Caring for Your Brilliance
How do I care for my lab-grown diamond jewelry?
While diamonds are the hardest material on Earth, their sparkle can be dimmed by everyday oils, lotions, and dust.
To keep your piece looking its best, we recommend:
- The "Last On, First Off" Rule: Apply perfumes, hairsprays, and lotions before putting on your jewelry to prevent residue buildup.
- Mindful Wear: Remove your jewelry before high-impact activities, swimming in chlorinated pools, or using harsh household chemicals, which can affect the integrity of the metal setting.
- Safe Storage: Store your pieces individually in a soft-lined pouch or jewelry box. Because diamonds are so hard, they can easily scratch other gemstones or the metal of your other jewelry.
What is the best way to clean my jewelry at home?
Maintaining your diamond’s fire is simple and can be done with items you likely already have:
- Soak: Place your jewelry in a small bowl of warm water mixed with a few drops of mild dish soap for 15–20 minutes.
- Brush: Gently scrub the stone and the setting—especially the underside—with a soft-bristled toothbrush to remove trapped oils.
- Rinse & Dry: Rinse thoroughly under warm running water (ensure the drain is closed!) and pat dry with a lint-free microfiber cloth.
Should I have my jewelry professionally serviced?
Yes. To ensure the longevity of your piece, we recommend a professional inspection once a year. A jeweler can verify that the prongs are secure and provide a deep ultrasonic or steam cleaning to restore the diamond to its original showroom brilliance
Additional FAQs
What exactly is a lab-grown diamond?
A lab-grown diamond is a genuine diamond. It is chemically, physically, and optically identical to a mined diamond. The only difference is its point of origin; rather than being extracted from the earth, it is grown in a controlled laboratory environment that replicates the high-pressure, high-heat conditions of the Earth’s mantle.
Are lab-grown diamonds "real" diamonds?
Yes. They are 100% carbon, just like mined diamonds. They are not "simulants" like Cubic Zirconia or Moissanite. Even a professional jeweler cannot tell the difference without specialized equipment, as they possess the same hardness (10 on the Mohs scale) and brilliance.
Why should I choose lab-grown for the Illi Collection?
Choosing lab-grown allows us to prioritize Ethical Integrity and Sustainability. Our diamonds are guaranteed conflict-free and have a significantly lower environmental impact. Additionally, this choice allows us to offer larger, higher-clarity stones for the same investment you would make in a smaller, mined diamond.
How are these diamonds graded?
Every diamond in the Illi Collection is held to the same rigorous standards as mined diamonds. They are graded on the 4Cs: Cut, Clarity, Color, and Carat weight. Many of our larger stones come with certifications from leading gemological institutes.
Do lab-grown diamonds last as long as mined ones?
Absolutely. Because they share the exact same physical properties as mined diamonds, they are the hardest material on Earth. They will never cloud, scratch, or lose their fire, making them perfect heirlooms for the next generation.
Quick Facts: The Illi Advantage
- 100% Conflict-Free: Guaranteed ethical sourcing for total peace of mind.
- Identical Brilliance: Chemically and physically identical to mined diamonds.
- Sustainable Luxury: A significantly smaller carbon and environmental footprint.
- Superior Value: Access higher-quality stones and more intricate designs.