Looking for a large diamond ring without the hefty price tag? A composite diamond ring could be the answer. These showstopping engagement rings offer the same sparkle and glamour as a large diamond, usually at a lower cost.
What Are Composite Diamonds?
Composite diamonds are small diamonds that have been carefully placed together to create a larger-looking diamond. They may be set in a way that makes them appear as one stone or arranged in a design to maximize their beauty or sparkle.
Jeweler Rahul Sacheti explains that composite diamonds are often set within a ring in just the right way “to convey a larger appearance.” These jewels may also be glued together to form doublets or triplets that are then set the same as a single, larger gemstone would be.
Meet the Expert
Rahul Sacheti is an experienced custom jeweler from M.S. International, Inc. and RS1 Jewelry, Ltd. He is a second-generation diamond wholesaler.
Keep reading to learn more about composite diamonds and what to look for when shopping for one.
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Pros and Cons of Composite Diamonds
Aside from their attractive cost, the design possibilities withcompositediamonds are nearly unlimited.They are perfect for creating intricate details. “Theclustered designsare always unique and allow for more artistic expression,” Sacheti says.
Still, there are negative aspects. First, the potentially high repair costs for a broken composite diamond can negate the savings on the piece, and the future value of acompositediamond ring is not as reliable as a standard-size diamond.
What to Look for in a Composite Diamond
If you are considering a composite diamond, here are a few questions and answers to think about while shopping for an engagement ring.
- Arecompositediamonds more affordable than traditional diamonds?Yes, they are usually much more affordable than a full, large diamond, as it costs less to create designs out of multiple small diamonds. However, keep in mindcompositediamond rings typically requiremaintenance and repairs over time.
- Do composite diamonds hold their value? “Given the unregulated and emotional nature of the jewelry industry, it is tough to forecast the value of traditional diamonds, let alone composite diamonds," Sacheti says. "Their value retention as compared to traditional diamonds is nowhere close. However, the components and material values still may allow particular pieces to retain more of their value due to demand."
- What details should be considered with acompositediamond? Ask your jewelry if there is glass filling in any of the stones—something that's apparent when the ring is examined with a jeweler’s loupe. The same holds true for bluff stones (larger diamonds with some imperfections). "Here you are looking for inclusion characteristics rather than metalwork joining the stones," says Sacheti. "One can see the areas where the stones are glued together.”
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How to Care for a Composite Diamond Ring
Cleaning a composite diamond ring is a cinch. Like a normal diamond, be sure to clean it with dishwashing soap and warm water for best results. Storing it in a cloth-lined jewelry box is ideal when you're not wearing it. When shopping for acompositediamond ring, consider the future repair costs. "Finding the appropriate diamonds to replace a missing stone in acompositering can be costly and difficult," says Sacheti. If your ring involves an invisible setting, you can only repair the piece with notched diamonds. These are "not kept in big supply by diamond wholesalers," says Sacheti.
Additionally, if your original ring uses bluff or glued diamonds (which are cheaper than larger diamonds), the repair will be pricier than acompositediamond ring with another setting technique.
Ahead, scroll through eight stunning composite diamond rings.
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Macy's Diamond Cluster Engagement Ring
Why go for one diamond on an engagement ring when you can enjoy the shimmer of several? The diamond-laden, round centerpiece of the white gold ring is accentuated with diamonds down the sides of the band.
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Zales Composite Diamond Double Starburst Frame Engagement Ring
This radiant double starburst engagement ring is a dazzling option for brides seeking major sparkle. The diamond halo design consists of round- and baguette-cut diamonds on a polished 10k gold band.
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Zales Composite Diamond Multi-Row White Gold Chevron Ring
The bling on this ring cannot be denied. The chevron-shaped, composite diamond ring has a white gold band and features row after row of baguette-cut diamonds set in channels in an alternating pattern.
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JTV Candlelight Diamonds 10K Yellow Gold Dome Ring
This incredibly unique ring has two rows of dark diamonds. Between them, the yellow gold band branches off and twists around three other layers of these special diamonds.
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La4ve Diamonds White Gold Composite Diamond Bridal Ring Set
This sparkling matching engagement ring and wedding band set from La4ve Diamonds brings on the pizazz in a big way. Composite diamonds are plentiful on these rhodium-plated white gold rings.
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Blue Nile Round and Baguette Diamond Crossover Fashion Ring
Dare to be different with this stylish diamond crossover ring that's both architectural and elegant. The swirling design is a captivating option for brides seeking a dose of glamour.
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Angara Composite Diamond Halo Engagement Ring
Let your inner sophisticate shine through with this gorgeous engagement ring consisting of nine brilliant round diamonds on a 14k white gold band. Leaf-shaped cutwork on the underside of the ring and a partial diamond band further elevate the design.
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Jared 3 Carat Diamond Engagement Ring
Between the striking halo design and brilliant center, this contemporary engagement ring exudes elegance and sophistication. The 14k white gold band is encompassed by even more diamonds for a standout finish.