Are lab-grown gemstones the eco-friendly, sustainable way to go about in jewelry?

Mining gemstones, like diamonds, imposes harmful impacts on the environment, especially when it's not well-regulated.

That's why the jewelry industry is taking steps to address such valid concerns. Take a look at one of the world's biggest and most popular jewelers, Pandora. In 2021, it ditched selling mined diamonds in favor of lab-grown ones, which it said, will be made with 60% renewable energy on average.

According to a 2021 report, the Copenhagen-based company said it expected their new diamonds to be made with 100% renewable energy upon its 2022 global launch, with the brand promising to use recycled gold and silver in its designs by 2025.

In the Philippines, Davao-based jeweler Pristine Paradigm is among the pioneers to make a case for sustainable luxury jewelry by using premium quality lab-grown gemstones.

Pristine Paradigm co-founder Katriana "Yana" Batu always had the twin passion for jewelry and sustainability, tracing back to her childhood when her grandmother's love for jewelry inspired her.

Discovering the world of lab-grown gemstones was a turning point for her, as it helped align her commitment to sustainability and entrepreneurial spirit.

For Yana, lab-grown gemstones are at par with the quality of natural gemstones, making them a competitive alternative for those looking for sustainable jewelry.

"They're physically, chemically, and optically the same," Yana told GMA News Online.

And since lab-grown gemstones are developed in controlled environments, it often results in "better color consistency than natural gemstones, and in turn better clarity and brilliance."

Yana also pointed out to the lower environmental impact of lab-grown gemstones compared to mined counterparts because there are no "no large-scale mining, habitat destruction, pollution, and the risk of unethical mining."

And because lab-grown gemstones are "significantly cheaper to make," they are more attainable to average consumers, allowing for even more sustainability.

She admits lab-grown gemstones have limitations too, such as not having the distinct character and unique patterns formed in natural gemstones.

"Lab-grown gems tend to have fewer inclusions and more uniformity," she said.

While acceptance of lab-grown gemstones has grown through the years, it's met some resistance from consumers and jewelry enthusiasts, who still prefer natural stones due to tradition or personal preference.

"The natural formation process and the idea of a gem being millions of years old add sentimental value that lab-grown gems can't replicate," she said.

But no matter. According to Yana, "Lab-grown gemstones remain a compelling choice due to their ethical, environmental, and cost benefits."

"We've heard countless stories from our customers who are grateful for the opportunity to purchase their dream jewelry for engagements, celebrations, and special occasions without compromising on quality and having to spend a fortune on a beautiful ring," she said.

"This accessibility allows them to invest their remaining funds in other important areas of their lives," she added."

Pristine Paradigm's commitment to sustainability goes beyond its lab-grown gemstones, as the brand leans on environmentally conscious practices.

"All of our packaging, from the tape we use, mailer bags, wrapping paper, and hard boxes, are environment-friendly, either reusable or plant-based," Yana said.

Their operations are not yet run by renewable energy, but Yana said they plan to look into this alternative soon.

 In the meantime, other efforts, such as tree planting and plastic waste recycling, are being made to balance out our carbon footprint.

 "We've also pledged to plant one tree per order since the beginning of our business, which has resulted in the planting of hundreds of trees around the Davao province," she added.

Since Pristine Paradigm's inception in 2023, the brand has already planted 800 trees so far in Davao. 

"In line with these efforts, we've also pledged to plant one tree per order since the beginning of our business, which has resulted in the planting of hundreds of trees around the Davao province," she added.

Since Pristine Paradigm's inception in 2023, the brand has already planted some 800 trees in Davao. 

Pristine Paradigm offers various jewelry selections, from rings to earrings, bracelets, and necklaces. The price starts at P3,000.

— LA, GMA Integrated News