diamonds that provide the luxury of traditional diamonds at a more accessible price point.


In the current market, a 1 carat natural diamond with specifications of D colour, VS1 clarity, and an excellent cut is priced at approximately €7,000. In contrast, a lab-grown diamond of identical specifications - 1 carat, D colour, VS1 clarity, and excellent cut - is available at a significantly lower price of €900.

• A Nod to Innovation: Dublin's status as a European tech hub reflects in its residents' appreciation for technological advancements, including the sophisticated process of growing diamonds in a lab. 
  

CVD vs. HPHT Lab Grown Diamonds: What’s the Difference?

If you're interested in lab-grown diamonds, either as an owner or a potential buyer, understanding the methods used to create these gems is quite fascinating. Lab-grown diamonds are created through two primary processes: the High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) method and the Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD) method. Each method has its unique characteristics:

HPHT (High Pressure High Temperature) Method:

Process: This method mimics the natural conditions under which diamonds form beneath the Earth's crust. It involves subjecting a small diamond seed to extremely high pressure and temperature.

• Characteristics: HPHT diamonds are known for their exceptional colour quality. The process is well-suited for producing diamonds that rank high on the colour scale.
• Common Uses: Originally developed to improve the colour of natural diamonds, this method is now also used to create pure, high quality lab-grown diamonds.
  

CVD (Chemical Vapour Deposition) Method:

• Process: The CVD method involves breaking down molecules of a carbon rich gas, like methane, inside a chamber. The gas is heated, and carbon atoms are deposited onto a diamond seed, allowing the diamond to grow layer by layer.
• Characteristics: Diamonds produced via CVD typically have higher clarity than those produced by HPHT. This process allows for more control over the environment, leading to fewer defects.
• Common Uses: CVD is highly valued for its ability to produce diamonds that are well-suited for use in jewellery due to their clarity and quality.
  


Both High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) and Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD) methods are capable of producing 'D' colour grade diamonds, which are among the highest in quality. Generally, diamonds produced via HPHT tend to exhibit superior colour grades compared to those created through CVD. Conversely, CVD diamonds often boast higher clarity grades on average than those produced by the HPHT method.


• Lab vs Natural: At McGuire Diamonds, we've witnessed a significant transformation in consumer preferences. In the years 2023-2024, lab-grown diamonds have remarkably accounted for 70% of our total diamond ring sales, indicating a decisive shift from natural diamonds to these sustainable, lab-created gems.

Lab-Grown Diamond Demand Continues Its Meteoric Rise

The ascent of lab-grown diamonds in the market has been nothing short of extraordinary. Back in 2020, loose lab-grown diamond sales accounted for a significant 13.7% market share, a figure that was impressive at the time. However, this was only the beginning of their meteoric rise. Fast forward to 2022, and this figure has nearly tripled, reaching an astounding 33.8%. The most remarkable aspect of this growth trajectory is the sharp increase observed in a relatively short time span.

In January 2020, lab-grown diamonds held an 11.6% share of the market. By February 2023, this number skyrocketed to an incredible 46.6%. Within just three years, lab-grown diamonds have transitioned from occupying a modest tenth of the market to dominating nearly half of it. This rapid growth not only highlights the increasing consumer preference for these sustainable gems but also underscores a significant shift in the global diamond industry.

McGuire Diamonds: Pioneering in Quality and Design:

What sets McGuire Diamonds apart is our commitment to quality and bespoke design. Each engagement ring is a work of art, crafted to celebrate individual stories. Our designs are a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern aesthetics, tailored to your personal narrative.

Visit McGuire Diamonds

We invite you to experience the convergence of technology, art, and romance at McGuire Diamonds. Discover our range of lab-grown diamond engagement ring collection and see how we're redefining value and sustainability, just a stone's throw away from Dublin.

As Dublin grows and evolves, so do the choices of its people. McGuire Diamonds is proud to be part of this journey, offering lab-grown along with natural diamond engagement rings that are as unique and forward-thinking as the city itself. Join us in embracing a sustainable, value-driven future in fine jewellery.