Illustrious Infinity Diamond Pendant 3/8 Carat Total Weight

Natural vs. Lab-Created Diamonds

We carry both natural and lab-created diamonds, so you can pick whichever fits your priorities. Natural diamonds formed underground over billions of years. Every stone is one of a kind, with its own character and story. Lab-created diamonds are grown in a controlled setting using the same conditions that create natural diamonds. Chemically and visually, they're identical to mined stones.

Both types get graded on the same 4Cs scale (Cut, Color, Clarity, Carat), and both sparkle the same way. The decision usually comes down to what matters most to you: the history and rarity of a natural diamond, or the value and traceability of a lab-grown one. Either way, you're getting a real diamond.

• Natural Diamonds: Formed over billions of years, rare, each stone is unique
• Lab-Created Diamonds: Same physical properties, traceable origin, better price point
• Grading: Both graded identically using Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat
• Bottom Line: Pick based on what matters to you, not what anyone else thinks

Popular Diamond Shapes for Pendants

Round brilliant diamonds are the most popular choice for pendants due to their exceptional sparkle and timeless appeal. However, fancy shapes like princess, cushion, and pear offer unique character. Pear and marquise shapes create an elongating effect that's particularly flattering.

• Round Brilliant: Maximum sparkle, classic elegance
• Princess Cut: Modern, geometric appeal
• Cushion Cut: Vintage-inspired, romantic look
• Pear Shape: Elegant, elongating effect
• Heart Shape: Romantic symbolism, perfect for gifts

Diamond Pendant Setting Styles

The setting style dramatically affects how your diamond appears. Solitaire settings allow maximum light entry for brilliance, while halo settings create the illusion of a larger center stone. Bezel settings offer modern protection and a contemporary look.

• Solitaire: Timeless, showcases diamond's beauty
• Halo: Adds size and sparkle, excellent value
• Bezel: Modern, secure, sleek appearance
• Three-Stone: Symbolic, represents past, present, future

Choosing the Right Chain Length

Chain length affects where your pendant sits and how it complements your neckline. A 16-18 inch chain positions the pendant at the collarbone, perfect for showcasing the diamond. Longer chains (20-24 inches) create a more casual, layered look.

• 16 inches: Sits at the collarbone, classic placement
• 18 inches: Most versatile, works with most necklines
• 20 inches: Below collarbone, elegant drape
• 24 inches: Opera length, great for layering

Selecting Diamond Quality for Pendants

For pendants, you can typically go slightly lower on clarity since the diamond is viewed from a distance. VS2 to SI1 clarity offers excellent value with eye-clean appearance. Focus more on cut quality, as this most affects the diamond's sparkle.

• Cut: Prioritize excellent or very good cut grades
• Clarity: VS2-SI1 appears eye-clean in pendants
• Color: G-I appears white in most settings
• Carat: Choose based on your budget and desired impact

Diamond Pendants as Gifts

Diamond pendants make exceptional gifts for any occasion. Their versatility, timeless appeal, and symbolic significance make them perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, and holidays. A quality diamond pendant becomes a treasured heirloom passed through generations.

• Anniversaries: Symbolizes enduring love
• Birthdays: April birthstone, but loved year-round
• Graduations: Marks achievement and new beginnings
• Mother's Day: Timeless gift she'll treasure
• Valentine's Day: Classic romantic gesture