u/Explanation-Vus641

Hi everyone,

I’m heading to a jewelry store next week to start shopping for a 3-carat lab-grown diamond engagement ring. I understand there’s a big range when it comes to quality and pricing, so I’m trying to get a realistic baseline before I walk in.

For a 3-carat lab-grown diamond in the good to excellent range (cut/clarity/color), what price range should I generally expect for just the center stone?

The jeweler is a small, family-owned shop and comes highly recommended by a friend who recently bought a natural diamond there. I know the setting and any side stones will be extra. I’m mainly trying to understand what’s fair for the main diamond so I can compare and avoid any surprises. I trust the recommendation, but I’d still like to do my own homework.

If this isn’t the right place to ask, feel free to point me in a better direction.

Thanks in advance!

I went with a diamond alternative a few years ago and at the time it just made sense, we had other priorities and it felt like the practical choice. Honestly I have zero regrets.
The stone still looks clear and bright to me and nobody as ever questioned it unless I bring it up myself.

I do occasionally have a passing thought about resale value but then I remind myself I'm never selling my ring, so what does it actually matter?

For those who went the alternative route, still happy with the decision?