A growing trend in Korea’s jewelry market is the rise of lab-grown diamonds, which offer the same sparkle as natural diamonds but at a significantly lower price. This shift is catching the attention of more consumers, like a 42-year-old Seoul resident, who recently discovered the benefits of these diamonds during a shopping trip.
“I went to a jewelry shop with the intention of buying a diamond piece, but the owner showed me lab-grown diamonds,” said Seo, who preferred to remain anonymous. “I was amazed by the lower prices and the quality. I ended up buying earrings and a bracelet with lab-grown diamonds.”
Seo was delighted with her purchases, noting that the cost was much lower than her initial budget and that there were more design options to choose from. “I got various diamond pieces for much less than I expected, and now, people around me are asking about lab-grown diamonds. They also bought some and were very happy with their purchases,” Seo added.
Seo’s experience highlights a growing demand for lab-grown diamonds in Korea. These diamonds are created in laboratories under high temperatures and pressure, mimicking the natural process that forms diamonds in the earth. Despite being man-made, lab-grown diamonds are visually identical to natural ones. Only specialized equipment can tell the difference.
The appeal of lab-grown diamonds lies in their affordability, often costing as little as one-tenth the price of natural diamonds. This cost-effective alternative is gaining popularity, with more consumers choosing lab-grown diamonds as a way to purchase the gemstone they love without the hefty price tag.
Diamonds have long been Korea’s favorite gemstone. A July survey by Gallup Korea, which polled 1,777 people aged 13 and older, found that 59 percent of respondents preferred diamonds over other gems. Emeralds followed with 9 percent, while sapphires and pearls each garnered 7 percent, and rubies were at 6 percent.
Experts believe that lab-grown diamonds will continue to drive the popularity of diamonds in Korea, offering a more affordable option without sacrificing quality or beauty.
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