Diamonds are a girl's best friend, and when you can get a diamond at one-third the price, it's time to stock up on the latest designs.
The collection learns from the philosophy of street art that questions and challenges the status quo where every piece of art is a canvas of expression. This inclusive ethos of art and beauty are a starting point for a new vision. Masterpieces in splashes of bright colours that you can treasure forever are the hallmark of the Vandals collection. Vandals introduces a new outlook and perspective to what the future of jewellery design could be. An outcome of creative vision and design philosophy, the focus is to engineer jewellery with gemstones made by way of human genius.
The collection learns from the philosophy of street art that questions and challenges the status quo where every piece of art is a canvas of expression. This inclusive ethos of art and beauty are a starting point for a new vision. Masterpieces in splashes of bright colours that you can treasure forever are the hallmark of the Vandals collection. Vandals introduce a new outlook and perspective to what the future of jewellery design could be. An outcome of creative vision and design philosophy, the focus is to engineer jewellery with gemstones made by way of human genius.
Vandana Jagwani weighs in on all that you need to know about the collection and relevance of lab-grown diamond in the jewellery industry.
Tell us a little about lab-grown diamonds & how are they created?
Diamonds are formed by a complicated process naturally. From forming deep in the earth’s crust in extreme conditions to available for mining only when volcanoes erupt and bring the diamonds within 100 feet of the surface.
Carbon seeds from pre-existing diamonds are employed to imitate the underground formation of the gems. “Cultured” or “engineered” diamonds are created under controlled conditions, unlike naturally grown diamonds which are produced using heavy machinery, explosives, hydraulic equipment, and other harsh methods.
What makes lab-grown diamonds different from naturally occurring diamonds?
I understand that it may be confusing to identify with the idea of lab-grown diamonds. But don’t worry, they are the same. The only difference is the location where it grows. What goes into making lab-grown diamonds is the cutting-edge technology which replicates the exact same conditions of the earth from which a diamond naturally grows. These diamonds are physically, chemically and optically the same as mined diamonds. So overall, nothing other than the origin is different.
Things to keep in mind/ lookout for while buying lab-grown diamonds?
The same things you look for in natural diamonds—the 4Cs : carat, clarity, cut, and colour. But, be sure you are buying it from the right source and wear it with pride.
In addition to the 4Cs, you need to keep in mind the foundation you want to use for your diamond as well as what other pieces of jewellery you want to pair it with. More than anything, it should all be based on what the wearer wants.
A few tips to maintain the shine of a lab-grown diamonds?
As I said, they are no different from natural diamonds. So, you don’t need to take any extra measures and regular servicing and cleaning should do the job just right.
What is the approximate price of a one-carat lab-grown diamond?
When we think of diamonds, one of the first things that come into our mind is how lavish they are. A certified 1.00-carat size diamond with VVS2 clarity in a round brilliant cut could be purchased at one third the price of its mined counterpart. Although the variety and market availability of the diamond selected does play a significant role in pricing. Nonetheless, no longer will buying diamonds be something that burns a hole in our pockets..
Do lab-grown diamonds look as authentic as naturally occurring diamonds? As they are diamonds as well, there is no question about them being authentic - be it natural or lab-grown.
Do you think the future of the jewellery industry is moving towards lab-grown diamonds? If yes, why?
Yes definitely, it’s brilliant how the millennial mindset works and more than anything, it’s admirable and smart. As we get the same product for a lower price, why should we not move towards it?
Pros & Cons of lab-grown diamonds?
The biggest plus point is that it is competitively priced. It's also sustainable and more environmentally kind when compared to that of the naturally occurring ones. Since they are the same, I don’t think there would be any cons.
Will lab grown diamonds be replaced with normal diamonds for wedding rings?
I believe it’s already happening in the industry. It all depends on what stage you are on. Traditionally, gold and diamonds were the kinds of jewellery largely bought. Something like wedding bands is personal and close to one’s heart so it will take time to get a hundred per cent there, but I am positive we are on our way.
Being one of the pioneer's in the space of lab- grown diamond jewellery, tell us what inspired you to work on the idea?
We all have been living in this world where we believe that diamonds are hard to attain. When I was studying diamonds a couple of years ago, I realised there was no difference between naturally grown and lab grown diamonds. That’s when I knew that this is something that needs to come out and I wanted my consumers to know about this.
The inspiration behind your newest collection?
This collection is all about bringing a contemporary twist to traditional jewellery. Before anything, we bring evergreen pieces into the modern world because jewellery has to be forever.
My love for contemporary art and philosophy has driven me to look toward Van Gogh, Banksy, Steve Jobs, and Yayoi Kasuma for inspiration for Vandals. I also take inspiration from street artist idols.
No matter naturally occurring, or lab grown, colour has always been special to me. And that is why we also have some rare jewels made in pink and blue diamonds.
Do you think the future of the jewellery industry is moving towards lab grown diamonds? If yes, why?
Yes definitely, it’s brilliant how the millennial mindset works and more than anything, it’s admirable and smart. As we get the same product for a lower price, why should we not move towards it?
What do you have lined up for the future of lab grown diamond jewellery?
Lots of expansion, we are in talks of collaborations, going international and we are already preparing for another launch for this collection. We are very excited about the journey ahead.
Vandals is ready be a game changer in the jewellery industry, are you?