Embracing Change: Why I’ve Started Working with Lab-Grown Diamonds

If you’ve been following my work for a while, you’ll know that I’m always inspired by nature — molten textures, organic shapes, and materials that tell a story. But sometimes the story changes, and recently, I’ve felt it was time to adapt again.

As many of you will have noticed, the price of gold (and precious metals in general) has been skyrocketing. Silver, platinum, palladium — they’ve all been climbing, and gold especially has reached incredible highs. For an independent designer like me, that presents a challenge: how to continue creating beautiful, heirloom-quality jewellery that remains accessible and fair in price.

I’ve always believed that creativity flourishes in moments of change, so rather than compromise on quality or scale back designs, I’ve chosen to pivot — and explore a material that offers a balance of beauty and value.

Enter: Lab-Grown Diamonds

Lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds — chemically, physically, and optically identical to mined ones. The only difference is how they’re formed. Instead of being created deep within the earth over millions of years, these stones are grown in highly controlled laboratory environments using advanced technology that replicates the natural process.

Each of the stones I’ve selected is certified by the International Gemological Institute (IGI), assuring their authenticity and quality. And I have to say — they’re absolutely stunning.

Why Lab-Grown Works for Me (and Maybe You?!)

Using lab-grown diamonds allows me to offer showstopping diamonds — with the same sparkle and durability — at a more attainable price point. It means I can continue designing bold, sculptural, handcrafted jewellery without being limited by soaring material costs.

I still appreciate the history, story and character behind mined diamonds but offering lab-grown diamonds as well offers my clientele choice.

The First Designs

The first pieces featuring lab-grown diamonds are already here:

– My Tamar Cauldron ring, reimagined in platinum and now set with a 2ct lab-grown diamond — a real showstopper.

– A molten bubble cocktail ring in 9ct gold, designed for those who love statement sparkle.

– The boulder ring, featuring a beautifully proportioned 1ct stone.

– And a delicate bubble ring — my twist on a classic with just the right amount of character.

These designs mark the start of an exciting new chapter for me and for Erin Cox Jewellery — one that keeps craftsmanship, ethics, and individuality at the heart of everything I do.

I’d love to know what you think about this direction. Whether you’ve already fallen for a lab-grown diamonds or are curious to learn more, pop into the shop or drop me a message — I’m always happy to chat sparkle.

✨

Erin x